Massey awards and appointments

Te Rau Karamu Marae wins prestigious Purple Pin in Best Design Awards

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 00:00:00 +1200

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Te Kāhui Toi, under the leadership of Professor Ngātai Taepa and Associate Professor Kura Puke of Toi Rauwhārangi College of Creative Arts, has been awarded a Purple Pin for the design of Te Rau Karamu Marae on the university’s Pukeahu Campus (Wellington) in the Toitanga (Māori design) category.

A Purple Pin is the highest recognition in the Best Design Awards for work that leads to advancement and programme design in Aotearoa New Zealand. The awards, delivered by the Designers Institute of New Zealand, celebrate excellence in graphic, spatial, product, digital and motion design and include three special awards – Value of Design, Public Good and Toitanga. The best entries in each category are awarded a Gold Pin and the very best project in each discipline is awarded the supreme Purple Pin.

Pro Vice-Chancellor of Toi Rauwhārangi College of the Creative Arts Professor Margaret Maile Petty says being awarded the Purple Pin in Toitanga is deep honour for the entire college.

“This is recognition of the extraordinary mahi of Māori artists working closely with mana whenua to bring this significant and beautiful taonga into being.”

The Purple Pin in Toitanga is a first for the university. Te Kāhui Toi also received two Gold Pins, one for the Toitanga category and another for Te Wairere category (lighting design). They were also awarded a Silver Pin in the Lighting Design Category.

Te Kāhui Toi is a team of artist-designers, supported by tohunga and tribal leaders, and guided by experts in their specialist knowledge. The judges acknowledged that the team’s mahi on Te Rau Karamu Marae reflects an extraordinary level of artistry, innovation and long periods of work that have gone into creation of a Marae of immense distinction. The judges’ comments were that the work was “A truly breathtaking take on what a marae can be. Flawlessly crafted with stunning detail and imagination.”

Professor Ngātai Taepa says the recognition and award is humbling.

“The calibre of the other finalists was outstanding and it is humbling to be in the company of such accomplished projects and fellow creatives. It is an honour to receive this award on behalf of Te Rau Karamu Marae, Pukeahu and Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa. It is an acknowledgement of tupuna wisdom, Māori creative arts, and the work of the many people involved in the creation of our marae. Nei rā te mihi o Te Kāhui Toi ki te iti, te rahi, te katoa.”

Te Rau Karamu has received longstanding guidance and support from Mana Whenua of Pukeahu Campus, Te Ātiawa, and operational support from the Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Māori.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor Māori Professor Meihana Durie says since its opening in March, Te Rau Karamu Marae continues to receive plaudits from across Te Ao Māori and Te Ao Whānui for the level of artistry and depth of mātauranga that has gone into the project.

“Te Rau Karamu represents a living, breathing expression of kaupapa and mātauranga Māori, and provides a distinctive and uniquely Māori space upon Pukeahu Campus where staff and students can thrive in the processes of ako and wānanga.

“The success of Te Kāhui Toi is also reflective of their approach to undertaking this work, working closely and collaboratively alongside many contributors including Te Ātiawa kaumātua and pakeke. It has taken an extraordinary level of commitment to achieve this outcome and Te Rau Karamu is testament to the vison that Te Kāhui Toi have carried through their work ”

The detailed design of Te Rau Karamu Marae

The design of the wharenui ‘Te Whaioranga o Te Whaiao’ relates to a defined area within Te Waonui (the forest) and focused on the roles of atua such as Tāne Whakapiripiri and Hinewaonui in the creation of Te Rakau Tipua - the cosmic tree. This speaks of the connections to all things, which may be experienced by all of those who enter under its canopy and into its embrace, in ceremony guided by the spatial narrative.

The description for the award reads, “In terms of the architectural partnership and relationships with engineers and fabricators, the mutual respect for kaupapa, spatial and material aesthetics resulted in shared intentions, support and drive to pursue a resolved complex that reflects the highest values of mana and manaakitanga. The majestic maihi featuring glue-lamination techniques of native totara and requiring engineering problem-solving is a testament to these relationships.”

Here is more information on the Te Rau Karamu Marae description for the Best Design Awards.

Team members who received the award include Professor Ngataiharuru Taepa, Kura Puke, Hemi Macgregor, Saffronn Te Ratana, Stuart Foster, Wi Taepa, Israel Birch, Robert Jahnke, Maihi Potaka, Te Kahui Toi whanau whanui. Contributors include Te Matahiapō, Te Huirangi Waikerepuru, Mereiwa Broughton, Inahaa Waikerepuru, Te Ngaruru Wineera, Kurt Komene, Chaz Doherty, Rangi Mataamua, Kura Moeahu, Athfield Architects.

College of Creative Arts staff and students won a total of 45 Best Awards, one Purple Pin, six Gold Pins, 16 Silver Pins and 22 Bronze Pins.

Massey fiction writers shine in Ockham Book Awards shortlist

Tue, 15 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +1200

Clockwise from top left: Professor Bryan Walpert, Dr Gigi Fenster, Anne Kennedy and Whiti Hereaka.

Four Massey creative writing lecturers and tutors are shortlisted in this year’s Ockham New Zealand Book Awards, with three dominating the fiction section and one in poetry.

Massey novelists make up three quarters of finalists shortlisted for the $60,000 Jann Medlicott Acorn Prize for Fiction. They are Professor Bryan Walpert for Entanglement (Makaro Press), Dr Gigi Fenster for A Good Winter (Text Publishing), and Whiti Hereaka for Kurangaituku (Huia Publishers). Poet Anne Kennedy is shortlisted for the Mary and Peter Biggs Award for Poetry, for The Sea Walks into a Wall (Auckland University Press).

Listed in the New Zealand Listener’s Best Books of 2021, Entanglement has been described as an “ingenious meditation on time, memory and decay,” and lauded for its ambitious scope in exploring tragedy and loss – with a dose of quantum physics.

Professor Walpert, a doctoral mentor and supervisor who teaches undergraduate and post-graduate creative writing papers, says, "I'm delighted and honoured that the judges thought Entanglement worthy of being among the finalists. It’s a particular honour given the very high calibre of the other writers on the long list. I’m really happy people are reading the work and finding something to appreciate in it.”

His novella Late Sonata won the 2020 Seizure Viva La Novella Prize, and he’s also written a short story collection, four books of poetry, and two of literary criticism.

Dr Fenster, who teaches fiction, creative non-fiction, and writing for children, says she is "surprised, blown away, excited and a little bit terrified,” at being shortlisted for her psychological thriller about two older women looking after a baby while the mother recovers from postnatal depression.

“There were so many brilliant books on the longlist, and the shortlist is exceptional. It can be hard to see the merit in one's own work, particularly when one spends much of one's working life reading masterpieces,” she says. “I think all writers are critical of their own work, and that self-criticism doesn't go away once one starts publishing. The critical voice in my head has, over the years, grown all the more strident. Being shortlisted has muted the silence - for now - and that is no small thing.”

A Good Winter is her second novel following the publication of The Intentions Book in 2013, a finalist in the New Zealand Post Book Awards at the time.

Anne Kennedy is a novelist, screenwriter, and multiple-award-winning author of 10 works of poetry and fiction who received the Prime Minister’s Award for Literary Achievement in Poetry last year. She says it’s a huge honour to be shortlisted, especially alongside such fine writers. "I feel very lucky. It means someone has read the work, and along with most writers, I like to be read."

“What excites me about the Ockham process is that it brings contemporary Aotearoa literature to the fore for a few weeks a year. The list, and, importantly, books that aren’t on the list too, get talked about in a whole range of ways – for their content and technique, who they represent, what changes are happening in literature. All good stuff."

Whiti Hereaka, Ngāti Tūwharetoa, Te Arawa, an award-winning playwright who has written three previous novels, recently joined Massey’s creative writing teaching staff. Her novel Kurangaituku is a clever re-imagining of the bird-woman ogress from Māori myth Hutupatu and the Bird-Woman.

She says she is thrilled and a little bit overwhelmed at being a finalist. “There’s a part of me that still thinks of myself as a playwright hack pretending to be a novelist, so to be amongst some very fine novelists is humbling indeed. Also, I never think it’s a given that my work will be published let alone it being celebrated, so it’s encouraging that there are people out there that resonate with my work. Also, I think it has given me licence to experiment even more in my mahi — so stay tuned for extra strangeness.”

