Division of Health - University of Waikato

18/06/2026

Waikato Hospital Deputy Chief Nurse Noel Watson has been awarded an honorary associate professorship by The University of Waikato, recognising his contribution to nursing, research and leadership.

“I’ve essentially been a perpetual student all my life,” Noel says – and that commitment shows in the impact he’s had on patients, whānau and the nursing profession.

From research in cardiac arrest recovery to supporting the next generation of nurses, Noel’s work continues to shape how care is delivered across our health system.

This is recognition of a career built on compassion, persistence and a genuine commitment to doing better – for patients and the people who care for them.

Congratulations, Noel 👏

19/04/2026

“Growth often comes from stepping into the unknown. Saying yes to opportunities even when we’re not completely sure where it will take us”.

This was a learning shared by Ben Bidois, speaking at one of our graduation ceremonies last week.

Ben graduated with a Master of Health, Sport and Human Performance and is going on to PhD studies, looking at conscious and unconscious learning of motor tasks. Ben is currently a Technical Officer in our School of Sport and Human Movement.

It’s been a big year for Ben! His first-ever academic publication is now out in the European Journal of Applied Physiology – “Economy benefits of running in advanced footwear technology shoes remain with plantarflexion fatigue.”

And he has been selected for the 2026 Athletics NZ Oceania Championships squad, lining up in the 1500m.

Congratulations Ben – and to all our graduates! Your hard work and perseverance have got you to this point, and we wish you the very best for a fulfilling and exciting future.

Read more about Ben's experience at university 👇https://www.waikato.ac.nz/study/student-success-stories/ben-bidois/

13/04/2026

A highly respected GP and health leader is joining the University of Waikato to help shape the future of medical education in New Zealand.

Dr Samantha Murton MNZM has been appointed Deputy Dean of the New Zealand Graduate School of Medicine, bringing more than 30 years of experience across clinical practice, teaching and leadership.

Working alongside Dean Professor Scott Wilkes, she will play a key role in establishing Waikato’s medical school, with a strong focus on primary care and improving access to healthcare in regions that need it most.

Read the full story on our website ⬇️ link in comments

19/12/2025

09/12/2025

Construction on our new four-storey medical school building is about to begin, with Foster Construction appointed as the main contractor.

Designed with our Division of Health, the building will support the New Zealand Graduate School of Medicine’s ‘digital-first’ model with VR-enabled learning spaces, simulation labs, digital anatomy and collaborative study areas. Around 200 people will be employed across the build over the next two years.

This marks an important step in the development of our Hamilton campus and the future of medical education in New Zealand.

⬇️ Full details on our website. Link in the comments.

Foster Group Limited Colliers New Zealand

09/12/2025

Congratulations to Tony O'Brien, in the School of Nursing and Midwifery, for his recent promotion to Professor.🌟💐🎉

Professor O'Brien's teaching and research focuses on improving responses to people engaging in mental health services. This includes reducing the use of legal coercion and supporting human rights through mechanisms such as advanced mental health directives and supported decision-making. A related focus has been police response to people experiencing mental distress in community settings.📒📘📕

Well-deserved Tony - we're proud of you!

08/12/2025

Congratulations to Ange Stewart – our new Head of the School of Nursing and Midwifery!

The Division of Health is delighted to announce that Ange Stewart has been appointed as the new Head of the School of Nursing and Midwifery. Ange brings outstanding leadership, deep professional expertise, and a longstanding commitment to empowering the next generation of nurses and midwives. We are excited to see her vision guide the School into its next chapter.

Ange said she is looking forward to working with the innovative, dedicated and talented team in the Division of Health whose mission is to prepare professional nurses and midwives for the delivery of exceptional and culturally responsive healthcare.

“We all share a commitment to developing professional nurses and midwives that will deliver whānau-centered, equitable and optimal health outcomes for the people of Aotearoa and beyond, and to ensuring students are well prepared for the present and future population healthcare needs,” she said.

Please join us in congratulating Ange on this well-deserved appointment and in celebrating the passion and experience she brings to this important role.

07/12/2025

We’ve teamed up with the University of Canterbury to help widen access to medical training and strengthen the future health workforce in Canterbury and across the motu.

This new partnership creates clearer pathways for UC graduates to enter the New Zealand Graduate School of Medicine, supporting students to train closer to their communities, and hopefully continue to serve those communities as future doctors.

Together, The University of Waikato and UC will also collaborate on research and shared projects that benefit regional and rural health services.

Read more about this partnership on our website - link in comments ⬇️

04/11/2025

If you’re studying a health-related degree programme that includes a clinical placement, you may like to apply for one of the brand new Hamilton Club Awards in Health, valued at $1,500. 🩺🩻💉

There are 50 available and applications for the first round close on 31 January 2026.

For more info 👇
https://tinyurl.com/yevwvxa

31/10/2025

Current student and Northern Districts pace bowler Kristian Clarke has been called into the Black Caps squad to replace an injured player ahead of the third and final ODI against England tomorrow (Saturday).

Kristian’s call up come after he scored his maiden domestic century and took three for 57 in Northern Districts win over the Central Stags in New Plymouth yesterday.

Kristian is currently studying for a Bachelor in Health, Sport and Human Performance.

All the best Kristian - we'll be cheering for you!

Read more 👇
https://tinyurl.com/2spfp22x

The University of Waikato

Black Caps pace bowler Blair Tickner has copped a worrying blow at training on the eve of the final ODI against England in Wellington.