Hundreds of new students were welcomed to the start of University of Waikato Orientation Week on Monday 24 February at both the Hamilton and Tauranga campuses.
In Tauranga, the university’s kaumātua Mr Tamati Tata led the first new student pōwhiri since the campus was officially opened last year.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Neil Quigley welcomed more than 200 students to the event, which was well supported by University staff. Professor Quigley spoke of the many years of planning by the University and its tertiary and funding partners that resulted in the campus that stands today. He encouraged students to make the most of what the campus has to offer and recommended they engage with the unique cultural narrative that is evident in the artworks displayed both in and outside the building.
Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Alister Jones welcomed guests during Hamilton’s pōwhiri at Te Kohinga Mārama Marae, which was attended by distinguished visitors, students and University staff.
At the welcome, Professor Jones discussed the rising development of The Pā, which is being built in the centre of the campus, and encouraged students to get involved with University life.
Both pōwhiri events marked the start of a host of activities planned on each campus for 2020 Orientation. This twice-yearly event gives students a chance to get familiar with the facilities on offer, prepare for the start of classes and enjoy the food trucks, music, sausage sizzles and competitions available.