Professor Kerry Taylor, head of the School of Humanities, Media, and Creative Communication, says he is incredibly proud that so many Massey-connected writers are on the Ockham shortlist.

The creative writing programme celebrated its 20th anniversary last year. Professor Taylor says, "As well as continuing to expand and consolidate strengths with the addition of new staff, we are also opening up new conversations for creative writing in Aotearoa in the 21st century.”

As well as a Master of Creative Writing, the progamme offers undergraduate papers in life writing, poetry, travel, scriptwriting, creative non-fiction and eco-fiction, writing for children and more. Many are taught by academics who are also published and award-winning authors.

For more information on creative writing at Massey, click here.

More information about the awards can be found here.

New Adjunct Professor appointment at the Riddet Institute

Tue, 08 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +1200

Professor Barbara Burlingame.

Professor Barbara Burlingame has been appointed as an Adjunct Professor by the Riddet Institute in recognition of her professional achievements and leadership in public health nutrition and food systems.

This appointment is a continuation of her role at Massey University, moving from her adjunct professorship with the School of Health Sciences to the Riddet Institute. Her expertise in sustainable diets, food security and nutrition will be of great benefit to the research programmes at the institute, particularly the Sustainable Nutrition Initiative^TM.

Distinguished Professor Harjinder Singh, Director of the Riddet Institute, says Professor Burlingame brings her strong connections and expert knowledge on nutrition and sustainability.

“Her appointment will further strengthen the institute’s ability to collaborate across the world. Her strategic advice into the Riddet Institute and its Sustainable Nutrition Initiative^TM will be invaluable.”

Professor Burlingame is a nutrition scientist, an independent consultant and advisor to several international bodies. She has a PhD from Massey University and undergraduate degrees from University of California, Davis (nutrition science and environmental toxicology).

Professor Burlingame is a member of the High-Level Panel of Experts Steering Committee on World Food Security, chair of the International Union of Nutritional Sciences Task Force on Sustainable Diets and specialty chief editor of Frontiers in Nutrition. She was the recipient of the 2021 Ancel and Margaret Keys award for her work on sustainable diets and biodiversity for food and nutrition.

Professor Burlingame says her interests and international activities align well with the Riddet Institute, particularly in the area of sustainable nutrition.

“While chief of nutrition at Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), I had the occasion to invite Riddet personnel to be involved in important international expert consultations on several critical nutrition topics. Their involvement was always highly valued.”

From her work in the late 1980s through to 1998 as a scientist in one of the Crown Research Institutes, to her current international work with FAO and other UN bodies, her interactions with Riddet Institute staff has been a constant feature, she adds.

Professor Burlingame’s work with the Riddet Institute will focus on sustainable diets and sustainable food systems.

Te Rau Karamu Marae wins prestigious Purple Pin in Best Design Awards

Tue, 22 Feb 2022 00:00:00 +1200

The Te Rau Karamu Marae on the Pukeahu campus (Wellington)

Professor Ngātai Taepa says the recognition and award is humbling.

Te Rau Karamu has received longstanding guidance and support from Mana Whenua of Pukeahu Campus, Te Ātiawa, and operational support from the Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Māori.

The detailed design of Te Rau Karamu Marae

Here is more information on the Te Rau Karamu Marae description for the Best Design Awards.

College of Creative Arts staff and students won a total of 45 Best Awards, one Purple Pin, six Gold Pins, 16 Silver Pins and 22 Bronze Pins.

Associate Professor Veronica Tawhai appointed to new role of Pūkenga Tiriti

Thu, 17 Feb 2022 00:00:00 +1200

Veronica Tawhai with mother Pamela Tawhai at Massey graduation.

Associate Professor Veronica Tawhai, Ngati Porou; Ngati Uepohatu, has been appointed to the newly established role of Pūkenga Tiriti and joins the Office of the DVC Māori from Te Pūtahi-a-Toi after 14 years lecturing in Māori policy and politics. The Pūkenga Tiriti role and appointment at Associate Professor level recognises the importance of Te Tiriti education and Māori scholarly expertise as the university advances programmes of work to embed and apply Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

Deputy Vice Chancellor Māori Professor Meihana Durie says it is an important appointment for the university.

"Veronica's appointment to the role of Pūkenga Tiriti acknowledges her outstanding level of scholarship and leadership in Te Tiriti education over many years. She has worked tirelessly not only within the university, but across many communities and networks throughout Aotearoa where she has advanced Te Tiriti education in ways that have had a significant and enduring positive impact. As Pūkenga Tiriti, she will help to lead work that contributes to fulfilment of the University's commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and we are tremendously excited to welcome her into this new role."

With 20 years of experience advancing Te Tiriti o Waitangi in tertiary, government and community spaces, Associate Professor Tawhai has held national roles in Te Mana Ākonga (National Māori Tertiary Student’s Association), the Ministry of Education’s Māori tertiary team, the Tertiary Education Commission’s External Māori Reference Group, UNESCO’s Education sub-Commission, and the Iwi Leaders Forum’s Matike Mai AotearoaRangatahi project, an initiative engaging youth and tertiary students on Te Tiriti and constitutional issues. As recipient of the 2012 Fulbright-Nga Pae O Te Maramatanga Senior Scholar award, Associate Professor Tawhai conducted research on teaching and learning about Indigeneity and the implications for citizenship education in the US, Canada and Aotearoa. She has also held research fellowships at the Centre for World Indigenous Studies based out of The Evergreen State College (Olympia, WA) and the National Centre for Indigenous Studies, Australian National University (Canberra, AU).

In 2004 Dr Tawhai co-founded the tertiary-based political education collective Te Ata Kura (Society for Conscientisation) and since 2009 has delivered Tiriti o Waitangi workshops nationwide as a Te Ata Kura Educator. She has published widely and contributed as a keynote speaker, expert facilitator and media commentator on Te Tiriti o Waitangi, Māori development, constitutional and citizenship issues. Her current work encompasses a Marsden project that addresses pedagogies for the teaching of Aotearoa NZ histories in schools and a second edition of her 2011 co-edited book ‘Always Speaking: The Treaty of Waitangi and public policy’.

Her appointment represents an important part of the next phase of the university’s Te Tiriti planning, where, alongside other contributors, she will help lead work for development of a Te Tiriti education programme for staff and continuation of work towards a Te Tiriti Centre.

History researcher to explore New Zealand's mineral wealth exhibitions

Thu, 17 Feb 2022 00:00:00 +1200

The series of exhibitions that Dr John Griffiths will research begins with the Great Exhibition of 1851 and runs through to the later twentieth century.

Dr John Griffiths.

Dr John Griffiths, School of Humanities, Media and Creative Communication, has won the 2021 Alan Mason Award for Historical Studies which is awarded annually by the Geoscience Society of New Zealand.

The award will enable Dr Griffiths to carry out research into exhibitions displaying New Zealand’s mineral wealth between 1851 and 1990.

“During this time many exhibitions were staged across the world, to both inform and entertain visitors and to promote a nation’s products,” Dr Griffiths says.

“They have been described as ‘glorified showrooms’, in which nations and firms displayed goods in the hope of encouraging sales. They were also where a nation demonstrated its economic progress. A key aspect of the contribution that New Zealand made to these exhibitions was displaying its mineral wealth.

“My project aims to provide a comprehensive account of each of the exhibitions staged, the minerals that were displayed and why those minerals were valued in the Empire and indeed, globally.”

Dr Griffiths will also examine the main organisers of these exhibitions, especially those who took it upon themselves to display the minerals.

“I’ll also research how these exhibitions and the minerals displayed, changed across time.”

The Alan Mason Award will also enable Dr Griffiths to publish articles in historical journals based on his research and to travel to Wellington to undertake further research in the National Library of New Zealand and Archives New Zealand.

The series of exhibitions that Dr Griffiths will research begins with the Great Exhibition of 1851 and runs through to the later twentieth century.

“This research is important because it will focus on New Zealand’s contribution to these hugely popular global events,” Dr Griffiths says.

The Geoscience Society of New Zealand represents its community by providing collaborative leadership, advocacy and information to connect people and Earth sciences within Aotearoa New Zealand and has more than 700 members from universities, Crown Research Institutes, industry and consultancies.

Alan Mason was a leading science historian. Following retirement from a business career, he chronicled the history of geology in New Zealand, and produced three biographies of pioneer geologists.

