Innovative new learning space for students

Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology’s Windermere Campus celebrated the opening of a new $14 million student-centred learning space earlier this month.

Te Ara o Mauao is a multi-purpose, technologically enhanced learning space, which offers greater informality and flexibility for learning. The building also houses the institute’s creative arts students; the latest sound recording studios sit alongside purpose-built art, graphics, photography and creative spaces.

Dr Leon Fourie, Toi Ohomai Chief Executive, welcomed the more than 100 invited guests to the opening and unveiling.

“Te Ara o Mauao is a truly magnificent building,” said Dr Fourie. “This building covers more than 3,500m2 and has capacity for over 700 students and staff in its classrooms, workrooms and laneways. It is the first of other such modern flexible learning environments for Toi Ohomai.”

Bay of Plenty Regional Councillor, John Cronin MNZM, officially opened Te Ara o Mauao. Councillor Cronin, a long-time supporter of tertiary education in the Bay was delighted to help celebrate the opening.

“You, the educators of today, help to start in motion the plans and dreams that will change and our city and our region forever,” said Cr. Cronin. “The benefits are great and will benefit the whole community.”

The name Te Ara o Mauao was given by Huikakahu Kawe (Nga Te Ahi). It represents Toi Ohomai’s relationship with the Waimapu River, which runs alongside the western boundary of the Windermere Campus. The name is based on the journey of Mauao and how Mauao earned his mana. Likewise, students come to Toi Ohomai and their lives are changed when they are ‘caught in the light of knowledge and understanding’; their mana, like Mauo’s, is enhanced and valued as they continue their journey applying their learnings not just for their own benefit, but for the benefit of others.

Acknowledgments:

Chief architect, Jane Hill of Chow Hill
Main contractor, Marra Construction
Project management, Greenstone Group
Other consultants: BECA, Kingstons, BCD Group, Marshall Day Acoustics, Opus

With special thanks to local iwi and hapu, especially Lance Waaka, Stanley Walker, Des Heke and Te Pio Kawe for all of their assistance and guidance during excavations.