Pacific achievement, resilience, and cultural pride took centre stage at the Pacific Graduation Celebration, held at Te Puna in Mt Albert on Friday 27 March.
The event brought together 35 graduands and their aiga (families), with some family members travelling from overseas to share in the milestone.
Senior leadership, heads of schools, and kaimahi (staff) from across the institute also attended, highlighting the collective support behind Pacific ākonga (student) success.
Pacific Student Council representative Natara Lata Pimoe guided the evening’s programme as MC which was opened 
by a powerful message from Student Experience Partner and pastor Lepua Tu Nuualiitia, who reflected on the determination required to reach graduation.
“You will only possess what you’re willing to fight for, and you are all a testimony to that saying,” Lepua told graduands.
“You came here not knowing what it would be like, but you had a dream and aspirations. Now you’ve done it. You’ve reached the finish line.”
Mr Nuualiitia also acknowledged the broader legacy of Pacific communities in Aotearoa.
“You being here continues the legacy of our parents and people who migrated here from the islands… We are pioneers of our own destiny.”
In his welcome address, MIT & Unitec Executive Director Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga highlighted the importance of identity and belonging within tertiary education.
“Understand where you came from and your ancestors who migrated here,” Peseta says.
“The system is not always designed for your needs, but our staff have worked hard to help you and ensure you belong here. So we honour your courage, your resilience, and your identity.”
Graduands were presented with their certificates and specially made lei (necklaces), marking both academic achievement and cultural celebration. Many took the opportunity to thank those who supported them along the way.
Diploma in Business ākonga Salome Tatafu paid tribute to her family, including her sister who travelled from Samoa, and the Pacific Centre for its holistic support.
“Not only did they support me in my studies, but they also always made me feel so welcome, gave me space to study and made sure I had food to eat,” Salome says.
Keynote speaker Maloni Tuitupou, a Unitec alumnus and current Doctor of Computing candidate, shared his journey and research focused on developing a cybersecurity framework for Tonga. He encouraged graduands to draw strength from Pacific values.
“Pacific people are grounded in the values of community, resilience, respect and service. These values are not separate from our culture,” Maloni says.
“We face so many challenges, but you must believe in yourselves. Life is not about your shortcomings—it’s about not giving up and keeping on going.”
The event was coordinated by senior lecturer Ioane Aleke Fa’avae, who acknowledged the collective effort of Pacific staff across the institute.
Interim Pacific Centre Manager Sooalo Daisy Bentley-Gray closed the evening with gratitude and recognition.
“You all contributed to the success of our annual event and we are grateful,” Daisy says.
“We acknowledge all our graduands and your families for your success. Malo le tauivi, malo le finau, faafetai ma ia manuia (Well done on your effort. Wishing you success and blessings).”
For our Pacific whānau, the celebration was a powerful affirmation of identity, community, and the next generation of Pacific leaders.
A total of 190 Pacific graduands are set to walk the stage to receive their qualification this week at Unitec Graduation on 31 March and 1 April at the Aotea Centre. They join almost 2000 other graduands from across the institute.
The list of Pacific Graduands for 2026
Brody Harris – NZ Certificate in Skills for Living for Supported Learners
Alex Watene – Master of Creative Practice
Salome Tatafu – Diploma in Business
Kaufoou Mafi Joanne – Certificate in Career Pathways
Folauhola Kanatea-Ofa – Bachelor of Business
Aukuso Mauga – Architecture bachelor
lovina Itiri Vina – Diploma in Veterinary Nursing
Samiuela Teulilo – Bachelor of Applied Technology (Automotive)
Shanel Prasad – Electrical Engineering Pre trade
Karoline Patelesio – Bachelor of Social Practice
Kise Fasa – Bachelor of Business (Management)
‘Aivi Katalina Fifita – Graduate Diploma in Business (Human Resources)
Viliami Fifita – Diploma in Construction
Taniela Paea Nela – Master of Applied Practice
Falaniko Leiataua – Bachelor of Business (Human Resources)
Alexander Tofilau – Bachelor of Nursing
Nitendra Nitendra – Certificate in Health and Wellbeing
Matagi Anita – Certificate in Mental Health and Addiction
John Randolf – Diploma in Business
Priya Ranjani – Master of Applied Business (Supply Chain & Logistics)
Sam Masimalo – Bachelor of Nursing
Asinate Tuifua Nate – Bachelor of Social Practice
Siola’a Tolu – Certificate in Health and Wellbeing
Grace McCormick – Bachelor of Nursing
Queeny Ale – Certificate in Health and Wellbeing
Sailauama Cheryl Talamaivao – Master of Applied Practice (Hons)
Tofilau Lui – Bachelor of Nursing
Emori Wainiqolo – Bachelor of Nursing
Marcel Teraimana – Postgraduate Diploma Applied Technologies
Melaia Ledua – NZ Certificate Electrical (L3)
Samantha Latu – Bachelor of Social Practice
Naera-Shaye – Haronga Certificate in Carpentry (L3)
Moreen Kaur – Maureen Bachelor of Accounting
Leilani-Grace Tonu’u – Bachelor of Performing and Screen Arts (Dance)
Sylvester Pat – Bachelor of Engineering Tech (Civil)
Anita Matagi – Anita Certificate in Mental Health and Addiction
Well done -congratulations to all of you.