Palu Navigator

Job Description:

• Empower Pacific learners on their education journey
• Build meaningful connections with families and communities
• Contribute to culturally grounded programmes and initiatives

Ngā kōrero mō te tūranga – About the role

Inspired by traditional Pacific wayfinders, the Palu Navigator plays a vital role in guiding Pacific learners on their journey into and through university study.

In this role, you will work closely with students, families, schools, and communities to help navigate pathways into tertiary education and support success during the transition into university life. You will provide one-on-one guidance, connect learners with knowledge and resources right services, and contribute to programmes that uplift Pacific achievement and aspirations.

This is a highly relational and purpose-driven role where your ability to build trust, nurture connections, and work in culturally responsive ways will make a real difference. You will also support the delivery of workshops, events, and outreach initiatives that strengthen engagement with Pacific communities and increase participation in higher education.

Salary will be in the range of $60,046 to $72,636 per year based on skills, knowledge and experience brought to the position. This is a full-time, permanent role (37.5 hours a week), based on our Hamilton Campus.

For more information on the role please see the position description. For a confidential conversation about the role, please contact Dr Keaka Hemi, Assistant Vice-Chancellor Pacific, keaka.hemi@waikato.ac.nz. All applications must be submitted through the online portal, emailed applications will not be accepted.

Ko wai koe? – Who are you?

You are passionate about supporting Pacific learners to succeed and are committed to working in ways that honour Pacific values, identities, and communities.

You bring warmth, humility, and a genuine desire to serve others. You are confident building relationships and can engage effectively with students, families, schools, and community groups.

You will also have:

• Experience working with Pacific learners, families, or communities
• Strong cultural competence and understanding of Pacific perspectives
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
• The ability to organise, prioritise, and manage multiple activities
• A relevant tertiary qualification or equivalent experience

Fluency in a Pacific language and experience in tertiary education or student support environments would be an advantage

Ko wai mātou? – Who are we?

The AVC Pacific portfolio, also known as Pacific at Waikato (PaW), currently delivers eight programmes ranging from high school and transition into study to higher degrees, research and professional development which are designed to smooth and create pathways through cultural legacies of learning and leadership.

Pacific at Waikato (PaW) leads the University’s commitment to advancing Pacific success, wellbeing, and aspirations. Our work is grounded in Pacific values such as alofa/ofa/aloha (care), tautua (service), manaakitanga (respect and support), and sautu (collective wellbeing). We work alongside students, families, and communities to strengthen pathways into education and support lifelong success.

He aha ngā take me tono mai ai koe? – Why should you apply for this position?

We want you to be part of our success! Our university stands proudly on the world stage as a provider of future-focused, international education and an active player in global research. Our rankings reflect these strengths. Working with us means you’ll enjoy a satisfying work environment with many benefits.

The University of Waikato is distinctive for the diversity of its staff and students and encourages applicants with the relevant capabilities from all backgrounds to apply. Applicants must have the legal right to live and work in NZ in accordance with the NZ Immigration regulations which can be found here.

Ko te Tangata – For the People

The University of Waikato prides itself on the quality of its engagement with the communities that it serves, the provision of a world-class education and the national and international impact of its research. Our policies are guided by the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi and equal opportunity for all.

E herea ana te Whare Wānanga ki te kaupapa kia whakaratohia te mea angitū ōrite ki ngā tāngata katoa.

Applications Close on Monday April 27, 2026

Requisition number: 1003565