Ara celebrates the people behind its success 

_{The Celebration of Our People Awards were held alongside the 70s themed end of year event at City campus}

Amid the busyness of December – Ara Institute of Canterbury has taken time to reflect and celebrate the dedicated kaimahi (staff) at the forefront of its campuses across the Waitaha takiwā (Canterbury region).

Colleagues recently gathered in both Timaru and Ōtautahi for the annual Southern Spirit and Celebration of our People awards which were incorporated into the end-of-year events as teaching wrapped up for 2025.

In Timaru, kaimahi marked the end of the year with a shared meal at Saikou, a graduate-owned restaurant. In Christchurch, a 70s theme was embraced as lunch was shared outdoors on the City campus. Best costume awards celebrated some standout outfits.

The annual awards acknowledge the everyday impact of Ara’s people, from those at the start of their teaching careers to colleagues marking decades of service.

“As I read the statements about our award winners, I was struck by how often their adaptability and care for others came through,” said executive director and incoming chief executive Darren Mitchell.

“Many of our people have taken on new responsibilities well outside their comfort zones in response to the changes of recent years. While today we recognise a small group of kaimahi, I want to thank everyone at Ara for the way you’ve responded, supported each other and continued to deliver for students.”

This year’s awards celebrated excellence across a wide range of areas, including research, hauora and wellbeing in education, inclusive learning environments, partnerships and industry connection, and emerging teaching practice.

Timaru kaimahi recognised

In Timaru, Southern Spirit awards were presented to colleagues who consistently go above and beyond in their roles and make a positive difference to students and their teams. Recipients were: 

• Leighton Ackroyd, for exceptional organisation, adaptability and support 
• Ivan Embling, for calm, reliable support of apprentices 
• Katherine Harris, a go-to problem solver who supports students and colleagues across student services, facilities and events 
• Tash Joyce, for consistent, high-quality teaching and pastoral care  
• Linda Hepburn, for adaptable, student-centred support in learning and disability services 
• Steven the wellbeing pug, winner of the ‘Diamond in the Ruff’ award, for bringing joy and connection to the Timaru campus community

Awards for Ōtautahi-based kaimahi

_{Dr Dominic Chilvers received the Excellence in Research Award}

Dr Dominic Chilvers received the Excellence in Research Award for his sustained contribution to high-quality, high-impact research in social work. His work focuses on field education and student placements, alongside building a strong and collaborative research culture within the Bachelor of Social Work.

The Hauora and Wellbeing in Education category recognised kaiako (academic staff) who create learning environments where students feel safe, supported and able to thrive. Awards were presented to Katrina Fisher, Jodie Burland and Jody Pehrson for their commitment to wellbeing across all dimensions of te whare tapa whā (the four dimensions of wellbeing). 

Inclusive Learning Environment Awards went to Shari Young and Fiona Miller, recognising their student-centred approaches and the care they provide to diverse cohorts across Ara. 

The New to Teaching Awards celebrated emerging kaiako Kate Pearson, Te Kurawhiti Hitchens and Nay Lin Oo, each recognised for their initiative, adaptability and strong commitment to inclusive, student-focused teaching practice early in their careers.

Partnerships and Industry Connection Awards were presented to Jocelyn Kidd, Zoe Steele and Roger Bleyendaal. Their work highlights the importance of strong, reciprocal relationships with industry and community partners, providing students with real-world experience and supporting graduates to be work ready and connected to the communities they serve. 

Ara’s Recognition Awards acknowledged colleagues who demonstrate the institute’s values of Hono (connect), Hihiri (inspire) and Aroha (respect) through their mahi. Recipients included Amanda Lawson, Mere Kikau, Dean Patfield, Ree Jones-Hansen and Lynn Torgerson, each recognised for their leadership, care and contribution to equity, inclusion, safety and wellbeing across the organisation.

Long service recognised

_{Darren Mitchell with Dr Selena Chan (left) and Mere Kikau (right)}

The event also acknowledged colleagues celebrating significant long service milestones, recognising decades of dedication to vocational education at Ara. 

This year’s long service recipients were:

• 45 years: Dr Selena Chan, Stuart Goodall
• 35 years: Craig Erickson, Kerry Horsham, Anna Richardson
• 30 years: Rea Daellenbach, Katrina Fisher, Craig Manson, Tracey McGill, Ian Patterson, Darren Pickering, Alison Rutherford, Jane Schollum
• 25 years: Caillyn Benbow, Jean Cory-Wright, Thomas Cronje, Mary Fitzpatrick, Gaynor Hurst, Katharina Jaeger, Nigel Jamieson, Tricia Lewis, Cheryl Stokes

Students give thanks

_{Emma Robertston congratulates Kate Pearson on her student award}

Student-Led Awards, nominated by ākonga (students), recognised kaimahi (staff) who make a lasting difference to the student experience through energy, care, high standards and connection.

• The Vibe: Michelle Moynes, Kate Pearson, Nic Bartlett, Nick Croy, Angelique Healey 
• The Standard Setter: Rachelle Sowman, Kelly Evans, Amanda Winter, Tina Falconer, Mike Parr 
• The Pou: Craig Maguire 
• The Student’s Choice: Khrissy Paynter, Kerstin Dofs

As the year draws to a close, the events provided a chance to say thank you to the people who support Ara’s students every day.