29/05/2026
A significant milestone has been celebrated at EIT’s Hawke’s Bay campus with the unveiling of a waka maumahara, marking 50 years of EIT and its return to independence.
Blessed at its place near the entrance to the Taradale campus, the waka stands as a powerful symbol of connection between people, place, learning and whakapapa.
The milestone follows a special evening with staff, alumni, iwi and hapū partners, and community supporters acknowledging the many who have been part of EIT’s journey.
Chief Executive Lucy Laitinen reflected on both the past and future:
“Fifty years is a significant milestone for any institution, but especially for one so deeply connected to its people and its region.
And today is not only a celebration of that history. It is also a marker of an important moment for EIT, as we acknowledge our return to independence and the opportunity that brings for our future.”
Designed and created collaboratively by Chris Bryant-Toi and Manuel Dunn and blessed by Professor Joe Te Rito, the waka carries deep meaning. Featuring Māui and Kiwa, it honours our stories, our region and our global connections.
From community colleges to supporting more than 11,000 learners across Aotearoa and beyond, EIT remains committed to access, inclusion, community and opportunity.
Ehara taku toa i te toa takitahi, engari he toa takitini
(My strength is not mine alone, but the strength of many)
Here’s to 50 years and to the many more ahead shaping lives, whānau and communities through education.
