“Fifty years is a significant milestone for any institution, but especially for one so deeply connected to its people and its region,” Laitinen said.
“Today is not only a celebration of that history. It is also a marker of an important moment for EIT, as we acknowledge our return to independence and the opportunity that brings for our future.”
She reflected on the vision of EIT’s founding chief executive John Harré, who in 1974 championed breaking down barriers to education and expanding opportunities for communities across the region.
“Fifty years later, that same belief in access, inclusion, community and opportunity still sits at the heart of who we are.”
Today, EIT supports more than 11,000 learners across Hawke’s Bay, Tairāwhiti, Auckland and international programmes, with education delivered not only on campuses but also in workplaces, marae, orchards, farms and community settings.
The newly unveiled waka maumahara was designed collaboratively by artists Chris Bryant-Toi and Manuel Dunn and blessed by Professor Joe Te Rito.
“This waka maumahara forms a pūtahi whereby other EIT campus locations radiate outwards and inwards from the centre,” Bryant-Toi said.
“In honour of Taka Walker, we wanted to make sure that we maintain his figurative carving style and distinctive pūhoro kōwhaiwhai design as painted on Te Waka Tapu o Tamatea Arikinui.”
Executive director Māori Robin Fabish said the carving carried deep cultural symbolism.
“The carving includes Māui and Kiwa. Māui links us to the name of our institution and the deeds that Māui is famous for,” Fabish said.
“The carving is full of meaning and symbolism and we are so fortunate to have it anchor us.”