Government support reaffirms Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology’s commitment to regional vocational education

Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology has welcomed recent funding decisions that would enable it to continue delivering high-quality vocational education in the South Waikato.

The announcement follows the confirmation of strategic funding from the Tertiary Education Commission designed to help Institutes of Technology and Polytechnics (ITPs) maintain provision that is strategically important during the transition from Te Pūkenga  

Despite an earlier proposal to cease campus-based delivery in Tokoroa and Taupō, Toi Ohomai Executive Director Kieran Hewitson said the announcement that Toi Ohomai had secured extra funding would allow the institute to continue delivery at its regional campuses.  

Toi Ohomai recently consulted with kaimahi (staff) on a new structure and operating model to ensure financial sustainability as they move back to independence.  

“We have taken onboard kaimahi and stakeholders feedback throughout the consultation process. While we have still had to make some difficult decisions, the announcement of this funding provides us with the opportunity to continue to work closely with stakeholders to identify needs while maintaining delivery of programmes.

“We are committed to continuing to work with stakeholders to identify the workforce development needs of the region and the role that Toi Ohomai can play in responding to those needs by providing ongoing, relevant education and training.”  

Toi Ohomai has been working closely with stakeholders throughout this time including the South Waikato District Council and local MP Louise Upston.  

Upston thanked Toi Ohomai and the stakeholders who came together to collaborate on the future of vocational education in Tokoroa and Taupō.  

“I am pleased to see face to face learning will continue as we know that education across our region needs to remain accessible and be aligned with the needs of local employers and learners. We know the importance that Toi Ohomai plays in our community, and we need to ensure real opportunities and pathways continue and are locally driven.”

The Government’s recent confirmation that Toi Ohomai will become one of ten standalone polytechnics in 2026 marks a significant milestone in the institute’s journey toward regional autonomy. It also signals confidence in Toi Ohomai’s financial sustainability and strategic direction.

“While the delivery of education and training may look different moving forward, our focus remains on equitable outcomes for all learners, regardless of where they reside,” Hewitson added.