Staff + Student LoginDawn ceremony lifts tapu from Student Centre
9 November 2011
Student Centre Opening: Attending the dawn ceremony of Waikato University's new Student Centre are (left to right) Haupai Puke, Tom Roa, Karaitiana Tamatea, Tame Pokaia, Renee Crawford, Vice-Chancellor Professor Roy Crawford, Professor Pou Temara, Rangi Kipa and Ray Gage.
A dawn karakia at the new University of Waikato Student Centre has prepared the multifunctional facility for its official opening later today.
About 80 people gathered before daybreak for the blessing ceremony which saw the unveiling of Aurei – a sculpture specially made to stand at the main entrance of the Student Centre.
Eye of the Needle
Sculpted by New Zealand artist and Waikato alumnus Rangi Kipa, Aurei represents a famous proverbial saying from King Pōtatau, the first Māori king: There is but one eye of the needle through which the white, black and red threads must pass.
The sculpture suggests the spirit of unity and the common pursuit of knowledge and understanding, symbolically tying people, relationships, kaupapa and ideologies together.
Later today, the Student Centre will be officially opened by Governor-General Lt Gen the Rt Hon Sir Jerry Mateparae, a Waikato alumnus.
Student Centre Facilities
The Student Centre project, which has taken three years to complete, has seen the university’s library updated and expanded to become the social heart of the campus. The facility combines traditional library resources with high-tech IT facilities and will also feature shops, relaxation spaces and a central point for student services on campus.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Roy Crawford says the opening of the Student Centre is a significant occasion for the university. “The conception and completion of this building is another demonstration of our commitment to the delivery of a world-class education while providing our students with a dynamic university experience.”
The official opening of the University of Waikato Student Centre will be held at 11am.Photo Album
Student Centre Opening - Dawn Ceremony
A dawn karakia of the new University of Waikato Student Centre was held early this morning where about 80 guests gathered for the ceremony which saw the unveiling of Aurei – a sculpture specially made to stand at the main entrance of the Student Centre.
9th November 2011
