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Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

At Unitec we see the value in diversity, equity and inclusion

Nobody is one-dimensional – there are many sides to each of us. That’s what makes us so unique. It’s these differences that make Unitec such a truly unique work and study environment – vibrant, innovative, highly productive and bursting with creativity.

Harnessing the benefits of diversity requires an inclusive, flexible and equitable working and learning environment; one that encourages and values difference and embraces diverse perspectives.

We are all responsible for cultivating an environment that recognises the value in our differences and uses them to achieve the best possible educational, business and community outcomes.

There are a number of diversity and inclusion initiatives in place at Unitec to support staff and students:

Priority Group Kaimahi Leadership Scholarship Programme 2025

Celebrating the development of Māori, Pacific and Disabled/Neurodivergent leadership in tertiary education, these equity scholarships will provide opportunities for advanced professional leadership development. The scholarships are designed to recognise and support our priority group kaimahi with leadership potential, and reflects our commitment to attracting, retaining and growing capability to support and enable the success of priority group ākonga.

This year’s recipients are:

  • Kaimahi Māori Scholarship

Blair Sorensen – Secondary School & Community Senior Liaison, Unitec Pathways College, Unitec
Diane Tamati – Academic Development Lecturer (Māori), Māori Success, Unitec

  • Pacific Kaimahi Scholarship

Radhika Kumar – Head of Health & Counselling, School of Health & Counselling, MIT
Rokosiga Morrison – Pacific Success Navigator, Pacific Success, Unitec
Liz Keneti – Head of Student Experience & Success, Student Experience and Success, MIT

  • Disabled and Neurodivergent Kaimahi Scholarship

Ruth Laing – Academic Development Lecturer, Student Success, Unitec

Diversity & Inclusion Policies & Procedures

Diversity & Inclusion Development Opportunities

Staff & Organisational Support Networks 

  • ALLY Network – is made up of gay, straight, cis and diverse gendered staff and students who support building an inclusive working and learning environment for all.
  • Unitec Multifaith Chaplaincy Service – provides an inclusive and holistic approach to spirituality.  We support all people of all faiths, or none.  Our chaplains are non-judgemental of personal lifestyles and are there to assist everyone – students and staff.
  • Unitec Muslims Club – for both staff and students.  It aims to advocate for and increase awareness of the Muslim community at Unitec; create a support network for Muslim staff and students that fosters inclusivity and engagement; and strengthen the Club’s relationship with Unitec and its wider community.  Contact Mohammad Sarker or Norasieh Md Amin for more information.
  • Māori Staff Network/Te Roopu Mataara – contact the Maia team.
  • Pacific Staff Network – contact the Pacific Centre. 
  • Puukenga – provides a space for all staff and students, all are welcome here.  This whare operates under a kaupapa Māori korowai and is situated next to the wharekai Manaaki.  You are welcome to have your lunch there, make yourself a cup of tea, or play the guitars in the atrium.  You can also hang out by the puna, sit on a log next to the Pa Harakeke or simply just take some time to sit and reflect by Ngākau Māhaki our wharenui.
  • Women@Unitec – contact Women@unitec.ac.nz