Māori and Pacific students and graduates

Steven Rapana –  Nga Puhi/Samoa

Steven graduated with a Bachelor of Music (BMus) in 2009, and is still a highly valued member of the University of Auckland Chamber Choir. In May 2011 the Choir travelled to Singapore and the UK on their inaugural international tour, for which Steven was asked to compose a special piece. In this video Steven talks about his classical arrangement of a traditional Samoan folk song, followed by the Choir's performance of the piece at a farewell concert before they left New Zealand.

"I am more passionate about music than anything else in my life. The University of Auckland was my first choice in furthering my knowledge and understanding of music."

Teuila Hughes - Fiji

"Growing up in Fiji introduced me to many different Pacific cultures, and the best way for me to get to know each was through dance.

"I chose Dance Studies at The University of Auckland because the Programme offers opportunities to explore individual movement through body and mind, as well as the role of dance in society, which I think is important."

Teuila is studying for a Master of Creative and Performing Arts (MCPA) – Dance Studies.

Andrew Faleatua – Samoa

"I enjoy the positive learning environment and performance opportunities that are part of studying music at The University of Auckland. My tutors and lecturers have provided the support I need to complete my degree with excellence.

"I am involved in the organisation of my youth group, as a leader.  I have found that the music and presentation skills I have learned at university have been useful in bringing out the best in Pacific Island and Māori youth.

"Don't hesitate to pursue your creative passion. You will discover your true potential and gain skills that you will keep for the rest of your life."

Andrew is studying for a Master of Music (MMus), majoring in Jazz Performance.
 

Rebecca Green – Ngāti Tuwharetoa

"In my first year of study I became involved in the Tuakana programme as a teina. Now that I’m in my fourth year, I’m a Tuakana mentor and able to help out the younger teina. The programme helps with the academic side of your degree and offers opportunities for future work as a mentor, and the chance to meet like-minded people with similar backgrounds and scholarships.

"I have been fortunate enough to receive a summer research scholarship which has allowed me to work in an area of architecture I am specifically interested in."

Rebecca is studying for a Master of Architecture (Professional) (MArch(Prof)).

 

Jonathan Harnett – Ngāpuhi and Ngāti Hine

"Planning is a discipline which requires creativity as it deals with the interactions between people and buildings.  It is about creating inviting spaces and working with communities to incorporate inherited values and tikanga. 

"Planning involves designing for a future where our whanau and tamariki may relish their natural and physical resources and have accessible and functional facilities.

"I have had excellent support from lecturers within the School of Architecture and Planning.  They are always willing to assist with any questions I have.  I look forward to being involved in transport planning as it brings together a wide range of skills."

Jonathan is studying for a Bachelor of Planning (BPlan).

Pauline Hiroti – Ngāti Apa

"I chose to study at The University of Auckland because of the diverse range of subjects their dance programme offers. You are not only challenged in the practical papers, but also in the academic papers.
   
"In this degree you are not just another number, you are treated as an individual and a priority by the lecturers. The guidance and support provided has given me the tools and knowledge necessary to pursue a successful career in this industry.

"I am considering a career in the community dance field, working with Māori youth, as I feel I can connect and relate to these individuals."

Pauline is studying for a Bachelor of Dance Studies (BDanceSt).

 

Ngahuia Harrison – Ngāti Wai

"The facilities at The University of Auckland are incredible. The libraries are second to none, some health services are free, and the Student Learning Centre provides any academic support you might need.  Plus there are a huge variety of clubs, including Māori and Pacific clubs, that anyone can be a part of. 

"On top of this, Elam School of Fine Arts have their own amazing resources; a great library with great staff, workshops for any project you want to complete and state of the art equipment.

"At Elam you are able to work with teaching and technical staff who are both established artists and generous teachers. This means that students will be well equipped to leave the University confident in the field they’ve chosen."

Ngahuia is studying for a Bachelor of Fine Arts (Honours) (BFA(Hons)).

Jordan Leota – Samoa

"I chose to study at The University of Auckland because of its distinguished reputation as New Zealand’s leading university. I appreciate the calibre of staff and visiting architects who give students insight into the cutting-edge technologies employed in the industry.

"The learning environment within the design studios is, for me, one of the best experiences at the University. It’s a great social environment where students exchange ideas and critique each other’s work.  The friendly competition amongst students pushes me to produce work to compete. For anyone thinking of studying architecture, getting into the habit of having a great work ethic is the best piece of advice I can share."

Jordan is studying for a Bachelor of Architectural Studies (BAS).