
The university’s annual Māori Research Symposium, established in 2023 and led by Professor Tania Ka’ai and Te Ipukarea Research Institute. The symposium brings together Māori researchers at all stages from senior academics to postgraduate students to share research, methodologies, and innovative thinking that demonstrates the impact of Māori research across Aotearoa.
The tohu designed in 2024 by AUT graduate Matangireia Yates-Francis (Te Arawa, Te Aitanga-a-Mahaki, Rongowhakaata, Ngāti Maniapoto) draws inspiration from Tāne-te-Wānanga. Tāne stands at the apex, with a central takarangi symbolising knowledge. Raparapa forms evoke the sheltering wings of a wharenui, representing a whakaruruhau where learning and Māori research can grow and flourish.

