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Murihiku-Southland hosts global climate research

Two German LACROS mobile atmospheric measuring stations near Invercargill Airport. Photo: R. Eisert

03/09/2025

On a stunning Southland day, a small crowd gathered at the MetService Office near Invercargill Airport to celebrate the official launch of the GO SOUTH II research project. Writer Archie Bailey from Motupōhue-Bluff (Kai Tahu/Waitaha) opened the event with a beautiful karakia she composed for the occasion (see English translation below):

Te Mauri o Te TaiaoTe Mana a Kewa artwork near the study site at Invercargill Airport. Photo: R. Eisert

E tū ana mātou i raro i te korowai o te raki.

Whakaroko ki kā reo o te hau, o te ua, o te moana.

Ko kā tohu o te taiao hei kaiako mā mātou.

Nā kā atua i tuku, hei arataki i a mātou.

Hei hāpai i tēnei kaupapa.

Hei whakahonore i te whenua.

Hei hono i a mātou ki kā pūkao o te ao tūroa.

Kia tiaho mai te māramatanga ki tō mātou ara.

Kia tau te rakimārie ki tēnei mahi.

Haumi ē! Hui ē! Tāiki ē!

The instrumentation is provided by the German Leibniz Institute for Tropospheric Research (TROPOS) based in Leipzig. Photo: R. Eisert

Understanding clouds and cloud formation is critical for accurate climate and weather modelling. Clouds form when water vapour in the atmosphere condenses on small particles called aerosols from sea salt spray, volcanic dust, smoke from wildfires, human-made pollution, or other sources. Because aerosols determine when and where clouds form, tracking down sources of aerosols is a hot topic in climate science, especially in the Southern Hemisphere. The Southern Ocean is both a major driver of global climate and a part of the Earth system where aerosol and cloud formation is poorly understood. Murihiku is an ideal place to pursue these urgent scientific questions: it is easily accessible, while its atmosphere is pristine and frequently dominated by air masses from Antarctica and the Southern Ocean. GO SOUTH II is part of a large-scale German-New Zealand collaboration in atmospheric science that also includes the first deployment of the German research plane HALO in New Zealand starting this week, and measurements from the German research vessels Sonne and Polarstern in coming years.

To enable data collection in Murihiku, TROPOS shipped two containerised LACROS units all the way from Germany to Invercargill, where they will be recording high-quality scientific measurements for two years. LACROS stands for ‘Leipzig Aerosol and Cloud Remote Observations System’, a unique mobile measuring station for monitoring key atmospheric parameters, such as aerosols, clouds, and solar radiation. At the core of LACROS is the portable upward-facing multi-wavelength LiDAR developed by the German research team called ‘Polly’. Polly measures not only the density of aerosols at different heights in the atmosphere, but can also determine their type and origin (e.g., dust, ice crystals, marine aerosols). There is a global network of Polly deployments (PollyNET), with Invercargill marking the 50th successful Polly installation worldwide. Because the laser beam is so close to Invercargill Airport, the system has an automatic safety feature that scans for planes and turns off the laser whenever an aircraft is in the vicinity. During the launch event, visiting air traffic controllers from Invercargill Airport were able to witness first hand the LiDAR switching off as planes passed overhead.

The main New Zealand partners include the Air Quality Collective, MetService, and the University of Canterbury. Murihiku Regeneration was represented at the launch by Riki Nicholas.

Ashton discovers a love of hospitality through the Kia Tū programme

At just 17 years old, Ashton Blenkiron-Pye has already experienced some major life changes. However, he graduated from the Kia Tū Trades Training Pathway Programme at SIT with a clearer sense of direction — and a genuine passion for hospitality.

Originally from Auckland, Ashton made the bold decision to move to Invercargill in December to be with his girlfriend. After the move, life felt uncertain, and he admits he “wasn’t really doing much” for a while. That changed when his youth coach suggested (or, as Ashton jokes, “kinda forced”) him to try the Kia Tū trades training course.

“At first, I thought it would just be like school, and I’d probably stop going after a while,” Ashton recalls. “But it ended up being pretty good.”Ashton discovered bartending through the Kia Tū programme - and is now working at Waxy’s Irish Pub in Invercargill.

From the beginning, Ashton committed himself to the course — even if he didn’t fully realise it at the time. Supported by the Anamata Māia team (Kai, Shaun and Barry) and tutor Keri, Ashton found more than just something to fill his days. He found guidance, encouragement, and people who genuinely believed in him.

“I felt like there was always people motivating me to just come and do stuff,” he says. “Like if I didn’t turn up, they didn’t just tell me off — they’d try to motivate me to come more often.”

The course became a turning point. Ashton admits that before Kia Tū, he was “pretty hood” and didn’t really care about anything. But with the right support — and the news that his girlfriend was pregnant — things started to click.

“I’ve matured a lot more,” Ashton says. “I can hold good conversations with people now, dress more appropriately, and I actually think about my future.”

