Information for Graduands
Congratulations on your graduation!
Your graduation marks the culmination of your hard work, determination, and commitment. It is a time to celebrate your achievements alongside your whānau, friends, fellow graduates, and the wider community.
As we gather to celebrate in New Plymouth, we acknowledge Taranaki Maunga, whose enduring presence has watched over this region for generations.
We also respectfully acknowledge the mana whenua of this place, Te Ātiawa iwi, along with all iwi of Taranaki, whose history, culture, and connection to the whenua continue to enrich our community.
The whenua that WITT sits on is Parehamore Pā of Ngāti Te Whiti, a hapū of Te Ātiawa.
Graduation is more than receiving a qualification; it is the beginning of new era of opportunities. We are honoured to celebrate this important milestone with you and wish you every success as you take the next step in your journey.
On these graduation pages, you'll find everything you need to prepare for your graduation, including:
On this page you will find further details on
- Ceremony dates and times
- Street parade from Huatoki Plaza
- Venue and parking details
- Frequently Asked Questions
Ceremony dates and times
Friday 12 February 2027
Morning Ceremony - Diploma, Degree
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Afternoon Ceremony - Certificates
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Venue and Parking details
TSB showplace: 92-100 Devon Street West
WITT's Graduation ceremony on Friday 12 February 2027 will be held at TSB showplace.
We will be using the TSB Theatre for the ceremony. Theatre Royal will be used for graduate check-in upon arrival and for regalia returns.
Parking
As per TSB showplace website:
Parking can get very busy, particularly in evenings and weekends. The nearest car park is Central Car Park (between Devon Street and Powderham Street, opposite the venue). There's one mobility park in Central Car Park. There is also a drop off/collection park outside the front of the venue. More information on car parking in the local area can be found on the NPDC website.
Street Parade
Street Parade starting from Huatoki Plaza
Following the morning ceremony, all graduands are invited to gather at Huatoki Plaza, Devon Street, for our iconic street parade. The parade celebrates all of WITT’s graduands, including those receiving certificates, diplomas, graduate diplomas and degrees. Whānau and friends are invited to come along, cheer on our graduands and celebrate their achievements. The street parade starts at 12.30pm. See below for a map of the parade route.
Graduation Glossary
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I wear?
Graduation is a formal occasion, so we ask you to dress smart casual and be comfortable. Be mindful of your footwear; you will be walking up steps and across the stage. As this is held in February, the warmest month of the year, when we often experience hot conditions.
Who wears regalia?
All graduands being awarded a Bachelor's Degree, Graduate Diploma and Diploma attending the morning ceremony are required to wear academic regalia.
All graduands receiving a certificate level qualification attending the afternoon ceremony are not required to wear regalia.
How do I wear my regalia?
This is a special occasion and likely the first time in your life that you will be wearing academic regalia! WITT's Graduation team will be there to assist you on the day to make sure your outfit looks splendid.
How many guests can I bring?
We understand that you would like to celebrate this milestone with your whānau and friends. You are guaranteed 2 guest tickets to your graduation ceremony.
When you register for graduation, you’ll have the opportunity to request additional guest tickets. While we can’t guarantee that extra tickets will be available, we’ll record your request and do our best to accommodate you.
Once registrations have closed, any additional tickets available will be allocated fairly and as evenly as possible among graduands who have requested them.
Please note that additional guest tickets cannot be be confirmed until registration has closed on Saturday 16 January 2027.
In the ceremony, how do I know when I go on stage?
When you arrive, you must sign in to confirm your attendance at the ceremony. This is an important step, as your sign-in confirms that you are present and ensures you are included in the graduation ceremony.
Once you have signed in, you’ll be given a number and shown to your allocated seat. You’ll be seated with other graduands from your study programme and will cross the stage one at a time in alphabetical order.
When your name is called, it’s your moment! You’ll make your way onto the stage, shake hands with the presenter and have your photograph taken. You’ll then cross to the other side of the stage to receive your certificate before returning to your seat.
Please note that if you do not sign in, we will not have a record that you are attending, and you will not be included in the ceremony.
What if I am sick on the day?
If you are unwell and unable to attend your graduation ceremony, please do not worry. If you have registered to attend but are unable to be there on the day, you will be recorded as graduating in absentia.
There is no need to contact us on the day. However, if you would like to let us know that you are unable to attend, you can email [email protected] or contact WITT Reception on 06 757 3100 or 0800 948 869.
Your certificate will be available to collect from WITT from Monday, 22nd February.