Paora Ammunson confirmed as new Deputy Vice-Chancellor Māori

Mr Ammunson stepped into the interim role in February this year, following the resignation of Professor Meihana Durie in late 2024.

The university recently completed a thorough external recruitment process and the selection panel’s decision to appoint Mr Ammunson was unanimous.

Mr Ammunson’s most recent position was as the Deputy Chief Executive at Te Pūkenga where he was responsible for Academic Quality, Digital and Information Technology, International, Learner Success and Student Services, Research and Tiriti Outcomes.

Prior to Te Pūkenga, he worked at the Tertiary Education Commission.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Jan Thomas thanked Mr Ammunson for his work at Massey to date. “It’s been an absolute pleasure working alongside Paora for the past six months, and I know the office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Māori is in very safe hands under his guidance and leadership.”

Mr Ammunson says it is an honour to follow in the foot-steps of his predecessors in the role. “I am looking forward to helping drive Massey’s commitment to being Tiriti-led and to deeply embed this in both what we do, and how we do it.

“By way of example, there are great opportunities to support qualifications and career paths into the Māori food and fibre economy. This is a major iwi and regional priority. Our academic leadership in mātauranga and te reo is very strong. The work ahead around lifting Māori student achievement is exciting. These are some of the many challenges and opportunities ahead of us. I feel very grateful to be able to play a role in these important kaupapa for Massey.”

The Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Māori is responsible for Massey’s relationships with local mana whenua, iwi and hapū, and has close links with Māori staff and students. They also play a leading role in supporting the university to honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi.