Massey University’s decision to cease funding Te Tira Ahu Pae, its co-governed students’ association, has sparked significant concern among students. Creative Arts student Maria says she is disappointed, stating that the university’s action “contrasts sharply with the recent large-scale hīkoi to Parliament advocating for co-governance.” Political Studies student Peter criticizes the senior leadership, accusing them of “aligning with alt-right ideologies and fostering racial division,” which he believes is disconnected from student sentiment.
The university cites governance issues within Te Tira Ahu Pae as the reason for withdrawing funding, explaining that “the current representation model no longer adequately serves the student body.” Instead, it plans to provide student support services through alternative methods in 2025.
This decision coincides with heightened national discourse on co-governance and Māori rights. On November 19, 2024, a historic hīkoi brought over 55,000 participants to Parliament, protesting the proposed Treaty Principles Bill, which many see as undermining Māori rights and co-governance structures. The timing of Massey’s funding cut, juxtaposed with the hīkoi’s widespread support for co-governance, has heightened student concerns about the university’s commitment to inclusive representation.
Students are mobilizing to oppose the funding cut, arguing that it undermines independent student representation and sets a concerning precedent for student unionism across New Zealand. The situation at Massey reflects broader national tensions over co-governance and Māori rights, highlighted by the recent hīkoi and ongoing debates surrounding the Treaty Principles Bill.