Masters Degree Theses

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How do societal pressures influence the nutrition choices of adolescent boys in a New Zealand single-sex school context, and what are the implications for New Zealand educators?
(The University of Waikato, 2025) Grinter, Amy; Petrie, Kirsten
Understanding how nutrition choices of adolescent boys are influenced by social pressures in a New Zealand single-sex boys’ school is critical in informing science educators on how to design and deliver nutrition education. While there is a body of literature on social influences such as family (Berge et al., 2016), peers (Ragelienė & Grønhøj, 2020) and social media influence (Derenne & Beresin, 2006) on adolescents and children, much of the research had a focus on young females and overlooked the niche influences that shape the nutrition choices of adolescents’ at a single sex boys school. Adolescence marks a significant change period, including the shift in value of opinion from their parents to their peers (Mazzeo et al., 2024). Additionally, compulsory subjects at school are coming to an end. Therefore, there is a great responsibility on educators to highlight the importance of the nuanced factors that affect nutrition consumption throughout their lives and equip adolescents with a more realistic approach to nutrition that extends beyond calories and macronutrients. With this in mind, and to gather some initial data this study sought out to explore: How do societal pressures influence the nutrition choices of adolescent boys in a New Zealand single-sex school context, and what are the implications for New Zealand educators? Given the scope of the study, a mixed-methods survey was conducted with Year 11 students (16 years and older) combining quantitative questions with a small number of open-ended questions to capture nuanced perspectives associated with nutrition. This study not only considers the formal teaching of nutrition but also the informal culture of the school environment and how these factors play their part in influencing the choices adolescents make about their food habits. Year 11 students are at a key developmental stage of transitioning from childhood to adolescence. The findings from this study raise several implications for educators. A clear takeaway is the need to address the existing narrow scope adolescents have when it comes to nutrition. For many boys, nutrition has been reduced to a narrow mindset focusing on protein consumption, macronutrient balancing and body image. This mindset, reflected in many of the survey responses, prioritises physical measurements such as physique or athletic performance, rather than their overall health or well-being. Social media was raised as a contributor to this mindset with most participants reporting daily exposure to social media and fitness influencers who promote this hyper fixation on macronutrients. This culture of misinformation is corroborated by school sporting environments, where coachers try to deliver simplified nutrition advice, reinforcing this narrow, macronutrient tracking mindset. Compounding this issue is the segmented approach to nutrition education within the school curriculum, as well as the school culture and canteen options, which fail to cultivate healthy eating messages. These findings suggest the need for an educational reform. A more integrated approach that can suitably portray the nuanced and multifaceted factors that influence nutrition choices is required. Finally, this survey’s results indicated education is not sufficient alone to harbour healthy eating, but the school environment must also reflect and promote healthy eating. Therefore, nutrition should not be segmented to individual topics, but taught across departments in science, physical education (P.E.) and health, social studies and be displayed in everyday school practices. Additionally, providing education to sports coaches and trainers will enable them to offer more well-rounded, holistic nutrition advice to their students. Without considering an education reform, schools run the risk of continuing to instil this narrow-sighted ideology about nutrition.
Perspectives and expectations of person-centred and equitable cancer nursing care
(The University of Waikato, 2025) Leow, Clara; Wall, Lara; Parsons, Matthew
Abstract Background: The rising prevalence of cancer in New Zealand calls for a need to improve person-centred and equitable cancer nursing care, in order to enhance patient outcomes and alleviate burden on the healthcare system. However, achieving this can prove to be a challenge due to the increase in cultural diversity amongst patients and nurses. Therefore, understanding and embracing the perspectives and expectations of both patients and nurses would be beneficial and crucial to raising awareness and bridging gaps that could jeopardise person-centred and equitable cancer nursing care. With only one inpatient ward within the region, the acute Haematology and Oncology ward within Health New Zealand - Te Whatu Ora Waikato is no exception to these challenges. Objective: This research aims to explore the perspectives and expectations of patients and nurses in an acute Haematology and Oncology ward within Health New Zealand - Te Whatu Ora Waikato. Participants: Six patients from the inpatient ward were purposefully recruited in the qualitative phase according to the sampling framework, and through the application of inclusion, and exclusion criteria. All 53 registered nurses were invited to participate in an anonymous online survey during the quantitative phase. However, only 15 registered nurses responded. Methods: This exploratory sequential mixed methods research consisted of an initial qualitative phase that explored the perspectives and expectations of patients using semi-structured interviews. Braun and Clarke’s reflexive thematic analysis was utilised to identify themes from the interviews. An anonymous online Likert scale survey was then developed for registered nurses in the quantitative phase. Data from the surveys were analysed using descriptive statistics. Findings: Four main themes emerged from patient interviews as important aspects of person-centred and equitable cancer care to patients: (i) Holistic needs and care, (ii) Involving and engaging support system, (iii) Barriers and challenges, and (iv) Nursing roles and patient engagement. However, findings from staff surveys revealed that nurses had varying perspectives and were not consistently providing care that patients valued. When both data sets were compared, it was evident that there were significant misalignments in the perspectives and expectations of person-centred and equitable care between patients and nurses. Conclusion: Understanding and embracing the perspectives and expectations of patients and nurses in cancer care is a pivotal aspect to achieving person-centred and equitable care in New Zealand. However, barriers such as misaligned perspectives and expectations between patients and nurses can negatively impact the delivery of individualised care. As a result, this increases the risk for more unfavourable treatment outcomes and complications, thereby also placing more pressure on the already strained healthcare system. While this study has provided valuable insights, further research may be required to increase the generalisability and robustness of this topic. In addition, implementation of strategies, and interventions to encourage the alignment of perspectives and expectations between patients and nurses should also be explored at different levels of cancer care, including the incorporation of policy, educational and clinical support.
