Our research and cultural links with Aotearoa New Zealand have been strengthened through an executive-level visit and the signing of a new partnership agreement.
We have close connections with institutions, communities, and alumni across Aotearoa New Zealand. These include partnerships on energy, space science, and cultural heritage.
A delegation led by our Vice-Chancellor Professor Karen O’Brien visited established and emerging partners across the country.
These included the University of Auckland Waipapa Taumata Rau; Te Pūnaha Ātea, the University of Auckland Space Institute; the Auckland War Memorial Museum Tāmaki Paenga Hira; and the University of Otago – Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka.
Professor O’Brien signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the University of Auckland, deepening our commitment to collaboration with the institution which, like Durham, is ranked in the QS World University Rankings world top 100.
We share research strengths in clean energy, marine science, infrastructure resilience, space, and transformative humanities.
The MoU will help us work together further on international research projects, including through Horizon Europe.
During a visit to the Auckland War Memorial Museum Tāmaki Paenga Hira, the Vice-Chancellor discussed a partnership which has seen a culturally significant Māori cloak, or pauku, loaned from our Oriental Museum to the Museum.
Supported by the British Council and Creative New Zealand, this special partnership centres on the pauku through a five-year research project and exhibition loan. The pauku is one of only six known examples worldwide to incorporate a distinctive two-directional tāniko border weaving technique.
Over the course of the five-year project, researchers, museum professionals, and kairaranga Taumata Māreikura (expert weavers) will explore the cloak’s origins, history, and cultural significance, while supporting the continuation of traditional weaving and indigenous knowledge.
At the University of Otago – Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka, colleagues joined the annual Executive Board meeting of the Matariki Network of Universities. The programme began with a Māori welcome (pōwhiri) at the Ōtākou Marae, one of the most historically significant Māori sites in the South Island (Te Waipounamu), reflecting the Network’s distinctive commitment to indigenous knowledge, perspectives and partnership. Discussions at the meeting focused on shared priorities including indigenous engagement, sustainable development, student opportunities and collaborative research, all highlighting the unique role that indigenous perspectives play in shaping the Matariki Network’s global outlook.
Finally, with approximately 250 Durham graduates based across the country, we hosted an alumni reception where we shared news from the University and renewed connections and friendships.
Aotearoa New Zealand is an important partner for Durham University. Our connections span research, culture, students, alumni, and more. It was a pleasure to visit the country, and connect in-person with such valued partners and friends.
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