Eastern Institute of Technology chief executive Lucy Laitinen (centre left) and EIT Council chairman David Pearson (centre right) led a parade for Tairāwhiti graduates on Friday. Photo / Eastern Institute of Technology
Eastern Institute of Technology chief executive Lucy Laitinen (centre left) and EIT Council chairman David Pearson (centre right) led a parade for Tairāwhiti graduates on Friday. Photo / Eastern Institute of Technology
Eastern Institute of Technology Tairāwhiti celebrated its first graduation since the polytechnic re-established itself as a standalone institution, with 57 graduates crossing Gisborne’s War Memorial Theatre stage.
Bagpipes heralded the passage of graduates, whānau, supporters and EIT staff down Gladstone Rd, Gisborne’s main CBD road, on Friday.
In total, 443qualifications were achieved in 2025 by students who studied at EIT’s Tairāwhiti-based locations.
Of those, 73 were bachelor’s degrees or diplomas, while a further 370 certificates were awarded at other ceremonies throughout the year.
The average age of graduates was 30, with students aged from 16 to 76.
Of those enrolled at EIT Tairāwhiti in 2025, 69% identified as Māori and 7% as Pasifika.
EIT chief executive Lucy Laitinen said the occasion was a moment of pride for both EIT and the community.
“Having regained our independence, EIT is more determined than ever to serve Tairāwhiti and the wider region, ensuring our graduates leave with the skills, knowledge and resilience to make a real difference, both locally and beyond,” Laitinen said.
Tairāwhiti Campus executive director Tracey Tangihaere said the ceremony was a special occasion for the region.
“It is always a wonderful occasion to recognise and celebrate the success of so many graduates and honour the many people who have supported their academic journey,” she said.
Tangihaere also acknowledged the passing of long-serving kaumātua, Ngāti Porou leader, Taina Ngārimu, and welcomed Dr Wayne Ngata, who officiated the ceremony.
“We acknowledge the legacy and contribution of Taina Ngārimu, and we are honoured to have Dr Wayne Ngata step into this role, continuing that guidance and leadership.”
EIT Tairāwhiti valedictorian Ami Hokianga led graduates through Gisborne on Friday. Photo / Eastern Institute of Technology
Guest speaker Jordan Lima (Ngāti Porou, Te Aitanga-a-Hauiti, Ngāpuhi) addressed graduates, alongside valedictorian Ami Hokianga (Rongowhakaata, Ngāti Porou, Te Āti Haunui-a-Pāpārangi).
“I love the sentiments of ‘keep your face to the sunshine, be the change you wish to see, live life to the fullest, and spread positivity in the world’.”
