Photo caption: University of Canterbury students celebrate their graduation at Spring Graduation 2026
Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury (UC) marked the occasion with Spring Graduation, Eke Tangaroa (Māori Graduation celebration) and Pacific Graduation celebrations, recognising graduates’ academic achievements alongside whānau, aiga and friends who have supported them along the way.
Among the highlights was the awarding of an Honorary Doctorate to internationally renowned entrepreneur, philanthropist and community leader Tan Sri Datuk Oh Siew Nam, whose journey from UC Colombo Plan scholar to one of Malaysia's most respected business leaders has been defined by leadership, public service and an enduring commitment to widening access to education through his support of UC and Malaysian students.
Graduates also heard from guest speakers Dr Gareth Taylor, a Director of Collaborations, an applied science consultancy focused on practical and sustainable solutions, and Scott Haines, Principal of Burnside High School Te Kura o Waimairi-iri. Both are UC graduates who shared lessons from their own careers and encouraged graduates to take confidence from what they have achieved as they look to what comes next.
Dr Taylor reflected on how careers can be shaped by unexpected change, encouraging graduates to keep learning, adapting and embracing new opportunities as they arise.
Haines encouraged graduates to stay curious, learn from being wrong and show up for others, reminding them that service and leadership go hand in hand.
For many graduates, the celebrations will also mark the start of their working lives, and for a significant number that will be here in Canterbury. Around 60% of UC graduates who remain in New Zealand choose to stay in the region, taking the skills and experience they have gained at university into local workplaces and communities.
UC supports that transition through practical learning, industry connections and career development, helping students build confidence and experience before they graduate.
As this year’s graduates join UC’s 150,000-strong global alumni community, they take with them not only their qualifications, but the friendships, experiences and memories formed during their time at university.
UC congratulates all Spring graduates and the people who have supported them in reaching this milestone.
University of Canterbury Chancellor Cheryl de la Rey and a graduate share a moment on stage during the Pacific Graduation Celebration.
