Our place in the Pacific | Making a real difference

The name Waipapa Taumata Rau was gifted to the University of Auckland by the people of Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei and reflects our significant partnership with them and the commitments made through Taumata Teitei, including to the principles of manaakitanga, kaitiakitanga and whanaungatanga. The name challenges us to understand that we are part of a whakapapa of historic and current relationships. It also reflects the aspiration of the University of Auckland to be the ‘place of many peaks’, the place where we strive for, ascend to succeed and thrive.

The University of Auckland Waipapa Taumata Rau is a global leader in teaching and research about the Pacific Islands and Ocean and further afield. Much of this stems from New Zealand and the University’s special relationships with Pacific peoples. New Zealand is commonly understood as a Pacific nation and has strong historical, cultural, social and economic ties with the Pacific Islands and the wider Asia region. These connections are why Auckland is the world’s largest Polynesian city.

Work-life balance and flexible working

We are committed to providing our employees with an excellent work environment by implementing flexible employment practices and conditions that foster a harmonious balance between work, personal life, and family.

The University is committed to supporting your career with excellent research, teaching and campus facilities, generous Research & Study Leave, and a full range of research and leadership development programmes.

Professional staff follow a 37.5-hour work week (Academic staff: 40-hour work week), ensuring a reasonable and manageable workload. Moreover, many of our positions allow for flexible start and finish times through our flexible hours’ policy, enabling you to align your schedule with what suits you best.

Depending on the specific demands of your role, we also provide the opportunity to work from home for a portion of the week. This arrangement takes into account the evolving nature of work and acknowledges the potential benefits of remote work.

By prioritising flexibility, we strive to create an environment that supports our employees’ well-being and empowers them to achieve healthy work-life integration.

For more information, please visit Staff Benefits and Career Development.

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Fale Pasifika
Selina Tusitala Marsh

Tell your tale or someone else will
...or won't.

I inspire people by performing my poetry, telling my tale and helping others find theirs.

Professor Selina Tusitala Marsh
New Zealand Poet Laureate

Find out more