When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Emilio Bargiacchi, like most people, was stuck at home. But his job wasn’t something he could do online. Not one to sit around and twiddle his thumbs, he decided it was time for a career change.

It required the seasoned researcher to look at whether institutionalising the free-thinking and artful world of slams, backsides and carves was going to help or hinder its unique DNA – whether what’s traditionally been referred to as a counter-cultural activity could ever be forced to conform as a buttoned-down sport.

The International Olympic Committee announced the inclusion of skateboarding as an Olympic sport in 2016, and it made its debut at the Tokyo 2020 Games.  

Led by Yu Shujiang, Party Secretary of HUE, the delegation included faculty deans and the Director of International. The visit began with a traditional powhiri to welcome the guests and featured a significant joint program agreement signing between Gus Gilmore, DCE Ako Delivery at Te Pūkenga, and Yu Shujiang.

In the heart of Unitec's School of Architecture, Maia Ratana, a distinguished lecturer and Kaupapa Māori Researcher, stands as a beacon of innovation and cultural reverence. Her work in Māori housing design transcends the conventional, weaving together traditional Māori principles with modern architectural practices. This article delves into Maia's journey, illuminating her contribution to both the academic field and the community.

Space is more than the final frontier - it’s a commodity that can change a creative’s world.

Head of School for Unitec - Te Pūkenga’s Creative Industries programmes, Associate Professor Vanessa Byrnes knows full well the impact it can have.

“I’ve always thought it was a strange irony that in our profession, one of the few resources you need is space to work in - but it’s the most unaffordable thing to have in Auckland.