28 | A cohesion of culture, education T T from page 26 EIT Campus: Gemco “This redevelopment symbolises our collective resilience and our commitment to providing a supportive and inspiring environment for all who study and work here” REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT “We consulted with Māori and Pacific community representatives to develop the project with their collective vision and support,” says Chris. “The designs reflect both the cyclone experience and ongoing research, creating imagery that contributes to global conversations around resilience, identity and climate change.” Chris says the cultural integration extends beyond aesthetics to educational philosophy. Stories of Tāne, Māui and Tāwhaki provide platforms for discussing how people learn and relate socially within changing environments and emerging technologies – themes particularly relevant to a recovering institution embracing digital innovation. Glen says despite the challenges, EIT has emerged stronger. Recent Tertiary Education Commission indicators show it as New Zealand’s highest-performing polytechnic for first-year student retention, exceeding national averages in course completion, progression and qualification completion. “Our main focus has always been our students. This redevelopment symbolises our collective resilience and our commitment to providing a supportive and inspiring environment for all who study and work here,” he says. With nearly 70% of buildings now operational and 3000 equivalent full-time students back on campus, the final phase will be a nursing clinical facility due for completion in April 2026. Te Aweawe-i-te-rangi Cirrus cloud wayfind design detail. +64 6 843 5353 www.boulevardservices.co.nz PROUD TO PROVIDE CLEANING SERVICES AND CONCRETE FLOOR GRINDING TO EIT CAMPUS SCAFFOLDING AND ACCESS SOLUTIONS ACROSS HAWKE’S BAY COMMERCIAL • RESIDENTIAL • INDUSTRIAL • SCAFFOLDING • RIGGING • EDGE PROTECTION • MOBILES • SHRINKWRAP • STAIR ACCESS • SAFETY NETS 0800 222 234 • info@kahuscaffolding.co.nz • www.kahuscaffolding.co.nz Give us a call and one of our experienced teamwill be happy to chat about your project! Proudly supporting EIT Campus Good to be back: from left, Pareputiputi Nuku Te Ūranga Waka Māori Studies – Pouarataki Head of School), Chris Bryant-Toi (Te Kura i Awarua Rangahau Research Centre project lead), and Glen Harkness (Te Pūkenga - EIT operations lead).
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