"Ko au te whenua, ko te whenua ko au:" A Māori housing development process
(The University of Waikato, 2025) Fletcher, Marcus Anzac Kewene; Ringham, Sandra Lee; White, Iain
Tangata whenua (People of the land/Indigenous people of Aotearoa) are being recognised as emerging property and land developers in Aotearoa New Zealand (hereafter, Aotearoa). Literature and practice demonstrates how Māori are developing housing in different ways than traditional developers, supporting the wellbeing of whānau (families), hapū (sub-tribes) and iwi (tribes), while contributing to addressing the national housing crisis. The distinctiveness of these approaches are important to understand if we want to deepen our knowledge of urban development and the modelling of housing markets in Aotearoa. This thesis aims to reveal, codify and examine Māori decision-making processes relating to how and why we develop housing in Aotearoa and the values and principles that inform these approaches. Utilising Kaupapa Māori Theory and taking an insider/whānaunga (relatives) approach to the research, four whakawhiti kōrero sessions with Waikato whānau and kaimahi (workers) were undertaken to better understand how and why Māori develop housing and the processes and rationalities at play. The thesis has three contributions for academia, environmental planning and the housing sector in Aotearoa: insights into the values and rationalities that influence Māori urban development; the introduction of a Māori housing development framework; and insights into how the framework may be utilised to contribute towards more accurate and sophisticated agent-based modelling (ABM) or urban growth modelling. The findings and discussion identified six prominent values that Māori utilise to develop housing: kaitiakitanga, manaakitanga, orangatanga, whānaungatanga, ūkaipōtanga and rangatiratanga. Being rooted in Māori knowledge and epistemology essentially demands differing rationalities for when Māori undertake housing development, which are placed within an overarching framework. The framework represents a new tool to disrupt the current understanding of ‘developers’ as a single entity with a defined pathway that influences all development behaviour. Moreover, it demonstrates how whānau, hapū and iwi draw on the established learning and guidance of our tūpuna (ancestors) and the strides taken to reclaim tino rangatiratanga (self-determination). The thesis argues that academics, environmental practitioners and the housing sector should re-examine their understanding of developers in Aotearoa to become more pluralistic, which may present new challenges and opportunities for ABM and urban growth modelling. This framework argues some aspects may have potential to be incorporated into these technical analyses, while other aspects should be considered in the context of Māori and Indigenous Data Sovereignty to protect the contributions and mana of the participants within this thesis, or resist the ability to be captured altogether.
The cultural and ecological health of the Tokaanu Stream
(The University of Waikato, 2025) Eastwood, Kevin; Burdon, Francis
Freshwater ecosystems worldwide face increasing threats from human activities like land development and altered flow regimes. These pressures, along with climate change, jeopardize water quality and quantity. Despite these challenges, effective management can improve water quality and habitat, thus sustaining biodiversity and ecosystem services. Lake Taupō, Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest freshwater lake, holds immense significance for the local iwi, Ngāti Tūwharetoa. The Tokaanu Stream is a tributary of Lake Taupō that was once considered a premier fly-fishing spot. However, the stream has been severely impacted by the Tongariro Power Scheme, which required it to be bisected and channelized to accommodate the Tokaanu tailrace. Coupled with land-use changes in the catchment, these alterations have caused the local hapū, Ngāti Kurauia, who have mana whenua over the lower stream, to raise concerns about its ecological and cultural degradation. To address this problem, I developed a cultural monitoring framework (CMF) in collaboration with Ngāti Kurauia, alongside conventional stream monitoring, at six sites in the lower Tokaanu Stream. The bespoke CMF was developed through kōrero and wānanga (discussions and workshops) with Ngāti Kurauia. This participatory approach resulted in a CMF with 16 attributes covering vegetation, birdlife, water quality, pollution, engineering, and substrate. Regular assessments revealed a longitudinal decline in stream condition from the most upstream site (Site 1) to the most downstream (Site 6). The state of Site 3 was identified as the most desirable, whilst Site 5 was the most degraded. Alongside the CMF, I assessed stream health using conventional scientific measures. This monitoring also showed a longitudinal decline in stream ecosystem health moving downstream. Water quality worsened, with indicator bacteria increasing from 45 to 190 CFU/100 ml and total ammoniacal nitrogen from 0.029 to 0.125 g/m3 over the 4 km segment. Deposited fine sediment cover was high, increasing from 69% cover at Site 1 to 83% at Site 6. Cellulose degradation rates (a functional indicator) were diminished at Sites 5 and 6 in both years, even with warming from geothermal springs. Macroinvertebrate communities, monitored in 2023 and 2024, initially showed a linear decline moving downstream in 2023. However, in-stream remediation in early 2024, undertaken by a private contractor, significantly improved macroinvertebrate indicators at impacted sites (Sites 4-6). The challenges facing the Tokaanu Stream are complex, stemming from geothermal inputs, urbanisation, upstream agriculture, and channelization. Declining water quality may be linked to faulty sewage infrastructure in Tokaanu Village. The stream's diversion includes a tailrace spillway that prevents larger downstream flows, potentially reducing scouring events crucial for natural sediment dynamics. These changes have significant ecological and cultural ramifications for Ngāti Kurauia. To better understand and address these issues, I argue for an additional downstream State of the Environment (SOE) monitoring site. The current site, near the upstream spring, fails to capture the full impact of catchment inputs, including diffuse pollution from Tokaanu Village and altered sediment dynamics from the diversion. An additional SOE site, coupled with the findings of my thesis, would provide crucial knowledge to support efforts in restoring the Tokaanu Stream's ecological health and the mana of Ngāti Kurauia.