Massey appoints first-ever Percival Carmine Chair in Epidemiology and Public Health

Thu, 03 Feb 2022 00:00:00 +1200

Professor David Hayman has been appointed as the inaugural Percival Carmine Chair in Epidemiology and Public Health. Image courtesy of Brad Boniface Photography.

Building on Massey’s expertise in epidemiology and public health is the aim behind a position that has been newly established by the Massey University Foundation. The Percival Carmine Chair in Epidemiology and Public Health has been generously funded by Massey alumni Anne and Bryce Carmine to the value of $3.5 million for the next 10 years, and will be occupied by Professor David Hayman from the School of Veterinary Science.

Professor Hayman is a world expert in infectious disease ecology and has particular expertise in emerging bat infections. He holds numerous international roles, including on a newly established “One Health” High Level Expert Panel advising the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), the World Organisation for Animal Health, the United Nations Environment Programme, and the World Health Organisation on health crises arising from the human-animal-ecosystem interface and strategic approaches to reducing the risk of pandemics. He is also currently involved in a research project that explores what factors allow pathogens, such as coronaviruses, to ‘jump’ from animals to humans in particular environments.

Anne and Bryce say the ability to endow a Chair in Epidemiology and Public Health will enable Professor Hayman and his team to continue this significant research, and other multi-disciplinary projects, that are of particular importance to the current global situation. “We are delighted to be able to support research that has the potential to contribute so much to society’s understanding of infection transmission, spillover and subsequent disease, and potentially inform future policy,” Bryce says.

Anne adds that the Chair will provide postgraduate and postdoctoral training in epidemiology and public health in New Zealand, therefore facilitating the development of skilled researchers.

Professor Hayman says he was hugely honoured to be the recipient of this extremely generous donation. “The continuity of the funding and amount allow both long-term planning and flexibility, which will enable me and my team to continue some ambitious infectious disease research both within New Zealand and internationally.”

Head of Tāwharau Ora - the School of Veterinary Science, Professor Jon Huxley, says the School is humbled by the generosity of Anne and Bryce. “It is difficult to overestimate how transformative their generosity will be for Professor Hayman and his critically important research, but also for us as a School. Having a named philanthropically funded Chair is a very big deal for our School and is another huge step forward in our aspiration to take the very best of New Zealand veterinary science to the world.”

Massey University Vice-Chancellor Professor Jan Thomas says the Chair is significant for the university as it recognises Massey’s long-standing expertise in the area of infectious disease. “We are delighted to make this appointment as it will strengthen our contribution and credentials in this area at a time when the world needs it most.”

Anne and Bryce are both second generation Massey alumni, and have been heavily involved with the university for a number of years. The new position is named after Anne’s father Cam Percival, who graduated with a degree in agriculture in 1945. Subsequent to graduating, Cam went on to make a pivotal contribution to the discovery of facial eczema in sheep in New Zealand, as well as global contributions through his work with the FAO and the World Bank.

The family connections and value of the education each family member received from Massey, plus the desire to give back to Massey were key motivating factors behind the decision to make such a contribution, says Anne. “Our Massey education was critical for both Bryce and I in securing our first jobs and anchoring our future careers.”

Anne began her career as a clinical trial co-ordinator for the pharmaceutical company Merck before transitioning to Adis Press as a medical writer. She then went on to gain a Masters of Science from Butler University in the United States. Bryce began his career as a hospital sales representative. He went on to various senior executive roles with Eli Lilly & Co with responsibility for global pharmaceutical sales and marketing, and the development of new products prior to their approval by regulatory agencies. He subsequently became founder, CEO and chairman of biotech company HaemaLogiX and is also a board director for Kazia Therapeutics, a company dedicated to the development of a product that treats a form of brain cancer.

“Anne and I firmly believe that our education at Massey established a scientific curiosity and built an understanding that following the scientific evidence of a well-designed research project is critical for valid conclusions and the creation of new knowledge. This is the essence of Professor Hayman’s project that we’re now supporting at Massey,” Bryce says.

Anne and Bryce have supported a number of projects at Massey since 2017, including providing grants for research in the areas of microbiology and molecular biology.

Left-right: Bryce Carmine, Anne Carmine, Cam Percival and former Massey Vice-Chancellor Steve Maharey during a visit to the Manawatū campus in 2014.

2022 New Year Honours recognise Massey alumni

Thu, 27 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +1200

Dr Godfrey has been made Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM).

Twenty nine Massey University alumni and staff have been named in the 2022 New Year Honours list, including Senior Lecturer in Statistics Dr Jonathan Godfrey (PhD (Science in 2004), Master of Information Sciences in 1999, Bachelor of Science in 1996 and Bachelor of Business Studies in 1994).

Dr Godfrey has been made Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM) for services to disabled people, particularly blind and low vision people. He has been on the Board of the Association of Blind Citizens of New Zealand since 2004 and President since 2016. He was also the first blind person to gain employment as a lecturer in Statistics internationally.

Dr Godfrey has provided leadership for the Disabled People’s Organisation Coalition, a coalition of seven disabled person-led organisations. He has played a key role in the development of the Disability Action Plan 2019-2023. He has been a member of the cross-government Disability Data and Evidence Working Group, contributing his skills as a statistician to improve the availability of disability data in the census and other government surveys. His 2006 report ‘Supplementary analysis of the cost of blindness in New Zealand’ remains a valuable resource.

Internationally, he has provided mentoring to blind students pursuing statistics and other STEM subjects. He was a Board member of the Royal New Zealand Foundation of the Blind from 2006 to 2011. Within the wider community, Dr Godfrey has held roles with Palmerston North City Council committees, been a member of Mid-Central DHB’s Disability Support Advisory Committee from 2008 to 2017 and has been a Trustee for Palmerston North’s Central Region Advocacy Service.

Dr Godfrey says supporting blind students and their teachers all over the world has become his principal research interest.

“Like me, every other blind person wanting to study a STEM discipline in the late 20th century had to work it all out for themselves, and we made plenty of mistakes or wasted time trying things that others knew would fail. Today, I get to stop people making the same mistakes I made by publishing, educating, and being an active part of several international communities of blind students and professionals. I suspect that very few of those people will ever learn that I’ve received an honour for that service.

I don’t think many of my colleagues really know what community work I’ve been doing outside Massey. The disabled people I work with and for in New Zealand who are aware of this honour aren’t aware of the international work I do either. The receipt of the honour has started quite a few conversations as people I’ve known for years start to see things they didn’t know about me. I guess I never had to volunteer to take on all the things I choose to do, but I was brought up to help people when I could. My parents were educators and I’ve been a student and a teacher as long as I can remember. I’ve never liked having to ask for help; I think that makes me want to choose to help other people when I can.”

Dr Geoff Lorigan has been made a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit (CNZM).

Dr Geoff Lorigan

Diploma in Dairy Technology alumnus (1978) Dr Geoff Lorigan has been made a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit (CNZM) for services to business and leadership development.

In 1979, Dr Lorigan began his CEO career by transforming Canterbury Dairy Farmers, a commodity milk company, into South Island Dairy Farmers, a nationwide provider of consumer foods and beverages. In the United Kingdom, he led Associated New Zealand Farmers Ltd. to become the largest and most profitable New Zealand importer group, increasing its market share of the New Zealand Lamb market from 13 percent to 55 percent. He chaired the New Zealand Lamb Promotional Council, enhancing the reputation of New Zealand’s primary exports in the UK in the 1980s.

He returned to New Zealand to begin a career enabling other leaders to succeed across the public, private, and not for profit sectors. He was Professor of Strategy and directed the MBA and Executive Programmes at University of Otago from 1996. In 2001, he was appointed Professor of Strategy, Director of MBA and Executive Programmes, and Associate Dean for the development of the Business School at the University of Auckland.

He subsequently founded the Institute for Strategic Leadership in 2001. The Strategic Leadership Programme now numbers many international company leaders amongst its 2,200 alumni. In 2008 Dr Lorigan developed Smart Leader Diagnostics, which provides evidenced-based team leadership tools for monitoring organisational performance.

Dr Lorigan says the award came totally unexpected and has given him an opportunity to reflect on his four careers: dairy industry, meat industry, academia / university, and strategic leader development.

“What has surfaced and been top-of-mind are all the amazing and impressive people who I co-created with along the way — colleagues, bosses, customers, suppliers, and the academics who taught and mentored me. I realise that I am a composite of all that I learnt from them, and all those experiences.

