The Eastern Institute of Technology (EIT) has confirmed the outcome of its change process, with restructure decisions now finalised following consultation with staff.
The changes will result in a net reduction of 40 full-time equivalent (FTE) roles across both academic and non-academic areas.
EIT Operations Lead Glen Harkness says the decisions were not taken lightly.
“This change process was necessary to ensure EIT can stand tall once again as a fully independent institution from 1 January next year. The new structure and ways of working position us well to meet the evolving needs of our learners and the communities we serve.”
The consultation process drew more than 350 submissions from staff, which Glen described as constructive and insightful.
“The level of engagement from our kaimahi reflects their deep commitment to EIT and our students. Their feedback helped shape the final decisions and demonstrated the passion and dedication that define our institution.”
The restructure follows an internal review earlier this year, which assessed opportunities for change across programmes, property, and people. The review was informed by a report commissioned from PwC in late 2024, as part of a nationwide directive from the Tertiary Education Commission for each polytechnic to identify pathways to financial sustainability. These reports are being released by Te Pūkenga this month.
Glen said financial modelling in 2024 had been particularly challenging due to the impact of Cyclone Gabrielle. However, EIT’s quicker-than-expected return to near-normal operations by the end of last year helped inform the scale of savings required.
“Some recommendations from the PwC report were adopted, others revised, and in some cases, alternative solutions were identified to achieve the necessary savings. Our response considered regional and community needs, as well as the structures required to re-establish EIT as an independent institution.”
EIT has worked to minimise the impact on programmes, with all affected ākonga able to complete their qualifications.
In July, Minister for Vocational Education Penny Simmonds announced EIT was one of ten Te Pūkenga business divisions approved to stand independently from January 2026. This decision was based on EIT’s progress toward its savings targets.
“While change is ahead, our goal is to honour the legacy built over the past 50 years and ensure EIT remains financially viable, academically rigorous, and deeply connected to industry and community,” Glen said.
The coming months will focus on transitioning to independence and implementing the new structure and ways of working.