Aiga, culture and community at Waikato

At the University of Waikato, we value culture, community and belonging.

pacific students walking past pa

Pacific at Waikato

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Aiga

E vave taunu’u le malaga pe a tatou alo va’a fa’atasi

Our destiny is within sight when we paddle our canoe together — famous Samoan proverb

At the University of Waikato we want to paddle together.

Family is one of the most important principles in the Pacific. We know that Pacific learners do not voyage into learning on their own but represent the hopes and sacrifices of their ancestors, families, and communities. 

Wherever home is, we want our Pacific students to feel like they are home when they come here and to know they have become part of our wider University of Waikato aiga, famili, fanau and 'ohana — family. 

Our vibrant Pacific aiga, culture and community here at the University of Waikato includes Pacific aunties, uncles and cousins in various roles who become familiar faces to our students and are ready to help. 

Na Veiqaraqaravi Vakavanua vei Sir Anand Satyanand

The university hosted the Veiqaravi Vakavanua for our previous Chancellor Sir Anand Satyanand, who has roots in the Pacific — especially Fiji. The Fijian community and our Pacific Student Associations made the event possible. 

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Pacific Language Weeks and Independence Days

We celebrate all New Zealand Pacific Language Weeks, including Rotuman, Samoan, Kiribati, Solomon Islands Pidgin, Cook Islands Māori, Tongan, Papua New Guinea Tok Pisin, Tuvaluan, Fijian, Niuean, and Tokelauan. We also come together to mark other Pacific independence days and holidays.

Pacific at Waikato's YouTube playlist
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pacific students at expo

Community

When you enrol with us, you become part of a vibrant community committed to your success. You’ll connect with strategic partners, student leaders and proud alumni, building relationships that support your learning, growth and future beyond university.

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Culture and languages

Pacific cultures and languages are precious taonga that foster community, connection and belonging. Across campus, you’ll hear Pacific languages spoken and celebrated, alongside cultural events including Pacific Language Weeks and our Pacific Awards.

Strategic Partners and Collaborations

We are privileged to work closely with Pacific community organisations, networks and other stakeholders. 

Examples of our strategic partners and collaborations include K'aute Pasifika Trust, Volunteer Service Abroad and National Institute of Water and Atmosphere (NIWA). 

Waikato Student Union (WSU) - Pacific Student Associations

The University of Waikato is proud to support a vibrant Pacific student community.

Through Waikato Student Union clubs and associations, Pacific students can connect with others, celebrate culture and language, grow leadership skills, and build lifelong friendships.

Throughout the year, our community comes together to honour Pacific Language Weeks and Independence Days.

To explore current Pacific student clubs, visit the Waikato Student Union website.