The award also validates my career and my standing in society. It will enhance my credibility and enable me to open doors and provide pathways for young people who have the potential to be the next generation of leaders. I am currently mentoring some young Afghani refugee migrants who are at university and helping them build their confidence, standing in the community, and get their careers off to a good start. The CNZM award will help in this regard.”

The Diploma in Dairy Technology was a very humble starting point for Dr Lorigan’s career. But it has been re-introduced recently, by request of the Dairy Industry, as a modern, digitally delivered Massey University qualification with practical experience gained both on the job and in block mode on our Manawatū campus. This year will see the graduation of the first of the new cohorts.

Other Massey alumni named in the 2022 New Year Honours were:

Professor Emeritus Stuart Middleton – CNZM for services to education (PhD (Education in 2003, Diploma in Second Language Teaching in 1979, Diploma in Education in 1973)
Professor Paul Moon – ONZM for services to education and historical research (PhD (Arts in 2002, Master of Philosophy in Development Studies in 1998)
Dr Rodger Fox – CNZM for services to music (Honorary Doctorate - Doctor of Music in 2005)
Dr Angela Jury – ONZM for services to victims of family and sexual violence (PhD (Arts in 2009, Bachelor of Arts in 2002 and 1999)
Dr Kathie Irwin – MNZM for services to Māori education (Master of Education in 1988, Bachelor of Education in 1979)
Detective Superintendent Peter Read – ONZM for services to the New Zealand Police and the community (Graduate Diploma Business Studies in 2001)
Superintendent Andy McGregor – ONZM for services to the New Zealand Police and the community (Bachelor of Business Studies in 2005)
Lieutenant Colonel Anthony Blythen – DSD for services to the NZ Defence Force (Bachelor of Defence Studies in 2011)
Christopher Farrelly – KNZM for services to health and the community (Graduate Diploma in Business Studies in 2016
John MacKintosh – ONZM for services to the legal profession (Graduate Diploma Business Studies in 1997)
Phillip Ker – ONZM for services to tertiary education (Master of Education Administration in 1996)
Victor Walker – ONZM for services to the Māori community (Master of Arts in 1997, Bachelor of Arts in 1988)
Shane Pakura – MZNM for services to social work (Master of Social Work in 2008, Master of Business Administration in 2002)
Patrick Newman – MNZM for services to education (Bachelor of Education in 1990)
Jessie Chan – MNZM for services to dairy and agriculture (Bachelor of Applied Science in 2000 and 2002)
Nigel Borell – MNZM for services to Māori art (Bachelor of Māori Visual Arts in 2001)
Marilyn Moffatt – MNZM for services to surf lifesaving (Bachelor of Business Studies in 1980)
George Reedy – MNZM for services to people with disabilities and the community (Master of Business Administration in 2001, Bachelor of Business Studies in 1991)
William Fleury – MNZM for services to conservation (Bachelor of Science in 1975)
Allan Stowers – MNZM for services to the Samoan community (Bachelor of Social Work in 1998)
Michele Whiting – MZNM for services to education (Master of Education Administration in 2009)
Kelly Feng – MNZM for services to health and Asian communities (Postgraduate Certificate in Arts in 2010)
Gloria McHutchon – QSM for services to the community (Certificate in Teaching English as an Additional Language in 2007)
Peter Caccia-Birch – QSM for services to the community (Diploma in Agriculture in 1962)
Glorious Oxenham – QSM for services to the Melanesian community (Graduate Diploma of Teaching in Early Childhood Education in 2013)
John Williamson – QSM for services to the community (Master of Business Studies in 1997, Postgraduate Diploma in Business and Administration in 1996, Bachelor of Business Studies in 1993, Bachelor of Agricultural Science in 1971)
Jennie Oakley – QSM for services to the community and the arts (Bachelor of Arts in 2007)

Peter Fennessy was also a New Years’ Honours awardee. He was on the Board of Massey’s ‘Food Industry Enabling Technologies’ six-year MBIE programme that spanned all the key research deliverers in the NZ food industry. Massey greatly appreciates his advice and perspective from the food industry in shaping that multi-million-dollar partnership.

KNZM: Knights and Dames of the New Zealand Order of Merit

DNZM: Dames Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit

CNZM: Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit

ONZM: Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit

MNZM: Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit

QSM: Queens’ Service Medal

DSD: New Zealand Distinguished Service Decoration

Find the full list here.

New Director to build on Centre's strengths

Tue, 18 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +1200

Massey's Centre for Defence and Security Studies has a new Director - Dr William Hoverd.

Dr William Hoverd.

Dr William Hoverd is the new Director of the Centre for Defence and Security Studies (CDSS), after Professor Rouben Azizian stepped down following five years in the role.

Dr Hoverd is a social scientist with a specific interest in New Zealand security issues and religious diversity and has been at CDSS for eight years.

Although it’s been a time of change for the Centre, which became part of the School of People, Environment and Planning in 2020, one of Dr Hoverd’s main areas of focus as director will be on developing its existing strengths.

“The Centre is doing great things and our staff are working on amazing research,” Dr Hoverd says. “We are looking at how we develop CDSS while continuing to focus and highlight our existing strengths and advantages – including our research, our strong teaching reputation and delivering professional Masters programmes to the Government.

“We remain focused on research excellence,” Dr Hoverd says. “Many of our staff are mid-career researchers and the range and depth of their research is now becoming significant.”

Examples of the research includes:

Dr Rhys Ball, Dr John Battersby, Dr Damien Rogers and Nick Nelson working on the response to the Royal Commission of Enquiry into the Christchurch mosque attacks.
Dr Anna Powles whose research on New Zealand international relations and the Pacific is internationally recognised. Dr Powles has also been nominated to be a non-residential fellow of the National Bureau of Asian Research, an independent research institute based in Seattle and Washington. Anna will be contributing to Pacific discussions.
Dr Negar Partow who is involved with research on human security, the United Nations, and women in security.
Dr Germana Nicklin, whose research includes Antarctica and border security.
Dr John Moremon and Terry Johanson whose research covers a range of historical and contemporary defence issues.
Professor Rouben Azizian who has produced special issues of the National Security Journal with the University of Stockholm on nuclear deterrents in the modern world.

As well as research, the CDSS offers hugely successful postgraduate intelligence and counter-terrorism programmes, and has the only university undergraduate programmes in defence studies, security studies and biosecurity in Aotearoa New Zealand.

“Other previous initiatives which the CDSS will continue to build on are the National Security Conference (a joint initiative with the New Zealand Government), and the National Security Journal, which is having a tangible impact by framing and responding to Government policy,” Dr Hoverd says.

Professor Glenn Banks, Head of School of People, Environment and Planning notes that one of the strengths of CDSS is the strong stakeholder relationships that have been developed over time – with the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF), the Ministry of Primary Industries, and the New Zealand Police. "The successful management of these relationships and others through the Centre’s Strategic Advisory Board is one of Professor Azizian’s achievements that has cemented the place of CDSS in the New Zealand security environment. The Centre and its staff have huge potential to extend these further, and I’m really looking forward to working on developing these with Dr Hoverd.”

Dr Hoverd says while he's still learning the ropes, he does have some definite plans for the next year. "These include working with staff on creating a new vision for CDSS and how the unit can position itself for the future security environment. I also want to promote CDSS to its stakeholders, create new opportunities, and develop teaching excellence."

“I really want to acknowledge Professor Azizian. Everyone at CDSS is proud of the initiatives he developed, including the NZDF Defence Attaché course which we will continue to develop, and the Pacific Security Dynamics training which is an annual one-week course with 35 students.”

Massey academic wins prestigious Dame Marie Clay Award

Thu, 13 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +1200

Associate Professor Sonja Macfarlane.

Associate Professor Sonja Macfarlane, Ngāti Waewae, Ngāi Tahu, from the Institute of Education has been named the 2021 winner of the New Zealand Psychological Society Dame Marie Clay Award.

The Dame Marie Clay Award recognises valuable contributions to educational and developmental psychology in New Zealand made by members of the New Zealand Psychological Society through their original research, dissemination of research and by exemplifying best practice.

“He mihi nūnui ki a koutou katoa. I am very grateful to so many others who have opened doors for me, and who have supported me in this mahi. It is a real privilege to be able to contribute to this collective journey of positive change for our whānau,” Dr Macfarlane says.

“This whakatauki sums it up for me: ‘Ehara taku toa i te toa takitahi, engari he toa takitini - Success is not the work of an individual, but the work of many.’”