Sallow men & shallow graves
(The University of Waikato, 2025) McPherson, Rogan; Chidgey, Catherine; Slaughter, Tracey
For almost 30 years, members of the ‘Ludditious Faith of Our Heavenly Father, and the Foretellers of the Ongoing Apocalypse’ have been living a peaceful life. Fleeing the impending Y2K disaster, these Luddites buried themselves deep in the neglected wilds of east Aotearoa, founding the settlement of New Eden. Here, they follow the strict tenets set out by their founder and prophet, Enoch, while avoiding the technological apocalypse that has plagued the outside world. From their perspective, Y2K came to pass as a gradual moral degradation brought on by the onset of rapidly evolving technologies, and the greed and vanity of the 21st century has only cemented these beliefs. However, Enoch's sacrifice protected the Valley of Eden; thus, the year 2000 (and the sin of the millennium) never reached it. But that doesn’t mean New Eden is free of sin altogether. Sallow Men & Shallow Graves follows Margaret “Peggy” Matheson, a private investigator who loathes her profession and is ready for a career change. After completing her ‘final job’, she is reigned back in when a woman from her bloody past comes calling. Peggy agrees to find the woman’s daughter, but all she gets in terms of clues are rumours of an eccentric religious group living in the hills north of Gisbourne. To Peggy, it all sounds a little far-fetched. But when she finds evidence of other disappearances in the area, she can’t help but wonder if this cult - the so-called ‘Ludditious Faith’ - is responsible. While Peggy is our central protagonist, the novel briefly dips into the lives of those around her, such as Paisley (the main target of her investigation), William (the ‘Druid’ of the Ludditious Faith), and Tama (her guilt-ridden protégé). I explore the themes of guilt and deception and how they intersect with one’s perception of reality, both in terms of personal relationships and the overarching narrative of the cult. Throughout my writing process, I have endeavoured to avoid vilifying the cult as a whole. So often are fictional cults depicted as ‘evil’, but if you examine real communities like Jonestown or Centrepoint, what you find is a collection of ordinary people who lost their way in life, and a charismatic leader who can captivate an audience, and convince that audience that they are exactly where they need to be. Evil often begins and ends with one person, and everyone else - whether Luddite or citizen - is just trying to get by. Every character in this story has secrets: lies they tell themselves and others. But one reality I have aimed to enforce is that sometimes in life, you don’t get all the answers. Some, I offer freely. Others, I leave for the reader to decipher, interpret, or neglect. This story seeks your attention in some scenes and rewards it in others. It is a slow-burning narrative with a few small embers and flares along the way, but once it truly ignites, it doesn’t stop until there is nothing left but cinders and ashes.
