The Social Eatery was launched at the beginning of this semester, offering affordable and tasty meal options for staff and students.

The aim was to raise funds to purchase new equipment for our Whaikaha learners.

The initiative, held each Friday at Te Puna Events Kitchen, also provided work-based learning opportunities for the second year Whaikaha cohort.

“The Social Eatery has been a great success, and we will be rolling this enterprise into 2026,” says Dave Hicks, Academic Programme Manager, Supported Learning.

“The funds raised will go to updating resources for Whaikaha students in our social space, as well as purchasing some kitchen tools.”

Social Eatery coordinator and Lecturer, Lynette Solomon says the team was grateful to all those who supported their mahi.

“Our heartfelt thanks to all our customers. Their encouragement, patronage, generosity and involvement have made a meaningful difference,” she says.

Lynette acknowledged leadership, especially Dave Hicks, Sue Emerson and Maree Lightfoot for believing in this kaupapa, and everyone else who contributed to the success.

Ms Solomon says her students spent four months learning health and safety food preparation before the launch.

From learning how to operate an EFTPOS machine to making delicious hot dogs and burgers, the Whaikaha learners gained real world skills which they were able to put into action.

The tauira involved say they have learned a lot from the experience and enjoyed being part of the wider Unitec whānau.

“This experience has improved my confidence and communication skills,” says Jasmine.

“Meeting new people was so awesome. I loved every moment and seeing everyone enjoy the meals we made,” says Eta.

Ms Solomon says the positive feedback they received from kaimahi every week inspired the whole team. This saw them continually striving to improve the quality of service and product.

“Best food ever, best prices, we will miss you all. Come back in 2026 please,” a staff member wrote.

“Food and service was the best. Always made my Friday's and I loved coming in to support the students. Thank you for all your service and great food,” wrote another.

“He reka rewa te kai. Very tasty and nicely presented kai - thank you. Great service as well.”

“Hope that this happens next year.”

Mr Hicks hinted at changes next year to improve the delivery of the initative, which will roll out in Semester Two.

“We hope to have more presence in Te Puna by running the Social Eatery on a Wednesday (instead of Fridays), and using some of the profit from 2025 to provide more variety in the food we can serve.”