Detailed Profile
Waiariki Institute of Technology

General Description
Waiariki Institute of Technology is the fastest growing polytechnic in New Zealand. Approximately 6,000 full- and part-time students attend campuses in Rotorua, Taupo, Tokoroa and Whakatane, studying a range of qualifications from graduate diplomas to degrees, diplomas and certificates.
Waiariki is uniquely bicultural, with a holistic commitment to strengthening and supporting Māori and non-Māori students and staff on our campuses. Our marae on Mokoia Campus is called Tangatarua, which translates to 'two peoples'. All new students are formally welcomed to Waiariki on their first day with a traditional pōhiri (Māori welcome ceremony), and the marae becomes an integral part of their study experience.
Te Wānanga a Ihenga Māori Development, Humanities and Research develops and delivers Māori development, teaching and humanities qualifications, and supports special projects, foundation learning and research across the institute. Investment in the wānanga continues as a new $4 million complex was completed in 2012 to house this valuable asset.
Waiariki is committed to creating work-ready graduates who receive the most current education and skills training that are in demand by industry. From business and computing, tourism and hospitality, to forestry, nursing, arts and Māori studies, Waiariki’s qualifications are relevant and up to date. Waiariki offers diplomas and certificates to meet the demand for skilled trades people in the automotive, engineering, welding, construction, agriculture, horticulture, culinary, hairdressing, interior design, and fashion technology industries.
A community recreation centre on Mokoia Campus supports students, staff and the pubic with health and fitness goals. The recreation centre is also the training hub of Waiariki's Academy of Sport, a unique programme which provides an environment for young, talented athletes of our region to prioritise their sport while gaining a tertiary qualification. Waiariki Academy of Sport was launched in 2007 to provide an environment where young, talented athletes from the region can receive specialised, targeted training and support in their chosen sport while also gaining a tertiary qualification. The academy’s success will see two of these Waiariki athletes compete in the 2012 Olympic Games in London.
Waiariki Academy of Singing and Music was modelled on the highly successful Academy of Sport and is now in its second year mentoring talented singers and musicians. The academy’s scholars have already enjoyed successes through recording contracts with Sony Music and performances in high-profile events such as 2011 Rugby World Cup.
Student Services
A nurse in the Health Centre on Mokoia Campus provides a range of services including health screening, assessment and monitoring, wound and injury management, first aid, sexual health and others. Doctors’ clinics are also offered.
Waiariki welcomes people with disabilities. Study assistance and special equipment can be arranged. Buildings have wheelchair access and allocated disability parking.
Many scholarships and grants are available. Waiariki students can request assistance through the staff in the library.
Halls of residence, Waiariki House student hostel, and private residence boarding options are available for non-local or international students who seek accommodation near campus.
Categories:
Polytechnics / Institutes of Technology
International – Polytechnics / Institutes of Technology