Tūmahana | UC Foundation
Tūmahana | University of Canterbury Foundation is dedicated to ensuring that Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | The University of Canterbury's tradition of excellence in higher education continues.
From its earliest beginnings in 1873, philanthropic support and the generosity of donors and supporters has played a major part in making the university the respected institution it is today. The UC Foundation is dedicated to continuing that tradition.
Tūmahana is a name that is synonymous with a gift exchange. In te ao Māori, we often celebrate kaihaukai - tribal feasts - where the reciprocal present of food is given by one kinship group to the other, a time each year when everyone gathers and brings a contribution to the table – the delicacies that reflect the places they come from and the resources from their respective iwi, hapū or whānau areas. Everyone then sits to eat and share in the hākari (feast). Tūmahana also signifies the return of a gift. It’s a physical manifestation of the value of manaakitanga
- To support Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury in its quest for excellence and international reputation in education and research by creating mutually beneficial partnerships and opportunities for giving.
- We seek donations, bequests, sponsorships and partnerships from individuals and organisations to support students, teachers, researchers and programmes at Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury.
Established in 2001, Tūmahana | the University of Canterbury Foundation is an independent charitable trust. The Foundation is registered as a charity with the Department of Internal Affairs (registration number CC27669).
Our primary goal is to provide opportunities for individuals and organisations to support the educational mission of the university through donations, bequests, sponsorships and partnerships.
The Foundation is governed by a Board of Trustees who utilise their expertise, knowledge, skills and contacts to provide oversight of the Foundation's activities, raise funds and secure the resources required.
The UC Foundation is grateful for the generosity of donors, friends, and alumni around the world who support the University's vision of teaching excellence, innovative research, and community outreach. To support tax-efficient giving the US and UK, we have established the University of Canterbury Foundation in America, Inc., and the University of Canterbury NZ Trust in the UK.