Associate Professor Alison Kearney, Head of Te Kura o Te Mātauranga - Institute of Education says, “This award recognises the significant contribution that Associate Professor Macfarlane has made, and continues to make to education, particularly in relation to success for Māori learners. Her work is used widely in educational settings, supporting kaiako to reflect on their teaching and engage responsively with tamariki and their whānau.”

When announcing Dr Macfarlane’s award, The New Zealand Psychological Society,which is the largest professional association for psychologists in Aotearoa, made the following comments:

“Sonja’s many contributions to this field are marked by their practicality and academic rigour, her CV includes numerous books and articles in which relevant approaches and pathways within Mātauranga Māori are made accessible to practitioners. In sharing such strength-based practices from Te Ao Māori, Sonja places relationships at the heart of practice with and education of children and young persons. Hers is a strong voice for the Māori understanding that people, their mana, and identity, grow and are nurtured within their network of relationships.

“In her research, teaching, and practice Sonja enriches her discipline, enhances practitioners’ abilities, and benefits those with whom they practice making valuable contributions to decolonising educational practice in Aotearoa New Zealand. In making this award, the New Zealand Psychological Society concurs with those who nominated Sonja for the award, recognising her as an exemplary practitioner, effective teacher and researcher who has and continues to make significant contributions to our discipline.”

Read more about the New Zealand Psychological Society 2021 award winners here.

Professor Margaret Petty appointed to Pro Vice-Chancellor Toi Rauwhārangi, College of Creative Arts

Tue, 11 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +1200

Professor Margaret Petty starts at Massey on 7 February.

Massey University has appointed Professor Margaret Petty as Pro Vice-Chancellor Toi Rauwhārangi College of Creative Arts (CoCA).

Professor Petty has held several senior roles in tertiary education, predominately in Australia. She most recently worked at the University of Technology in Sydney as the Executive Director Innovation and Entrepreneurship. Prior to this, she was the Head of the School of Design at Queensland University of Technology and Victoria University of Wellington.

Her professional leadership experience includes serving on the boards of the World Design Organisation, StartupAUS and Cicada Innovations. She is an ambassador for Good Design Australia and was a founding member of New Zealand’s design advocacy body, DesignCo.

Professor Petty completed an undergraduate degree at the University of Oregon where she obtained a Bachelor of Arts in History. She then attended Bard Graduate Centre in New York where she completed a MA in Design History. In 2016, she graduated from Victoria University Wellington with a PhD in Design History.

She says she is conscious of the growing industry demands for innovative and creative thinkers and is experienced in developing and managing a wide spectrum of impactful initiatives, from reimagining curriculum to the creation of student entrepreneurship programs and opportunities, and transdisciplinary research groups and partnerships.

Her research broadly investigates the discourse, production, and consumption practices of the modern built environment, with a particular focus on artificial lighting and interiors. She has published broadly in academic journals such as the JSAH, Journal of Design History, Home Cultures, Interiors, and PLAT and is co-editor of Cities of Light: Two Hundred Years of Urban Illumination (Routledge, 2015) with Sandy Isenstadt and Dietrich Neumann, as well as Architectures of Display: Department Stores and Modern Retail (Ashgate, 2017) with Anca Lasc and Patricia Lara-Betancourt.

Professor Petty will join Massey on 7 February.

Massey University Vice-Chancellor Professor Jan Thomas says Professor Petty’s experience will be a huge asset to the university and CoCA.

“The interview panel and I were really impressed with Margaret’s professional experience. She has a wealth of experience as a senior leader and the proven ability to engage with the wider creative community, students and our staff. Please join me in welcoming Margaret to the Massey University whānau.”

Leptospirosis project awarded Health Research Council funding

Thu, 23 Dec 2021 00:00:00 +1200

The Health Research Council has announced funding for a project on leptospirosis, led by Professor Jackie Benschop.

Professor Jackie Benschop.

Professor Jackie Benschop from the School of Veterinary Science has received a Research Project Grant from the Health Research Council of New Zealand (HRC) for her project Enhancing leptospirosis diagnosis and outcomes for rural and Māori communities.

The grant is part of the HRC’s 2021 Health Delivery Research Investment round, which provides support for health delivery research of varying values and durations.

Professor Benschop’s grant is worth $1,399,858 over 48 months.

Successful research projects must have the potential to directly inform changes to health delivery policy, practice or systems and demonstrate a clear connection to a health care need.

Professor Benschop’s project will look at the incidence and diagnosis of leptospirosis transmission from animals to humans, and the resultant outcomes for rural and Māori communities.

“Leptospirosis is transmitted from animals to humans and in Aotearoa New Zealand is poorly ascertained with over 70 per cent of patient samples not being tested. With symptoms that can often be mistaken for the flu, coupled with a lack of public awareness about sources of transmission, the real incidence in Aotearoa is unknown,” Professor Benschop says.

She adds that as the disease is transmitted through the urine of infected animals, it can be harboured in water or soil and survive there for weeks.

Earlier research by Professor Benschop’s team identified that Māori in particular are underdiagnosed. ”The overall goal of this research is to reduce inequity through improved health outcomes via improved diagnostics and a communication campaign targeting at-risk communities, patients and clinicians in Aotearoa.”

This work builds on the team’s earlier work in Hawke’s Bay, working with Ngāti Kahungunu health providers, and has been expanded to include the Taranaki district.

More information about the grants is available here.

Quote of the Year competition open for voting

Mon, 13 Dec 2021 00:00:00 +1200

Jacinda Ardern, Mark Richardson, Anna Lorck and Jemima Gazley are in the running for Quote of the Year 2021.

The ten finalists for the best New Zealand quote of 2021 have been chosen, and the public are invited to vote for their favourite.

Finalists range from Covid Response Minister Chris Hipkins’ “spread their legs” gaffe to television presenter Mark Richardson’s comparison of the blood moon eclipse to a “half-sucked oddfellow in the sky.”

The public has until midday on Sunday 19 December to cast their vote. Click here to vote for your favourite quote.

Jibes and human moments

Massey University Speech Writing specialist and competition organiser Dr Heather Kavan says, "This year’s entries were replete with jibes at everything from Judith Collins’ character to the blood moon eclipse, with some very human moments in between.”

Political commentator Mike Williams’ description of opposition leader Christopher Luxon as “about as exciting as the Taihape public toilets” also made the list.

“It’s the sort of humour New Zealanders seem to like—not too high-brow and not too brutal. The Taihape toilets are on the Automobile Association's (AA) list of best places for travellers who need a toilet stop, so people appreciate them even if they’re not enthralling,” Dr Kavan says.

Also on the list are several spontaneous utterances including Jacinda Ardern’s “bed-time fail” when daughter Neve interrupted her Facebook livestream, and the toddler mimicking her mum’s reaction when seeing a goat in the garden.

“Spread their legs”

Dr Kavan says the "spread their legs" gaffe uttered by Chris Hipkins was the first quote the judging panel agreed on.

“The line rallied more people than the ‘team of five million’ slogan, inspiring tweets and photos with the #spreadyourlegs hashtag, as well as merchandise. Dr Ashleigh Bloomfield’s unforgettable eyebrow-raise enhanced the effect.”

The top 10

“It is a challenge in high density areas for people to get outside and spread their legs.” Covid-19 response minister Chris Hipkins’ slip of the tongue.
“He is about as exciting as the Taihape public toilets.” Commentator Mike Williams on Christopher Luxon.
"It was like a half-sucked Oddfellow in the sky." TV presenter Mark Richardson describing the first blood moon lunar eclipse in 40 years.
“If I can't be cured, I'll be the cure.” Jemima Gazley on why she crowd-funded for research on the cancer that later ended her life.
“That was a bed-time fail.” Jacinda Ardern after daughter Neve interrupts her Facebook live.
“We've got an economy that's running on a sugar hit." David Seymour on how borrowed money increases New Zealand's gross domestic product.
"Does anyone know if the tinny house in Aro will be open during level 4?" (Name withheld) post on community Facebook page Vic Deals.
“Who is going to do a Berocca in the morning?” MP Anna Lorck in Parliament.
"Hey Judith, it's not that bad. Raise an eyebrow, to show you're glad." Jono and Ben’s song to Judith Collins.
"No, it's a f__ing goat." Toddler mimicking her mum's description of a goat in her garden.

Click here to vote for your favourite quote.

