Student advisors
Awhi Tauira (Student Support)
Our Specialised team of Student Support Advisors can help get you sorted before and during your learning journey.
Our Services
- StudyLink Guidance
- Emergency financial support
- Overcoming Barriers to Your Studies
- Concern & Complaints Support
- Referrals to other student services ( Counselling, well-being, careers, Academic support, Library)
- Work-life balance Plans
- Foodbank Parcels ( 1 per student with info for local mainstream Foodbanks)
How to contact your Student Advisor
Email: wecare@manukau.ac.nz
Freephone: 0800 696 487
They're available from Monday - Friday, 8.30 am - 4:30 pm and are located on the following campuses:
- MIT Ōtara | Dilworth Building, NA Block
- MIT Manukau | The second floor
- MIT TechPark | The main lobby
- MIT Mahurangi & MIT Maritime CBD | Distant support provided via call or video call
Meet your Student Support Advisors
Name: Trisha Edwards
Ethnicity: Māori
Home country/city: Tamaki Makaurau
Campus: Techpark
WHAT DO I DO FOR MY WELLNESS?
"Watch a good TV series or do some reading."
MY SURVIVAL TIP FOR STUDIES
"Don't stress the little stuff, and don't be afraid to ask questions if you don't know."
Name: Laisa Turaga
Ethnicity: Fijian
Home country/city: Fiji
Campus: Ōtara
WHAT DO I DO FOR MY WELLNESS?
"I enjoy the outdoors, especially climbing, walking, and studio fitness. Spending time with family and good friends plays a big part in my wellness."
MY SURVIVAL TIP FOR STUDIES
"Support is always available. You are not alone in this journey. Reach out for help in any circumstances."
Name: Arpana Choudhary
Ethnicity: Indian
Home country/city: India, Delhi
Campus: Techpark
WHAT DO I DO FOR MY WELLNESS?
"Spending time with family, playing with my cat, art projects and reading books"
MY SURVIVAL TIP FOR STUDIES
"Set your goals, focus on them and just do it."
Name: Pani-Te-Huatahi McLean
Ethnicity: NZ Māori - Ngati Porou
Home country/city: Tamaki Makaurau
Campus: Manukau
WHAT DO I DO FOR MY WELLNESS?
"Listen to music, video chat with whanau and friends and plan the next holiday destination."
MY SURVIVAL TIP FOR STUDIES
"If you don't know where you're going, any road will take you there."
Name: Klair De La Cruz
Ethnicity: Filipino
Home country/city: Philippines
Campus: Ōtara
WHAT DO I DO FOR MY WELLNESS?
"I love cooking, baking, and singing karaoke at home, but what I enjoy the most is spending time with my family and friends."
MY SURVIVAL TIP FOR STUDIES
"Always concentrate on your goals, surround yourself with positive people, and don't hesitate to ask for advice if you have any doubts.”