That future now has a clear goal: hospitality. Through the course, Ashton discovered a love for the industry and decided he wanted to pursue a career as a bartender. Together, we went around town handing out CVs to bars and restaurants — and it didn’t take long for one to get back to him.

Ashton completed two job interviews and nailed them both, landing a role at Waxy’s Irish Pub, where he’s been thriving ever since.

“I’ve met some great people, I’ve learned heaps about what jobs are out there, and I’m actually on track to do something with my future,” he says.

Now, with a baby on the way and a new career just beginning, Ashton is feeling a mix of excitement and nerves.

“There’s lots of cool stuff ahead, but with that comes uncertainty,” he admits. “When I started the course, I didn’t care where my future was going. Now I realise there’s so much more ahead for me — but that also means I’ve got more to lose. So I’ve just got to keep working at it.”

When asked what he’d say to anyone thinking about joining Kia Tū, Ashton doesn’t hesitate:

“Be open-minded. You might think you already know what you want to do, or you might think you just want to do nothing with your life. But if you just go in with an open mind, things have a way of working out.

“If you told me before this course that I’d be a bartender working in hospitality, I’d probably laugh. But if you put yourself out there, the opportunity will come.”

Ashton’s story is proof that sometimes all it takes is one step in a new direction to change the path entirely.

Thanks to the employers who support our Kia Tū programme

Employers provide real-world opportunities through site visits and job placements in sectors actively recruiting in Southland for our SIT based Kia Tū Trade Training Pathway Programme. We would particularly like to thank the following for their ongoing support:

Posted: 27 August 2025

Finding a new path: Kotuku’s journey through the Kia Tū Trade Training Programme

At just 22 years old, Kotuku Richardson had already faced more than his share of life’s challenges. Reflecting on the period before joining the Kia Tū Trades Training Pathway Programme at the Southern Institute of Technology (SIT), he describes it simply as “a bad path” — one that wasn’t leading anywhere positive. But with a young son depending on him and a strong desire to turn things around, Kotuku made the bold decision to step into something new.

“I joined Kia Tū so I could get my life back on track, find a job and start to build a good future for me and my son,” he says.

From day one, Kotuku showed determination and commitment. He attended regularly, engaged with the course content, and took Kotuku secured at job at Niagara Sawmill after attending the Kia Tū Trades Training Pathway Programme at SIT.full advantage of the opportunities in front of him. What he discovered along the way was his own strength.

“I’ve learned a lot about myself and how capable I am,” Kotuku shares. “The course made me want to push myself to show up every day.”

And it paid off. Throughout the programme, he achieved several major milestones — completing his Heights (Basic and Advanced) Licence, gaining his Restricted Driver’s Licence, obtaining his WorkSafe Forklift Certificate, and securing a job at the Niagara Sawmill. These achievements weren’t just boxes to tick — they marked a real turning point, giving him the confidence and momentum to keep moving forward.

Kotuku credits much of his progress to the support he received throughout the programme. “I gained a lot of support from all the staff — they were very helpful in getting my life on track,” he says. He also acknowledges the guidance from the Anamata Māia: Bold, Confident Futures Service team, who played a key role in his success. “A big thank you to all that helped me change my life around. I appreciate all of you.”

Now, Kotuku is proud of how far he’s come — and even more excited about what’s next.

Kotuku has opened the door to a brighter future for himself and his whānau.“I am very proud of the path I am walking now and all the achievements I have made. I can definitely say my future is now brighter than ever before.”

When asked what he would say to others thinking about joining the Kia Tū Programme, Kotuku’s advice is clear:
“Don’t miss out on the great opportunities this programme has to offer. If you stick to it, you’re destined to succeed.”

Kotuku’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact that the right support, environment, and mindset can have. With determination and the will to change, he has opened the door to a brighter future — for himself and his whānau.

Thanks to the employers who support our Kia Tū programme

Posted: 22 August 2025

Kia Tū Ākonga Shine! All 20 SIT students complete the course

On Friday 11 July, we celebrated the completion of the Kia Tū Trade Training Pathway Programme at the Southern Institute of Technology (SIT) by our latest class. This was the fifth group to go through the course since it began back in August 2024.

This cohort started together on Tuesday 27 May, and we’re thrilled to share that all 20 students successfully achieved their Microcredential qualification – the first time in the programme’s history that everyone in a class has completed!

Since the Kia Tū Programme began, 99 students have now taken part – each bringing their own strengths and stories, and all contributing to the programme’s growing success.

Exploring local industries

Throughout the course, students took part in a wide range of activities to explore local industries and develop their pathway plans. They visited sites such as the Tiwai Aluminium Smelter, Mercury’s Kaiwera Downs Wind Farm, Niagara Sawmill, and the Invercargill Licensing Trust, gaining valuable insights into potential career opportunities.Cohort 5 visiting Niagara Sawmill.

The class also welcomed guest speakers into the classroom, including budgeting services, cultural advisors, business representatives, and Fire and Emergency New Zealand, and benefited from workshop visits supported by the Southern Institute of Technology (SIT).