Massey awards five University Research Medals for 2021

Thu, 09 Dec 2021 00:00:00 +1200

The team behind Te Rau Karamu Marae have been awarded a University Research Medal.

Te Kāhui Toi, the team of artist-designers behind the recently opened Te Rau Karamu Marae on Massey’s Pukeahu campus are among this year’s winners of the University Research Medals.

Individual recipients include Professor Shane Telfer from the College of Sciences, Professor Marlena Kruger from the College of Health, Dr Gabor Kereszturi from the College of Sciences, and Dr Trisia Farrelly from the College of Humanities and Social Sciences.

The University Research Medals are the highest awards for research bestowed by the university. Each year the University recognises the outstanding achievements of staff in the categories of: individual, early career, supervisor, team and exceptional research citizenship.

Individual recipients (clockwise from top left): Professor Shane Telfer, Professor Marlena Kruger, Dr Gabor Kereszturi and Dr Trisia Farrelly.

Massey University Provost Professor Giselle Byrnes says the Selection Committee had a tough task choosing the medal winners considering the calibre of the field this year. “The recipients we have chosen align with our research strategy and our commitment to ensure that high-quality, productive researchers are valued and celebrated. We have such world-class researchers here at Massey who are making tangible impacts in their field, and these awards make good on that commitment.”

Nominations are considered by the University Awards Selection Committee, a subcommittee of the University Research Committee. The award winners will be honoured at an awards ceremony in March 2022.

Individual Research Medal winner – Professor Shane Telfer

Professor Shane Telfer is internationally recognised for his authoritative and innovative research in the field of metal-organic frameworks. Professor Telfer’s impact on the field of framework chemistry has been transformative, encompassing conceptual advances, new research domains, and real-world applications. He has standing in the scientific community as a leader, collaborator and mentor. The Selection Committee noted Professor Telfer’s commitment to growing science understanding in Aotearoa and his record of publications and research grants over a sustained period.

Supervisor Research Medal winner – Professor Marlena Kruger

Professor Kruger has established a significant research platform for postgraduate education, as well as providing a venue for research interns from other countries to learn, participate, and be trained in bone health research. Professor Kruger is currently supervising seven doctoral students as main or co-supervisor and has done so for 22 others, (14 as main supervisor and eight as co-supervisor), as well as 18 masters students to completion in the past. Professor Kruger has published 167 peer-reviewed journal articles since 2000. The Selection Committee felt that her nomination exemplified the meaning of the supervisor award, in particular her strong commitment to advancing the careers of her students.

Early Career Research Medal winner – Dr Gabor Kereszturi

Dr Kereszturi is an early-career researcher with expertise in earth, environmental and agricultural science. His expertise bridges the gap between discovery and applied science, with innovations that have cemented Massey’s reputation as a leading New Zealand university. Dr Kereszturi has already had over 40 peer-reviewed publications, just a mere six years on from completing his PhD. He is currently a Rutherford Discovery Fellow of the Royal Society Te Apārangi, where he is working to implement hyperspectral remote sensing into volcano monitoring for the first time. The Selection Committee noted his impressive career to date, including his significant external funding success and research leadership at national and international levels.

Team Research Medal winner – Te Kāhui Toi team

The Te Kāhui Toi team, led by Professor Ngataiharuru Taepa, have created a taonga on Massey’s Pukeahu campus. Te Rau Karamu Marae is a powerful demonstration of the ability of creative practice to disseminate new knowledge and technological innovation. It champions the extraordinary skill and talent of Massey’s Māori visual arts researchers and grounds the university’s commitment to mana whenua as a manifestation of its Tiriti-led ambitions. The Marae is a space where students can be physically and emotionally immersed in tikanga, mātauranga, and te ao Māori as an integral aspect to their learning. Each member of the team was selected for their expertise, which ensured that every facet of the marae induces the mauri and mana of Massey. The Selection Committee recognises the Marae as both an exceptional and distinctive world-class piece of art, and a highly successful collective and collaborative approach to working with mana whenua to produce creative practice research at the very highest levels of excellence.

The team comprises of Wi Taepa, Kura Puke, Saffronn Te Ratana, Hemi MacGregor, Maihi Potaka, Stuart Foster, Robert Jahnke, Israel Birch, Kurt Komene and Ngataiharuru Taepa.

Exceptional Research Citizenship Medal winner – Dr Trisia Farrelly

Dr Farrelly’s academic citizenship is recognised internationally and is transforming global environmental policy. Her international work includes a personal invitation to attend and be a speaker at the invitation-only Klosters Forum in Switzerland. Following her presentation, she was invited to join the United Nations (UN) Open Ended Ad-Hoc Expert Group on Marine Litter and Microplastics in 2017. Since then, Trisia’s research contributions and additional support have been instrumental in guiding the path toward a legally binding plastic pollution treaty and the mandate for an intergovernmental negotiating committee at the UN Environmental Assembly 2021. The Selection Committee acknowledges Dr Farrelly’s commitment to driving real change in a challenging field, and the very real impact her research has had, and continues to have.

Senior lecturer wins Lecturer of the Year Award on Auckland campus

Thu, 09 Dec 2021 00:00:00 +1200

Dr Gregory Chawynski.

A senior lecturer from Massey University’s School of Built Environment has taken out the top prize at this year’s Auckland Students’ Association Lecturer of the Year (LOTY) Award, held last week.

Dr Gregory Chawynski was presented with the LOTY prize at the awards ceremony, which has been held annually since 2005 on the Auckland campus to recognise teaching excellence and support academic quality. He also won the top award for his college.

Dr Chawynski says winning the 2021 LOTY Award was an amazing experience.

“To be acknowledged at this level has confirmed that all the extra work in preparing on-line classes and providing on-going support during COVID-19 has been greatly appreciated by our students. Thank you to all my students and colleagues and of course the award would not be possible without the hard work of Penny and the whole Albany Students’ Association team who do such a great job in organising this annual event and for their tireless support of students in the past 12 months.”

There were 136 lecturers nominated for the award this year. This shows how much students have appreciated the efforts of teaching staff who have gone above and beyond in 2021, especially during long periods without face to face teaching. Each nominee will be sent a certificate showing the positive comments that students included with their nominations and will also be the recipient of a branded LOTY 2021 face mask.

You can watch the online celebration here

Ecology award the first given to a Massey recipient

Thu, 09 Dec 2021 00:00:00 +1200

Professor Doug Armstrong is the first Massey recipient of the Te Tohu Taiao Award.

Professor Doug Armstrong from the School of Agriculture and Environment has been awarded the 2021 Te Tohu Taiao Award for Ecological Excellence by the New Zealand Ecological Society.

The award recognises individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the study and application of ecological science. The award is given to the person who has published the best original research regarding the ecology of New Zealand or its dependencies, or to the person who has made a sustained and outstanding contribution to applied ecology, particularly conservation and management.

It is the first time a Massey recipient has been named the Te Tohu Taiao Award winner since its inception in 1990. Professor Armstrong’s nomination was initiated by conservation biologist and Massey PhD graduate Dr Kevin Parker, who he is currently collaborating with on a Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment-funded project on the science underlying reintroduction of endemic birds back to extensive landscapes where invasive predators are being managed.

In his nomination letter, Dr Parker says Professor Armstrong has made an outstanding contribution to ecology, conservation biology and reintroduction biology in Aotearoa New Zealand and globally. Dr Parker also talks of the critical role Professor Armstrong has played as a mentor, friend and colleague throughout his own career.

“I often find myself calling him up to discuss a particular problem, or revisiting something he has said in the past. As an early career scientist I didn’t realise just how lucky I was to grow up around people like Doug. As a mid-career scientist I recognise my good fortune has been absolutely essential in my own development as a conservation scientist, a story repeated by many other scientists.”

Professor Armstrong catching Archey's frogs in the Coromandel.

In her co-nomination letter, Dr Elizabeth Parlato of the School of Agriculture and Environment says Professor Armstrong is an outstanding researcher and mentor who has demonstrated sustained excellence in advancing the field of ecology.

“Among many things, his work has improved our ability to make management decisions in the face of uncertainty, predict reintroduction outcomes, understand the dynamics of threatened populations, and has ultimately improved the conservation status of numerous threatened species.”

Professor Armstrong says while he’s not much into awards, this one is an exception. “This award is cool because it groups me with colleagues who’ve made great contributions, including Graeme Elliott, John Innes and my good friend the late Ian Jamieson. It going to a Massey recipient is well overdue and hopefully gives general recognition to the ecology programme at Massey and especially the wildlife and ecology group.”

