Tomoko Dinnis joins the International Department as the International Students Administrator Assistant.

Tomoko has over 20 years of work experience in the NZ education sector, she was also once an international student studying in New Zealand and the UK. Therefore, she is able to relate to the challenges and difficulties international students and their families may face and can provide them with first-hand solutions and suggestions. 

Throughout her career, providing excellent student support with compassion and empathy has always been of paramount importance in delivering her professional duties. She loves seeing students blossom as they navigate through their educational journey in New Zealand. 

She is passionate about supporting people from various cultural backgrounds as she strongly believes learning about other cultures promotes respect, transforming people into empathetic and open-minded individuals.

Tumanawa Tawhai has joined our Support Services team as a Māori Youthworker. 

With a rich background shaped by life experiences on the Marae around Māori tikanga and kawa, as well as playing and coaching rugby overseas, Tumanawa possesses the skills to support and inspire students. He is committed to creating a safe environment for open dialogue, assisting in conflict resolution, and helping rangatahi maintain their connection to their identity and aspirations. 

Tumanawa played rugby professionally in the UK for 10 months and most recently spent 6 years in Japan, where he represented the national 7's Rugby team. Additionally, he has represented New Zealand in Open Men's Touch Rugby.