Six new Kaihoe join AUT's Eke Tangaroa
Auckland University of Technology (AUT) proudly welcomed six new Kaihoe (appointees) to its Eke Tangaroa programme, a vital strategic initiative focused on increasing the presence and success of Māori and Pacific academics within the University.
The appointment of these six exceptional individuals marks a significant step in the programme’s 11th year, bringing a wealth of knowledge and a strong commitment to their respective fields, while joining a growing network of Māori and Pacific academics at AUT.
The new Kaihoe were introduced at a pōwhiri on 18 February, where AUT leaders and fellow staff members formally welcomed them alongside their whānau.
In his address during the pōwhiri, Vice-Chancellor Toeolesulusulu Professor Damon Salesa expressed his excitement about the programme’s future.
“It is a great privilege to welcome these outstanding individuals into the Eke Tangaroa programme. Their diverse experiences and expertise will significantly enrich our academic community, ensuring that AUT remains at the forefront of Māori and Pacific scholarship.”
He also acknowledged the leadership of Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic Professor Wendy Lawson, whose commitment to the programme has fostered an environment for the growth of early-career Māori and Pacific academics.
Additionally, Professor Georgina Tuari Stewart was recognised for her leadership as Kaiurungi of the programme, securing opportunities that empower Kaihoe to advance their research.
“The Marsden successes, awards, fellowships, and achievements attained under her leadership have elevated the programme and created pathways for new generations of Māori and Pacific researchers to excel,” says Professor Salesa.
The 2024 Recruitment Round Welcomes:
- Dr. Jack Barrett (Ngāpuhi) – Marketing & International Business, Business School
- Sam Guy (Ngāti Maru) – Psychology, School of Clinical Science
- Daniel (Taniela) Vaipulu (Tonga) – Computer Science & Software Engineering, School of Engineering, Computer and Mathematical Sciences
- Dr. Alvina Pauuvale (Tonga) – Pacific Health Programme, PHIS
- Fetaui Iosefo (Samoa) – School of Education
- Dr. Tau (Tuputau) Lelaulu (Samoa) – School of Future Environments
Note: Sam Guy, Daniel Vaipulu and Fetaui Iosefo are all within 3 months of submitting their doctorates for examination.
Additionally, Eke Tangaroa welcomes a new Kaihoe Atawhai:
- Sione Tekiteki (Tonga) – Law School
“The journey of these Kaihoe is not just a personal achievement; it is a shared success built on the foundation of generations before them. Through their contributions, we are advancing research and scholarship at AUT and shaping the future of the communities they serve,” says Professor Salesa.
Launched in 2015, the Eke Tangaroa programme plays a transformative role in cultivating early-career Māori and Pacific academic leaders who contribute to their respective fields and offer unique perspectives that influence teaching, research, and leadership across AUT.