Unitec Institute of Technology

In 1976, on the grounds of a former asylum, a new chapter began. This chapter was the story of Unitec Institute of Technology. Unitec rose from the remnants of Carrington Hospital, a place once known as the Whau Lunatic Asylum. This land holds over 55 hectares in Mt Albert, breathing new life into its history. Unitec quickly became a hub of learning. It transformed from Carrington Technical Institute to Carrington Polytechnic in 1987. Then, in 1994, it became Unitec Institute of Technology. This journey reflects the institute’s growth and ambition. Unitec even sought university status in 1999. However, the government decided it would remain an institute of technology in 2005. Despite this setback, Unitec continued to expand. It opened a Waitakere campus in Henderson in 2006, partnering with the Waitakere City Council. This new campus offered courses in computing, community development, and nursing. Unitec’s reach extended even further with programs overseas. For a time, there was also a campus in Albany on Auckland’s North Shore. Sadly, it closed in 2016. Unitec became part of Te Pūkenga, the New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology, in 2020. This marked another significant step in Unitec’s evolution. Unitec hasn’t been without its challenges. The institute faced financial difficulties, prompting government intervention. A major restructure of the polytechnic sector followed in 2019. Unitec remains the largest institute of technology in Auckland. It offers a vast array of programs. These range from certificates to postgraduate degrees, catering to thousands of students. Three libraries across its campuses provide access to knowledge and resources. Unitec also boasts an impressive list of study areas. These cover everything from animal health and architecture to trades and veterinary nursing.