The role of thermal tolerance in biological invasion
(The University of Waikato, 2025) Wilde, Margot; McGaughran, Angela
Biological invasion and climate change are among the greatest threats to biodiversity currently. Several factors influence what makes a successful invasive species. Among these is the thermal tolerance of the invasive species. An organism’s thermal physiology underpins many aspects of its life, including the habitats in which it can survive, its reproduction and its development. Climate change is increasing global average temperatures at an unprecedented pace, which is increasing thermal stress on virtually all life around the world. These effects are particularly pronounced in ectotherms, which are reliant on environmental temperature to set their body temperature and drive their metabolism. Insects comprise a significant proportion of globally important invasive species. As well as being ectothermic, they have a complex life cycle with a number of developmental stages, all of which may be influenced by environmental temperatures. Invasive species can often tolerate or adapt to a broad range of environmental conditions. They may therefore be expected to have a broader thermal tolerance than their native counterparts, and than other invasives that have a narrower invaded range. This research used a blowfly model to investigate how thermal tolerance differed across temperatures, using a static temperature assay to measure thermal knockdown time. Key foci included the effects of both developmental heat acclimation and adult heat tolerance on thermal performance. In Chapter 2, variation in adult heat tolerance was assessed across three temperatures (41℃, 42℃, 43℃) in five blowfly species invasive to New Zealand. I found that the two more globally invasive species in the study exhibited higher heat tolerance than the three less invasive Calliphora species, whose native ranges are generally more temperate. In Chapter 3, the effect of developmental temperature on adult knockdown time in a single species (Calliphora stygia) was assessed. I showed that C. stygia reared at the lowest temperature (18℃) had the highest knockdown time and the smallest body size, while those reared at 26℃ 1 exhibited the shortest knockdown time and an intermediate body size, with those reared at 22℃ being the largest. Collectively, my results indicate that adult heat tolerance varies between invasive blowfly species, but that developmental acclimation temperature may not have a significant effect on adult heat tolerance. Given the increasing global temperatures seen with climate change, the effects of invasive species are likely to increase, with some species likely to do better than others in a warming world. Thermal performance will undoubtedly play a role in filtering out the ‘winners’ and ‘losers’, therefore further research into both heat and cold tolerance in both laboratory and field settings are crucial.
Personal therapy in psychology training: Perspectives from the practising field
(The University of Waikato, 2025) Mills, Briar; Mohi, Simone R.
The potential relevance of personal therapy for psychologists in training has long been discussed, yet few empirical studies have explored how it is perceived by psychologists themselves. This study investigated the views of 219 Australian psychologists who had engaged in personal therapy, drawing on their written qualitative responses to a larger online survey distributed across Australia. Thematic analysis was used to explore participants’ perspectives on personal therapy during training. Seven key themes were identified, reflecting diverse views on whether therapy should be required, the challenges and barriers that can affect access, and how stigma or normalisation influence uptake. Participants described how personal therapy during training was viewed as contributing to professional and personal development, enhancing self-awareness, emotional insight, and relational capacities, as well as offering support that extended beyond the limits of supervision. Some also highlighted the protective and sustaining role of therapy and its alignment with professional values. Views on whether therapy should be mandated varied, but many supported increased encouragement and visibility within training contexts. These findings offer timely insight into how psychologists with lived experience of personal therapy reflect on its role during training, highlighting considerations for professional development, trainee wellbeing, and the broader training environment.
Comparing the psychological well-being of working and non-working mothers
(The University of Waikato, 2025) Mir, Ayesha; Milfont, Taciano L.
The well-being of parents is essential for the health and development of both their families and themselves. Both parents contribute greatly to their children’s development and growth. In contrast to fathers, however, mothers have higher responsibilities in handling household chores and children, along with their professional obligations. Indeed, the employment status of mothers is a crucial determinant of their life satisfaction and happiness. Due to a lack of comprehensive cross-cultural studies that examine the psychological well-being among working and non-working mothers, the present pre-registered study was designed to explore the difference in psychological well-being measured as happiness and life satisfaction among working and non-working mothers in New Zealand and Pakistan. The study utilized the data from the World Value Survey Wave 7 and employed a quantitative cross-sectional research design to investigate the psychological well-being of 252 working and 206 non-working New Zealand mothers, and 78 working and 78 non-working Pakistani mothers. The findings demonstrated that non-working mothers in New Zealand experienced higher life satisfaction compared to working mothers, whereas in Pakistan, working mothers reported greater life satisfaction than non-working mothers. The result emphasizes the influence of culture, employment status, and social support systems in shaping the well-being of mothers. Recommendations are made for culturally relevant interventions that tackle the challenges faced by mothers in developing and developed countries. Future research can explore socioeconomic status, and ethnicities as additional factors that might influence the well-being of mothers.
Laying the tracks: Investigating the potential benefits for autistic children of a model railway initiative
(The University of Waikato, 2025) Gedye, Jacob; Anderson, Angelika
This study described a model railway programme in terms of its benefits for autistic children and their families/communities. A non-experimental mixed-method design was conducted, in which an observation schedule was designed to determine whether behaviours which are associated with language development were facilitated by the programme. Interviews with parents/caregivers were conducted to collect qualitative data about the programme, to better understand how it is perceived by visitors and what draws them to attend. Individual case studies with children and their parents/caregivers were done to build a clearer picture of what can be seen at an individual level. Finally, a focus group was arranged with members of the railway modeller’s club to find out their point of view and broaden the qualitative scope of the data. Findings suggest potential utility in this programme for autistic children and future research implications are discussed.
