POU HERENGA WAKA/AUT RESEARCH NETWORK

Who we areMō mātou

Toi o te Ora is a collaborative research network grounded in curiosity, connection, and a shared ambition to change things for the better. We bring curious minds, diverse knowledges and different skill sets into conversation, creating space to take on the big, complex challenges that matter. We know we can achieve more together than we ever could alone.

This is a space for collaboration – where ideas flow, partnerships grow, and bold solutions take shape. We are open to new ways of thinking, doing and being, and we welcome opportunities to work alongside communities, partners, and others who share a commitment to building better futures.

Our name

Our name, Toi o te Ora, reflects what we value. Toi speaks to art, creativity, and origin – or in our case, the summit. Ora speaks to life, vitality, and wellbeing. Together, the phrase reminds us that wellbeing is not a singular moment, but an ongoing practice shaped by time and experience.

What does our name mean?

Our logo

Our logo is inspired by tree rings. Trees carry their history within them, with each ring marking a season of growth, challenge, abundance and change. In the same way, our network is shaped by the people within it. Every person who joins adds a new layer, becoming part of our shared and growing story.

What does our logo look like?

Tree rings symbolise growth, connection and time. They speak to strong foundations, deep connections, and the way our network continues to grow and evolve. In this way, our logo reflects both where we have come from and what we are building together.

Our people

Our leadership group reflects the diversity of expertise, perspectives, and research strengths across the network. Together, they show the breadth of knowledge within Toi o te Ora and create opportunities for communities and partners to connect with people whose work aligns with their interests and aspirations. Beyond the leadership group, our wider membership brings together a broad range of disciplines, experiences and research interests.

Scott Duncan

Scott Duncan

Head of Department - Physical Activity and Nutrition

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Leon Iusitini

Leon Iusitini

Senior Research Fellow

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Alice Theadom

Alice Theadom

Psychology & Neuroscience

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Katey Thom

Katey Thom

AUT Law School

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Lorenzo Garcia

Lorenzo Garcia

Engineering, Computer and Mathematical Sciences

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Nicola Kayes

Nicola Kayes

Associate Dean - Research

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Patria Hume

Patria Hume

Sport & Exercise Science

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Simon Walters

Simon Walters

Sport Leadership & Management

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Stephen Reay

Stephen Reay

Associate Dean - Research

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Get involved

We welcome opportunities to connect with communities, partners, and collaborators who share our interest in reimagining what is possible together. Whether you are interested in our research, want to explore a partnership, or would like to attend an upcoming event, we invite you to get in touch and be part of the conversation.

Get in touch at wellbeing@aut.ac.nz

Julia McPhee

Julia McPhee

Toi o te Ora Network Research Manager

julia.mcphee@aut.ac.nz

Scott Crawford

Scott Crawford

Toi o te Ora - Network Business Development Manager

scott.crawford@aut.ac.nz