The University of Waikato has presented an honorary award to Tamati Tata (Ngāi Tamarāwaho) recognising his service to the university as kaumātua at its Tauranga campus and his contribution to the wider Bay of Plenty community.

Vice-chancellor Professor Neil Quigley presented Tamati with the University of Waikato Medal at a ceremony on Tuesday, November 26.

Tata has been instrumental in shaping the Tauranga campus’ cultural identity, Quigley said.

“Tamati’s guidance during the development phase of the Tauranga campus influenced the award-winning campus design and ensured the cultural narrative of Tauranga Moana was thoughtfully integrated. He also played a pivotal role in the opening ceremonies, including the dawn ceremony in February 2019 and the public opening in April 2019.”

In his role as kaumātua, Tata plays a significant role in contributing to the welcoming and inclusive culture that students, staff, and community experience when visiting the Tauranga campus.

He supports key university activities and events, including meetings of the University Council within the tribal domain of Tauranga Moana, and offering cultural leadership throughout a student’s journey, from ceremonial welcomes at the start of the academic year to leading graduation ceremonies.

Tamati Tata speaking after receiving the University of Waikato Medal. Photo / Supplied

He is an essential connector for the university, providing leadership in the engagement with iwi and supporting its growth aspirations across the Bay of Plenty.

Tata is also recognised for playing an active role within organisations across the Bay of Plenty. He leads ceremonies such as the openings of schools and highways, provides advice to Tauranga City Council and various community groups, and supports the marae communities of Tauranga Moana, including his home marae of Huria, Ngāi Tamarāwaho.

He sits on the board of Mauao Trust, the entity that governs Mauao on behalf of Tauranga Moana iwi, and Ngā Mātarae Charitable Trust, a partnership between the Port of Tauranga and Tauranga iwi to promote the wellbeing of Te Awanui Tauranga harbour.

Tata is also an alumnus of the university. He began his studies in the 1980s in the Department of Māori Studies, and in 2006 he received a Bachelor of Arts with first-class honours, majoring in Māori.