Studies toward an optimized synthesis of a Novel Imidazopyridinone DNA-PK Inhibitor
(The University of Waikato, 2025) Mora, Daniel A.; Dickson, Benjamin
Cancer is a disease of global significance, with cancer rates increasing year on year globally. A key challenge within the treatment of cancer is the cellular response to radiotherapy. When fractionated radiotherapy is targeted at cancerous cells DNA double strand breaks are promoted via free radical formation to induce cellular death. However, cellular responses activate the DNA double strand break repair mechanism to oppose these outcomes. Involved in this mechanism is the DNA-PK enzyme and the Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre (ACSRC) has developed an enzyme inhibitor SN39536 to inhibit the repair mechanism. Core aspects of the project surround the use and optimization of an alternative novel synthetic route to the drug as the original published route was developed allowing for structural diversity as opposed to efficiency. There are three novel reactions at the beginning of the alternative route leading to a point of convergence with the ACSRC route at an imidazopyridinone intermediate; a nucleophilic aromatic substitution, a base-catalyzed hydrolysis and a Curtius rearrangement. Analogous reactions were originally reported by Astra Zeneca (AZ) with pyrimidine analogues however in this work they have been adapted and optimized for pyridine variants. Post optimization the highest yield achieved for the pyridine substrates were; 85.3% for the nucleophilic aromatic substitution, 89.9% for the base-catalyzed hydrolysis and 69.5% for the Curtius rearrangement. These are comparable to the AZ yields with their pyrimidine analogues however in each case the addition of heat and/or increased reaction times were consistently required to match the AZ yields – highlighting that the novel pyridine substrates are not as activated for these reactions. The novel route generates the same imidazopyridinone intermediate as the ACSRC route in an overall yield of 53.3%. This is significantly lower than the 70.6% overall yield from the ACSRC route. Despite the novel route being viable for the synthesis of imidazopyridinones we propose it is currently an inferior alternative for the synthesis of SN39536. A rearrangement of the novel route steps was then attempted to explore if the altered electronics of the substrates aid or diminish the synthetic yield of the novel reactions. We placed the final Buchwald-Hartwig amination of the original syntheses after the initial novel nucleophilic aromatic substitution however, we were unable to optimize this novel cross-coupling beyond a yield of 19.0%. Investigation into the reaction conditions were unable to discern why the cross-coupling was consistently unsuccessful. The limited information from our substrate studies suggests that the substrate for this reaction does not have the correct electronics to undergo the proposed cross-coupling. The 19.0% yield of this reaction currently renders the rearranged novel route an unviable alternative to both previous syntheses.
The use of microscopic traffic simulation model for the analysis of vehicle emission
(The University of Waikato, 2025) Kaushalya, Jani; Turner, Jessica Dawn
Road transport is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and urban air pollution in New Zealand, particularly in the rapidly growing Bay of Plenty region. The high vehicle density during peak hours and the reliance on petrol and diesel fuels in most fleets contribute significantly to vehicle emissions, which contribute to climate change and air quality degradation. This research investigates the use of a microscopic traffic simulation model to analyse vehicle emissions in order to identify practical measures to reduce transport-related emissions. SUMO (Simulation of Urban Mobility), an open-source software was used to construct the road network, generate realistic vehicle demand, and execute the simulation, while the HBEFA (Handbook Emission Factors for Road Transport) emission model was used to estimate vehicle emissions. This simulation utilised vehicle count data provided by the Tauranga City Council, and MongoDB was employed as the main database to facilitate effective storage, retrieval, and real-time querying of the simulation output. Three targeted emission reduction scenarios were developed and tested based on the simulation results: increasing electric vehicle ownership by 20%, introducing trackless trams on high-demand routes, and encouraging carpooling to reduce single-occupancy vehicle usage. As a result of the simulation, each measure resulted in significant reductions in vehicle emissions, and the effectiveness of each scenario was examined and compared. The findings of this study provide practical, data-driven insights for local councils, transport planners, and policymakers in implementing effective strategies to reduce vehicle emissions and contribute to New Zealand’s emission reduction targets.
The effectiveness of singing bowls music and progressive muscle relaxation on mood, sleep, and stress
(The University of Waikato, 2025) Hamilton, Kellianne; Starkey, Nicola J.
Mental health trends show increased symptoms of mental illness across the globe. To combat these increases, more low-cost and easily accessible interventions should be identified. The current study is a parallel cohort non-comparative study investigating the effectiveness of quartz crystal singing bowls (SB) music and progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) on mood, sleep, and stress in young adults. Over eight weeks participants received reminders to complete online sessions of either SB music or PMR. For the first four weeks participants received reminders to complete sessions three times a week. From weeks five – eight participants received a weekly reminder but could complete as many sessions as they wanted. Participants completed questionnaires assessing Mood and Sleep Quality at three timepoints (baseline, week four, and week eight). Participants completed pre and post intervention measures for Overall Feeling, Relaxation, and Stress once a week for the first four weeks. Of the 108 recruited participants, 62 (mean age SB = 20.11 years, PMR = 20.53 years) completed the interventions, questionnaires, and measures (32 in SB group, 30 in PMR group). Both the SB group and the PMR group showed improvement in Mood and Sleep Quality throughout the study. The SB group showed decreases in Total Mood Disturbance (TMD), Tension, Fatigue, and Depression, an increase in Vigour and improvement in Sleep Quality. The effects were greatest in the first four weeks for the SB group. The PMR group showed decreases in TMD, Tension, Anger, Fatigue, and Confusion, and improvement in Sleep Quality. Both the SB group and the PMR group showed acute increases in Overall Feeling and Relaxation and decreases in Stress after the interventions when compared to before the interventions. Overall, the current findings support the hypothesis that SB music and PMR have positive effects on mood, sleep, and stress in young adults.