As part of the award, Professor Armstrong has been invited to give a plenary talk at the annual New Zealand Ecological Society Conference, which is scheduled to be held in Dunedin in late 2022.

More information about the award can be found here.

Coaching scholarship provides connections for High Performance Coordinator

Mon, 06 Dec 2021 00:00:00 +1200

Danielle Jones playing for Auckland as part of the National Hockey League.

High Performance Sport New Zealand (HPSNZ) has awarded Massey’s High Performance Coordinator Danielle Jones a place in Te Hāpaitanga coaching initiative.

Te Hāpaitanga is one of a number of HPSNZ initiatives in their ongoing commitment to Women in High Performance Sport. It is a holistic coaching development initiative designed to enable more females to pursue and maintain a career in high performance coaching in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Over 18 months, Te Hāpaitanga will provide the 16 coaches in the programme a range of opportunities that test and develop their coaching capability and allow them to develop new skills to navigate a complex and challenging career in high performance sport.

Ms Jones has been a High Performance Coordinator on Auckland’s campus since April 2019. She’s a long time hockey player, having played in all the representative age group teams for Auckland and New Zealand.

“I made my debut in 2011 when I was 19. I was in and around the national squad for six years and then had a major back injury that left me with a very tough decision to retire earlier than planned. But it led me down the road I am today. I am passionate about giving back to the sport and providing opportunities for people to play and support the small group of players wanting to take their playing ambitions to the next level,” she says.

Te Hāpaitanga connects emerging female coaches with their peers and established female high performance coaches, providing mentoring and inspiration.

The scholarship is a great opportunity to continue to develop learning as a coach, she says.

“This will really help me take my coaching to the next level. I love what I do now, but I am always interested in learning and developing more in my coaching. The other great thing is getting to connect with other like-minded women that you don’t get to meet every day.

“Te Hāpaitanga provides a connection between HPSNZ, Hockey New Zealand and me, where I get to learn and challenge myself in the areas that are going to most likely support my growth, and in time gain more permanent coaching opportunities within Hockey New Zealand. The scholarship is there to support me in any way possible to help me reach my goal of being a successful high performance coach.”

Ms Jones says she loves her role at Massey and the support she can give to athletes off the field.

“The coaching I do also helps me to support the athletes at Massey better as it keeps me connected to the high performance world and where that environment is at for athletes in New Zealand.”

Sport Advancement Manager Jacob Oram says, “It’s great to see Danielle get this opportunity to upskill and develop her coaching as there is some definite crossover between her Massey responsibilities and what she’ll gain from this external programme.

“While it’s awesome to see Danielle grow, I have no doubt that it’d also provide benefit to the high performing athletes that she interacts with here at Massey.”

Nominations open for Quote of the Year

Wed, 01 Dec 2021 00:00:00 +1200

The judging panel are looking for quotes that New Zealanders want to hear again. “These are one-liners that give people ‘yes’ moments. That may be ‘yes, that moves me deeply,’ or ‘yes, that’s so true,’ or ‘yes, that’s so embarrassing.’" - Quote of the Year organiser Dr Heather Kavan.

Dr Kavan.

What should be on this year’s list of top ten New Zealand quotes? Minister for Covid-19 Response Chris Hipkins’ “spread their legs” gaffe? A toddler's reaction to seeing a goat in her backyard? A line from Jono and Ben’s musical farewell to Judith Collins?

If there is a quote you would like New Zealanders to celebrate, we want to hear from you. The judges will then select the top ten nominations, and the public will vote for their favourite.

The quote can be spoken or written and can be from any public source, including Twitter.

Competition organiser Dr Heather Kavan from the School of Communication, Journalism and Marketing says the quote does not have to be funny. “Everyone has different tastes, and previous winning quotes have ranged from the hilarious and embarrassing to the tragic and profound.”

Last year’s winner was Sara Qasem's defiant statement at the sentencing of the Christchurch terrorist who murdered her father: “Let it be known these tears are not for you.”

Judging criteria

The judging panel are looking for quotes that New Zealanders want to hear again, Dr Kavan says.

“These are one-liners that give people ‘yes’ moments. That may be ‘yes, that moves me deeply,’ or ‘yes, that’s so true,’ or ‘yes, that’s so embarrassing.’

“The best ones usually have the maximum amount of meaning in the minimum number of words. The line has to fit onto a voting form, so we tend to choose short quotes unless a lengthy one is exceptional.”

How to nominate

First, check that the quote was said or written by a New Zealander during 2021.

Also, check that the quote is from a public source - a speech, news story, social media post, advertisement, or television show.

Then email the suggested quote to Heather Kavan. Please include the quote, the speaker’s name, a brief explanation of the context, and – if possible – a link to the source. You may want to mention why you like the quote, but this is optional.

Nominations close at midnight 8 December.

After the judging panel has chosen the ten finalists, the public has a week to vote. The winning quote will be announced before Christmas.

Latest Emeritus Professors announced

Fri, 26 Nov 2021 00:00:00 +1200

Clockwise from top left: Professors Hugh Blair, Mick Roberts, Anne de Bruin, Andy Lock, Michael Bradbury, Michael Roche and Peter Kemp.

Massey University has announced seven new Emeritus Professors conferred by the Honorary Awards Committee. Professsors Andy Lock, Michael Bradbury, Anne de Bruin, Peter Kemp, Hugh Blair, Mick Roberts and Michael Roche have all been awarded emeritus/emerita titles in recognition of their service to the university.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Jan Thomas says the recipients have all made a significant contribution to the university. “I’m incredibly proud that we have seven new emeritus/emerita professors within our ranks. These professors have not only contributed hugely to scholarship within their discipline, but have also made a continued contribution to Massey.”

The title of Professor Emeritus/Emerita is normally conferred on members of the professoriate upon retirement, who are recognised nationally as having been outstanding in their discipline and who have made an outstanding contribution to scholarship or the university, or both. They often maintain a continuing association with the university through, for example, short term contracts, research contracts, supervision of PhD students, mentorship and advice.

Professor Emeritus Andy Lock – School of Psychology

Professor Emeritus Andy Lock is recognised for his expertise across several fields and the calibre of his teaching and research. His contribution to scholarship includes more than seven books, more than 43 book chapters, 21 journal articles, 22 conference papers, 29 invited addresses, and being convenor or co-convenor of eight conferences.

Despite retiring in April 2016, Professor Emeritus Andy Lock has continued his association with Massey through continued research publications and seminar presentations.

Professor Emeritus Michael Bradbury – School of Accountancy

Professor Emeritus Michael Bradbury has been active in setting international accounting standards throughout his career, and has been recognised with a number of professional awards, including the Outstanding Contribution to Practice Award in 2001, and the Outstanding Contribution to Accounting and Finance Education Award in 2019.

Professor Bradbury joined Massey in 2006 and retired in December 2020, but currently still has three research projects, from theses, with junior staff that are progressing towards publication.

He has served on a number of editorial boards, and in a recent review of research in Australasia he was ranked in second place as the most prolific author, which contributed to Massey becoming the third ranked university in accountancy in Australasia.

Professor Emerita Anne de Bruin – School of Economics and Finance

Professor Emerita Anne de Bruin is recognised for her long-standing 44-year relationship with the university, and the significant contribution she has made during her tenure.

As founder and a director of Massey’s New Zealand Social Entrepreneurship and Innovation Research Centre, Professor de Bruin has a proven track record of bringing together researchers from Massey University and abroad, to bridge the academic-practice divide and collaboratively build an emergent scholarly field of research in social entrepreneurship and innovation and contribute to finding solutions to social challenges.

She has served on the University Research Committee, Doctoral Research Committee and Academic Board, and has held several leadership and governance roles in the Massey Business School and School of Enconomics and Finance.

Professor de Bruin retired in June this year.

Professor Emeritus Peter Kemp – School of Agriculture and Environment

Professor Emeritus Peter Kemp has received the honorary title for his contributions to research, primary industry development, postgraduate supervision teaching, and leadership at Massey. He is an internationally-renowned pastoral scientist who has published in excess of 300 scientific works.

During his time with Massey, Professor Kemp has been a supervisor or co-supervisor to 102 postgraduate students, a role he continues to do following his retirement in July this year.

