Massey University has announced they are cutting funding for Te Tira Ahu Pae, Massey University Students' Association, in 2025. This action not only undermines the vital role that independent student unions play in representing the voices of students, but also sets a dangerous precedent for independent student unionism across Aotearoa New Zealand.

Te Tira Ahu Pae currently provides independent representation, advocacy, clubs and events to over 20,000 students. Instead of renewing the funding that allows Te Tira Ahu Pae to offer these services, Massey University has decided to internally contract these services for 2025.

We are deeply concerned by this, as the independence of the association is essential to providing students with support and representation that remains free of conflict-of-interest, and fosters a space for student voices to be freely represented.

We are calling on the Vice-Chancellor Jan Thomas and the Massey senior leadership team to reverse this decision and commit to ensuring independent student unionism by renewing the contracts through 2025 and beyond.

Check out the information below for ways that you support us and voice your opposition against the University’s decision.

STAND WITH YOUR STUDENTS’ ASSOCIATION!

HOW YOU CAN HELP

  • Email Massey University

    Write to studentvoice@massey.ac.nz and Vice-Chancellor Jan Thomas at j.b.thomas@massey.ac.nz to voice your concerns as a student and demand they reverse this decision.

    Either write your own, or use our email template (linked here) which makes it quick and easy. Just add your name at the bottom!

  • Sign our Petition

    Add you signature and comments to our petition demanding Massey University reverses this decision.

    Click here for the petition link

  • Organisations: Sign our Open Letter

    Are you from an organisation that wants to show your support? Sign our open letter calling on Massey University to reverse this decision. Click here to email us and add your organisation’s signature.

  • Read our Board's Statement

    To learn more about our position on this issue, check out this Statement from the Te Tira Ahu Pae Board.