An appreciative inquiry into the promoting and capitalising Chinese executive leadership within Aotearoa New Zealand
(The University of Waikato, 2025) Liu, Yiling; Jackson, Brad
While a number of New Zealand organisations have demonstrated genuine commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion, particularly for Māori and Pasifika peoples, individuals of Chinese ethnicity remain significantly under-represented in senior executive teams and on boards of directors. In light of New Zealand’s ongoing inability to harness the potential contributions of this community, the country has not been fully able to benefit from its truly diverse and globally connected workforce. The literature reviewed the history of the Chinese diaspora, with a particular focus on migration patterns in Aotearoa New Zealand. It also examined the contemporary Chinese community’s demographics, educational backgrounds, and workplace experiences. Existing research has shown that, despite the significant contributions Chinese communities have made to New Zealand society, they continue to face barriers, particularly in advancing to senior leadership positions. This thesis aimed to explore the distinctive qualities of leaders with Chinese heritage and to recognise the contributions they have made to New Zealand society. It sought to promote the visibility of Chinese leaders in the corporate environment and to understand both the barriers they may have faced and the key enablers in advancing to executive roles. This qualitative research study utilised semi-structured interviews conducted with current or former senior leaders with Chinese heritage, enabled participants to reflect on their leadership experiences. The findings revealed how cultural background, upbringing, and lived experiences shaped their perspectives and leadership styles. Although these Chinese leaders had attained senior leadership positions, many described encountering systemic barriers that limited their recognition and progression within the predominantly Anglo-Saxon leadership frameworks in New Zealand. Nevertheless, the findings also revealed that leaders with Chinese heritage have been able to bring meaningful value to New Zealand through inclusive leadership practices, international business connections, and cross-cultural insight. By focusing on leaders of Chinese heritage, this study addressed a critical gap in the existing literature on ethnic diversity in leadership, particularly within the New Zealand context. It emphasised the need for more inclusive leadership models and coordinated efforts from government, organisations, educational institutions, and individuals to create a more equitable and representative society that promotes greater leadership opportunities for people of all ethnic backgrounds.
To explore the creation of a multi-skilled adoptable / agile perioperative Registered Nurse: A mixed methods study exploring the creation of a multi-skilled perioperative registered nurse at Waikato Hospital
(The University of Waikato, 2025) Ngatia, Judy Diane; Parsons, Matthew
Background: The global nursing shortage has highlighted vulnerabilities within the Aotearoa-NZ health system. Within large acute hospitals, the level of nursing specialisation within perioperative care (preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative) often means that nurses do not have the skillsets to operate across multiple areas and instead focus solely in one area of practice. Issues arise when departments within perioperative services become challenged, either through increased demand or staff shortages. Being able to relocate nurses across the service according to highest demand is important, but often not possible if specialised nurses lack the skills required of working within other areas. Objective: This study aims to explore the creation of a multi-skilled, agile perioperative Registered nurse equipped with skills to work across the perioperative department in Waikato Hospital. Participants: The study included two groups of participants. The first consisted of 14 health professionals (Nurse executives, n=4; Nurse operation managers, n=1; Senior registered nurses, n=2; Intermediate registered nurses, n=2; Junior registered nurses, n=2; and Senior specialist nurses, n=3). The second group (survey) consisted of registered nurses at differing levels within the perioperative department (n=88). Methods: A mixed-methods approach was employed in this study. Qualitative data collected through semi-structured interviews with health professionals working in the perioperative department was analysed using a general inductive method of enquiry. Online surveys were analysed statistically using qui squared and ANOVA to explore the relationship between satisfaction and ability to work across different areas in the perioperative service. Results: Five key themes emerged from the interviews: (i) Teamwork and role understanding; (ii) The current nursing configuration versus the desirable configuration; nursing skills; (iii) Knowledge and holistic care; and (iv) Leadership; and barriers to change. No statistically significant differences were identified between any of the variables. Conclusion: The absence of well-organised training for nurses, especially those in specialised areas, poses a significant challenge to develop a flexible workforce. To proceed further, the service should consider developing a training programme, accept cross-training as a method of career development and consider multi-skilling as an essential core part of the of the perioperative workforce.