Professor Kemp’s scientific expertise has been recognised by multiple industry, government and international agents and he has contributed to the development of strong links across Australia, South America and Southeast Asia that have attracted multiple postgraduate students and visiting researchers to Massey.

He is a much sought-after speaker by farmers for his applied science knowledge.

Professor Emeritus Hugh Blair - School of Agriculture and Environment

Since Professor Emeritus Hugh Blair began as a junior lecturer in 1976, his leadership, and research has led to his being internationally recognised as an expert in the field of animal breeding and genetics.

His research in developmental biology with the National Research Centre for Growth and Development led to over $4.5 million in research contracts for the university, and led to a productive period of research outputs that included 11 PhD students, 53 refereed journal articles and numerous invitations to national and international meetings.

Professor Blair has been prominent in establishing an international relationship with China which began with the signing of the first tripartite agreement between Peking University, Shihezi University and Massey University in 2005. He has published over 500 scientific works, including 336 peer-reviewed journal articles and 13 book chapters.

Professor Blair has been with Massey for 46 years, and plans to retire in April 2022.

Professor Emeritus Mick Roberts – School of Natural and Computational Sciences

Professor Emeritus Mick Roberts is one of the leading experts on the global spread and distribution of diseases using modelling by solving complicated coupled differential equations. He has been awarded four Marsden grants as well as a Health Research Council grant, on which he was principal investigator.

Professor Roberts was elected a fellow of the Royal Society of New Zealand in 2008, and fellow of the New Zealand Mathematical Society in 2015. Since beginning at Massey in 2003, he has held a number of leadership and supervisorial roles. He has also held visiting positions at Oxford University, Cambridge University, Utrecht University and Melbourne University.

Despite being set to retire in March 2022, Professor Roberts will continue his research projects and as a PhD supervisor.

Professor Emeritus Michael Roche – School of People, Environment and Planning

Professor Emeritus Michael Roche is being recognised as being one of the most influential and collegial contributors to the discipline of geography within New Zealand for several decades. He has made many significant contributions to the New Zealand Geographical Society (NZGS) over four decades, including developing the biological economies sub-field. In 2001 he was awarded life membership of the NZGS, and in 2010 was awarded the NZGS Distinguished New Zealand Geographer Medal, the highest award bestowed by the NZGS.

Professor Roche has been involved in most of the university’s committees at school, college, and university level. In 2017, he was awarded a rare Doctor of Literature, an academic title given to established and accomplished scholars.

Professor Roche has been with Massey since 1983 and intends to retire in February 2022.

Award-winning sauerkraut inspired by the whenua

Thu, 25 Nov 2021 00:00:00 +1200

The Wild Fermentary's Smoky Kāpeti won the Massey University Supreme Award, and the Chilled Award, sponsored by Massey University at the 2021 New Zealand Food Awards.

Chia Sisters’ Immunity Hot Tonic won the Beverage Award, sponsored by Food
Innovation Network.

Dancing Sands’ Sauvignon Blanc Gin won the Novel Award, sponsored by KiwiSo.

Beard Brothers’ Pork and Cress won the Artisan Award, sponsored by Cuisine Magazine.

A fermented sauerkraut with pūhā (sow thistle) has won the Massey University Supreme Award at the New Zealand Food Awards.

The Wild Fermentary from the Auckland suburb of Clevedon took out the top prize for its Smoky Kāpeti. The business specialises in all things fermented, and uses ingredients like dandelion, stinging nettle, nasturtium and pūhā for their ferments.

Head judge Kay McMath says the Smoky Kāpeti is a celebration of the evolving New Zealand fermentation scene.

“This is a powerful New Zealand food story, and hits the perfect balance between the traditional art and the modern science of fermentation. The Wild Fermentary have used wild foraged pūhā that is dehydrated to extend its season, locally grown jalapenos and a natural wild fermentation process that is carefully monitored and adjusted to enable bold flavours with minimal variances.

“The company ensures all parts of the ingredients are utilised in some way, and has established flexible ways of working to enable members of the wider community to participate in production. Innovative, sustainable and truly excellent, this product is unique and exciting,” she adds.

The Smoky Kāpeti also won the Chilled Award, sponsored by Massey University. There were more than 170 entries vying for the top spot this year, with 66 finalists from 45 companies across New Zealand.

Massey University Vice-Chancellor Professor Jan Thomas says in a time when in-person events are difficult to manage, it was exciting to host the first ever virtual New Zealand Food Awards celebration.

“As New Zealand’s leading online study provider, Massey is well practiced at operating online, but this was a new challenge for our events team to pivot from what is traditionally a large gala dinner. While it was disappointing to not be able to host the awards in Manawatū as originally planned, we are hopeful next year we will be able to celebrate together in Palmerston North, another first for the awards.

“To tonight’s winners - the awards might look a little different this year, but the sentiment remains the same. You are the best of the best. COVID-19 has taken a huge toll on many and businesses have had to change the way they do everything, so I want to congratulate the finalists and winners for not only surviving in this tough climate, but thriving. I wish you all a huge congratulations.”

The New Zealand Food Awards also announced the winner of the Product Lifetime Achievement Award, sponsored by AsureQuality. The award, which was introduced in 2019, celebrates Kiwi products that have withstood the test of time. Vogel’s won for its Original Mixed Grain Bread, beating other iconic Kiwi products – Wattie’s Tomato Sauce and Whittaker’s Peanut Slab.

Kiwis were also able to take part in the judging this year, as part of the People’s Choice campaign. After the success of the special Food Hero Awards last year, the awards programme introduced a new Food Hero award for 2021, sponsored by Palmerston North City Council. This award celebrates people or organisations that continuously support the New Zealand food and beverage supply chain in some way. The judges selected the finalists, but the winner was determined by public vote.

Oakley’s Premium Fresh Vegetables Ltd from Southbridge in Canterbury took out the People’s Choice prize. The family-owned business grow, harvest, pack and sell fresh produce all year round, including varieties of potatoes, broccoli, beetroot and pumpkin.

Other category winners included: Chia Sisters’ Immunity Hot Tonic, winners of the Beverage Award, sponsored by Food Innovation Network; Dancing Sands’ Sauvignon Blanc Gin, winner of the Novel Award, sponsored by KiwiSo; and Beard Brothers’ Pork and Cress, winner of the Artisan Award, sponsored by Cuisine Magazine.

The New Zealand Food Awards have celebrated New Zealand’s food and beverage manufacturers, focusing on innovation, sustainability and excellence, since 1987. Powered by Massey University, the awards are open to small and large food and beverage manufacturers, primary food producers, food service providers and ingredient supply companies.

Finalist and winning products earn the New Zealand Food Award’s quality mark to highlight their technical capability, consumer acceptability, regulatory compliance and food quality and safety to shoppers and industry.

The awards programme is made possible with the support of Massey University, Palmerston North City Council, New Zealand Food Safety, Countdown, AsureQuality, Cuisine Magazine, BNZ, KiwiSo, New Zealand Trade and Enterprise, Villa Maria, FMCG Business, FoodHQ, The Food Innovation Network, XPO and The New Zealand Institute of Food Science & Technology Ltd.

Massey University Supreme Award

The Wild Fermentary – Smoky Kāpeti

Product Awards

Artisan Award – Sponsored by Cuisine

Beard Brothers – Pork and Cress

Below Zero Award – Sponsored by FoodHQ

Let’s Eat – Plant-Based Golden Nuggets

Beverage Award – Sponsored by Food Innovation Network

Chia Sisters – Immunity Hot Tonic

Chilled Award – Sponsored by Massey University

The Wild Fermentary – Smoky Kāpeti

Health and Wellbeing Award – Sponsored by Countdown

Food Nation – Magic Mince - Mexican, Corn & Red Pepper

Novel Award – Sponsored by KiwiSo

Dancing Sands – Sauvignon Blanc Gin

Pantry Award – Sponsored by Countdown

Vince – Vegetable Mince - Mexican Style

Primary Sector Award – Sponsored by New Zealand Food Safety

Hemp Connect – Hemp Hearts

Product Lifetime Achievement Award – Sponsored by AsureQuality

Vogel’s – Original Mixed Grain Bread

Business Awards

Business Innovation Award – Sponsored by BNZ

Froth Technologies

Food Safety Culture Award – Sponsored by New Zealand Food Safety

Little ‘Lato

Community Awards

Food Hero Award – Sponsored by Palmerston North City Council

Oakley’s Premium Fresh Vegetables Ltd