This intake saw a real lift in students’ motivation and confidence, and the positive feedback from the community has been fantastic.

A collaborate effort for success

It’s important to acknowledge the collaborative efforts that make the Kia Tū Programme possible: the support of SIT Trades, Enrolments, Student Services, and the many others across SIT who generously share their knowledge and time when a student shows interest in a particular area.

Alongside this, the programme is strengthened by the contributions of Murihiku Regeneration, Hokonui Rūnanga, Anamata Māia, and the many businesses, industry partners, and individuals who open their doors and share their expertise. Together, these efforts help create real opportunities and positive outcomes for our students.

This was our final class funded by the Ministry of Social Development – Māori Trades and Training Fund. Looking ahead, future cohorts will continue under funding from the Tertiary Education Commission, allowing the Kia Tū Programme to keep making a difference in our community.

To this incredible group of students: congratulations!

Your hard work, commitment, and the way you supported each other have truly paid off – we’re so proud of what you’ve achieved.

Posted: 15 July 2025

Pathways Leadership Breakfast - focus on AI and building young people’s capability

On Wednesday 11 June, Murihiku Regeneration hosted a Pathways Leadership Breakfast focused on AI, technology and building young people’s capability. Hosted at Transport World, Invercargill, over 100 participants took the opportunity to connect across education, industry and community.Hon Penny Simmonds opened the Pathways Breakfast with an insightful presentation.

The breakfast opened with a presentation from the Hon Penny Simmonds. Minister Simmonds, provided rich insight into the way AI has already impacted the world of work, the importance of understanding this technological shift and the benefits it will bring to the success of our region and country.

Further speakers from Niagara Sawmill (Jemma Cournane) and Halter (Travis McKenzie) respectively, provided rich context to how AI is being used to innovate across processing industry and primary production. These talks highlighted the vital importance of young people able to engage with increasingly sophisticated technologies now impacting on employment in our region. What remained constant is the importance of human skills and capabilities in thinking, relating, and working well with others.

Aurora College Principal Craig Taylor, provided an insightful speech outlining the important role concrete experiences and connections to the world of work play in developing young people’s capacity to transition into the world of work.Aurora College Principal Craig Taylor highlighted the importance of the Kia Tū pathway programme in his school.

Event organiser, Ivan Hodgetts (Programme Lead Te Ara Aukate Kore (Pathways Without Barriers) Murihiku Regeneration) has a positive outlook for the future of rangatahi in Murihiku:

There is a lot of fear about the impact AI and technology generally is having on the world of work. The speakers today highlighted how industry in our region are using innovation to enhance productivity, while also creating new, more advanced jobs - including jobs well suited to gamers! There is an a rich and rewarding world of work for our young people in Murihiku-Southland.

Kia Tū pathway planning for schools - a philosophical shift

Kia Tū is a programme of learning centred on building a shared understanding between rangatahi, whānau and school regarding how a young person intends to start adult life and the pathway they will take.

Aurora College has been an early adopter of Kia Tū. Principal Craig Taylor spoke of the importance of this programme to his school:

Our students are stepping into an ever-changing world, one that’s evolving at an exponential rate, especially with the advent and impact of artificial intelligence (AI). We’re not talking about a distant future; AI is already transforming industries across New Zealand and globally. The jobs of tomorrow may not even exist today, and the skills needed are shifting rapidly. While recent reports in New Zealand suggest that direct job displacement by AI remains relatively low, it is profoundly changing how work is done and creating a strong demand for new, AI-focused roles. AI is augmenting human productivity, automating repetitive tasks, and allowing employees to focus on higher-value work. This means that while schools can effectively teach the fundamentals – literacy, numeracy, critical thinking – and the crucial soft skills needed for this dynamic world – adaptability, problem-solving, creativity, and collaboration – direct exposure to industry is absolutely essential for our students to see the practical application of these technologies. It’s about understanding how AI is transforming design, healthcare, engineering, logistics, and countless other fields right now. It’s about being future-ready, not just academically prepared. This is precisely why we are working with Ivan to develop and implement the Kia Tū program at Aurora College.

Read Craig’s full speech here.

Find out more about Kia Tū and how your school can get involved.

Thanks to our speakers

Murihiku Regeneration would like to thank the speakers for their support of this event: Hon Penny Simmonds, Jemma Cournane (Niagara Sawmill), Travis McKenzie (Halter), and Craig Taylor (Principal, Aurora College).

Thanks to our sponsors

Posted: 12 June 2025

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Murihiku-Southland hosts global climate research

Ashton discovers a love of hospitality through the Kia Tū programme

Thanks to the employers who support our Kia Tū programme

Finding a new path: Kotuku’s journey through the Kia Tū Trade Training Programme

Thanks to the employers who support our Kia Tū programme

Kia Tū Ākonga Shine! All 20 SIT students complete the course

Exploring local industries

A collaborate effort for success

Pathways Leadership Breakfast - focus on AI and building young people’s capability

Kia Tū pathway planning for schools - a philosophical shift

Thanks to our speakers

Thanks to our sponsors

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