A journey of leadership
(The University of Waikato, 2025) Wilson, Melanie; Parsons, Matthew; McKelvie, Rhonda
Background: Contemporary nursing leadership extends beyond traditional hierarchical structures and focusses more on leadership enacted at the point of care. This reconceptualisation recognises clinical nurse leaders as essential change agents who bridge frontline care and organisational priorities, advocate for equitable health services and foster team cohesion in increasingly complex environments, all without holding formal authority. To grow and sustain such leadership requires education and development programmes that are designed to be contextually relevant and responsive to the realities of point of care nurses. Objective: The aim of this research was to explore the design and evaluation of a health leadership development programme for registered nurses delivered at a tertiary hospital. Participants: There were two key population groups: Purposive sampling was employed to recruit an executive nurse leader (n=1) for the initial interview, followed by three focus groups with representatives from executive, operational and designated senior nurse leadership roles (n=13); and the second, pre- and post- intervention surveys with the participants of the education programme (n=12). All intervention participants responded to the survey (response rate = 100%). Methods: This mixed methods study involved an interview and three focus groups, which informed the development of the programme as well as pre-test / post-test online surveys of leadership programme participants. Both the interview and focus groups were thematically analysed using a general inductive method to develop key themes. The initial interview and focus groups were used to design the education intervention, which was evaluated using pre- and post- surveys, which included Likert scale type questions, which were analysed using a Paired Sample T Test. Findings: Thematic analysis of the interview and focus group transcripts revealed five key themes: (i) Leading in real life; (ii) Becoming future ready; (iii) Power, people and perspective; (iv) Owning the journey; and (v) Connection culture. Analysis of the survey data showed statistically significant results in: (i) Current leadership ability - leadership knowledge; (ii) understanding different leadership styles; (iii) Knowledge of leadership skills & attributes for effective health leadership; (iv) Understanding of health leadership in equitable healthcare delivery; (v) Understanding of relationship knowing self, cultural identity and leadership; and (vi) Development of skills for challenging conversations. Conclusion: This study provides evidence that leadership development initiatives for clinical nurse leaders are most effective when built on the acknowledgement of cultural, relational and emotional knowing and intelligence. Programme participants responded positively to this approach showing marked improvements in self-assessed leadership confidence.
Pituitary mRNA expression of FSH and LH in yellowbelly flounder (Rhombosolea leporina)
(The University of Waikato, 2025) Curtis, Robert; Muncaster, Simon
Recent interest has been expressed in cultivating the native, yellowbelly flounder (Rhombosolea leporina). This is largely due to its high market and cultural value. Currently, there is little research on this species, both in an aquaculture setting and from an ecological perspective. This study focused on assessing pituitary mRNA expression of two gonadotropin-beta subunit genes, follicle-stimulating hormone (fshβ) and luteinising hormone (lhβ), in wild-caught yellowbelly flounder, to better understand captive reproduction for aquaculture. The first study characterised the expression of both pituitary fshβ and lhβ in wild-caught yellowbelly flounder in different stages of ovarian development: 1) previtellogenic (PVO), 2) early vitellogenic (EVit), 3) vitellogenic (VIT), and 4) final oocyte maturation (FOM). Both genes showed significant increases in expression between stages 1 and 4. The expression patterns of both pituitary fshβ and lhβ were similar, with a trend of increasing levels across all ovarian stages to peak at stage 4. However, peak expression levels were much greater in fshβ. This is unexpected compared to typical fish models, where pituitary lhβ expression is often many-fold greater than fshβ during oocyte maturation. The reason for this apparent anomaly in peak expression levels is unknown. However, the general profile of increasing levels of co-expressed pituitary fshβ and lhβ throughout oogenesis likely reflects the multiple-batch group synchronous ovarian development found in yellowbelly flounder. The second study focused on quantifying fshβ and lhβ expression over a five-day period following the injection of gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogue (GnRHa). Each female yellowbelly flounder was assigned to one of four treatment groups: 25 μg/kg, 50 μg/kg, 100 μg/kg, or a control group (0 μg/kg). Although there were no statistically significant increases in fshβ or lhβ expression from day 1 to day 5, an upward trend in both lhβ and fshβ expression was observed in fish treated with 25 μg/kg of GnRHa. Similarly, an increasing trend in lhβ expression was observed in fish treated with 50 μg/kg of GnRHa. GnRHa-treated fish accounted for the highest number of individuals entering FOM, comprising 87% of all fish that reached this stage. Additionally, 85% of all fish treated with GnRHa progressed to early maturation (EM) or further. Interestingly, the 100 μg/kg GnRHa treatment resulted in a downward trend of both fshβ and lhβ expression on both days 1 and 5 post-treatment. Despite this, the 100 μg/kg GnRHa treatment exhibited the joint-highest proportion of oocytes reaching maturity (33.3%) and had 90% of individuals reaching the early migratory (EM) stage or beyond. However, none of the fish were observed to ovulate over the 5-day experimental period.
