She is inspiring a new generation of passionate, reflective, and work-ready nurses.

“She makes me want to come to every class … helps me stay focused with amazing stories”

Hiria Tumoana is an icon in the Māori world for her life-time commitment to, and achievements in the revitalisation and teaching of the Māori language.

“Whaea Hiria is one of my greatest luminaries and I will forever be grateful for all the teachings and learnings she has given and still continues to give me on a daily basis.”

Joseph has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to teaching that makes a difference for the delivery of anatomy and physiology, radiology, and clinical anatomy programmes at Unitec.

“As a colleague, he is fully supportive of the team, working closely to ensure their success.”

With over 20 years experience in vocational training, Poppy believes that education is about transforming lives, especially for Māori, Pacific, neurodivergent and disabled learners.

“I was real nervous to start, and not sure if I could do it, but I have really been supported by Poppy.”

She builds capability by connecting both the mind and the heart of the learning environment so that ākonga find themselves and thrive in a system that can be challenging.

“Claire exudes enthusiasm and passion for learning and teaching; she seeks new ways of working and… helping others gain confidence in their teaching ability, to engage in new ways of learning.”

Described as “absolutely passionate and enthusiastic about her topics”, three core values guide her teaching philosophy: build a strong foundation; teach with identity and integrity; and be student-centric.

“Her collaborative leadership approach and focus on student-centric learning inspire colleagues and students to achieve their fullest potential.”

John is an outstanding practitioner in aviation training, employing highly innovative and unique teaching methodologies to ensure every learner’s needs are met.

“…a generous and empathetic teacher who can readily draw on his own experiences as a learner…”.

This highly collaborative team harnessed their collective expertise and networks to establish the first university-based undergraduate pathway into addiction practice.

“…[they] made me feel culturally safe in the space and that Māori approaches and models are valued in the mental health and addiction space.”

He is truly a phenomenal educator who champions the Pacific voice and continues to grow staff capability and capacity to empower and support Pacific learners.

“Jone's unwavering support and dedication helped me navigate difficult times and complete my degree.”

Dr Phil Borell makes an outstanding contribution to the emerging dialogue and teaching pedagogy that blends Mātauranga Māori with sporting pursuits within Aotearoa New Zealand.

“Phil uses his own work with Polynesian experiences within professional Rugby League as a platform to interact with students and interweaves this with his cultural knowledge... .a prime example of a successful, inspirational, and modern educator.”

Kelli’s work is about being an agent of change for Aotearoa New Zealand.

“Kelli is an excellent advocate for ensuring that Te Tiriti o Waitangi is embedded in Otago Polytechnic and beyond. She is a tireless and positive promoter of kaupapa Māori delivery to support Māori success.”