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Reading Time: 2 minutes Massey University and Northland Inc regional development unit have signed a heads of agreement for a partnership covering education, research and innovation. The agreement is called Waka Hourua and draws on the symbolism of a double-hulled voyaging canoe. For Te Tai Tokerau (Northland), the shared purpose is primary industries and the supporting systems for education, training and research, which still have untapped potential across the region. The agreement establishes a platform for collaboration between the university, Northland Inc, iwi, local schools and industry. It sets out shared priorities that include: • Supporting secondary schools to deliver quality learning in agriculture, horticulture, food technology and environmental management. • Co-developing tertiary pathways from Level 1-3 training through to advanced qualifications and degrees. • Growing regional research partnerships, including with Northland Agricultural Research Farm, the Kaipara Moana Restoration project, Ngāwhā Innovation and Enterprise Park, and iwi-led initiatives in food and fibre. • Exploring the development of micro-credentials and short-courses that respond directly to local workforce needs. • Working toward a physical Massey presence within the planned Whangārei Knowledge Hub, ideally by mid-2026, including the appointment of two roles based in Northland. The agreement was signed by Northland Inc board chair Suzanne Duncan and Massey University Vice-Chancellor Jan Thomas. Thomas said Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey’s roots are in agriculture, horticulture and applied food technology and it is committed to supporting the regions and co-designing education and research that reflects the unique strengths and aspirations of Te Tai Tokerau.“Massey’s core mission has always been about creating enduring impact for learners, for communities, and for the land. “As the leading distance education provider in New Zealand, we want to see more of our students studying in the regions, more research projects embedded in local contexts, and more collaboration that connects knowledge with practice.” Duncan said that by bringing Massey’s expertise into the region and aligning it with local priorities, Northland Inc is creating opportunities that stay in schools, on farms, and in communities.