Beneath the green bucket
(The University of Waikato, 2025) Selby, Michaela; Slaughter, Tracey
Beneath the Green Bucket is a personal collage, revealing an autobiographical tale — of many faces. Since the age of seven and living with a learning disability, I became at home on the white space, stirring a sense of comfort, familiarity and newfound confidence as I graced the pages. In areas where I struggle to adequately articulate the spoken word and thought patterns, I have discovered that writing has not only provided a sense of security but has become an effective way to express myself and channel my hidden creative ambitions through the power of verse. At present, I find myself in the position to at last forge my poetic ability, conveying my memoir of emotions, memories and the diversity that is — me. Throughout this manuscript, my poetry will turn a lyric lens upon sensitive matters and other complex shades, that are usually sidestepped or scribbled with trembling hands. Amongst the musings of my younger innocence and familial reflection, I impart themes that bare the unsettling reality. That is, the woman I once was, flinching in a corner wearing a purple stain of domestic violence. My little self, huddled inside a magnetic chamber, as the clanging proclaims an Epileptic diagnosis. A bullied victim of a pubescent tribe, the wringing hands of mirrored dysmorphia, as I shake the black paw of depression, pondering the void of motherhood and navigate the chapters of my grief. These pieces portray an intermittent journey through the joys and intricacies of my lived experience, using the energy of words and deep-seated recall, to ignite a creative understanding, of the otherwise cruel and mundane. Attuned to the sensory, symbolism and ambience of time and place, my poems centre impassioned voice, and seek to dip dye the reader into my peculiar existence. An existence returning to the remembered shelter of a plastic, olive brim, the green bucket of my earliest memory, a real place of imaginative infant retreat. My hard hat of mock pearls, toasted petals — and faded visions. Beneath the Green Bucket presents a contemporary collection of poems, that merge sprinklings from childlike incantation with evocations of adult trauma, acting as a palatable armour for those who view my words. I believe that in life; there is always room — for a fairytale.
Redefining taonga: The Treaty Principles Bill and its potential impact on the status of te reo Māori
(The University of Waikato, 2025) Carter, Wayne Ngahuka; Nock, Sophie; Campbell, Donna
This thesis explores the potential impact of Aotearoa New Zealand’s proposed Treaty Principles Bill on the recognition and protection of te reo Māori (Māori language) as a taonga under the Treaty of Waitangi. This research examines the redefinition of fundamental Treaty principles as outlined in the bill, specifically addressing important questions concerning how the transition from partnership, protection and participation towards a focus in equal rights might influence both the legal standing and the cultural status of te reo Māori. With a quantitative methodology approach, this study draws from a range of sources, including legislative policies, political documents, historical records, and academic analysis, to evaluate the impacts and risks this bill could impose. A comparative analysis study with international examples of indigenous language protection provides broader insights into the potential effects on Māori language revitalisation efforts and te reo Māori and its status under the 2016 Māori Language Act. Early findings indicate that the Treaty Principles Bill has ignited considerable debate throughout Aotearoa New Zealand, emphasising tensions between traditional interpretations of the Treaty of Waitangi and framework proposed by the Act Party. Māori rights advocates and public debates express worries that the bill could diminish current protection and reduce advancements achieved for te reo Māori as a taonga. Critics argue that redefining these principles might fracture Māori-Crown relationships, possibly weakening differences and impacting New Zealand’s governance and national identity. This debate emphasises the challenging task of restoring New Zealand’s colonial past with its modern goals for fairness and equality. As Parliament reviews this legislation, it is confronted with a crucial decision that will influence the future direction of Aotearoa New Zealand.
Mixed mutually orthogonal frequency squares
(The University of Waikato, 2025) Poulose, Jilmy; Cavenagh, Nicholas
A frequency square of type F(n; λ1, λ2, λ3, . . . , λt) is an array n × n filled with symbols ai, where each ai occurs λi times in every row and column, and n = Pt i=1 λi. Two such frequency squares F1(n; λ1, λ2, λ3, . . . , λt) and F2(n; µ1, µ2, µ3, . . . , µs) are mutually orthogonal, when superimposed, each of the ts possible ordered pairs (i, j), where 1 ≤ i ≤ t and 1 ≤ j ≤ s, occurs exactly λiµj times. This thesis generalizes the classical theory of mutually orthogonal Latin squares to mixed frequency settings, where symbols may appear with different frequencies. The non-uniform frequencies lead to a wider range of combinatorial structures with new methods of construction. Then, the thesis investigates maximizing the set of mixed mutually orthogonal frequency squares (MMOFS), focusing on theoretical methods rather than computational tools. The following lemmas and theorems are new results presented in Chapter 3. In Lemma 4.1, we define mappings from two Latin squares to form two MOFS. Then in Theorem 4.7, we apply this to explore the maximum size of the sets of higher-order MMOFS by using mixed orthogonal arrays. Moreover, Section 2.2 gives an original alternative proof of an existing upper bound for sets of MOFS. Furthermore, we identify sets of MMOFS for small orders in the final chapter by using the new results and the previous theories. These new results include Corollary 4.5, Lemma 5.1, Example 22, Corollary 5.6 and Example 24.
My private wolf and other stories
(The University of Waikato, 2024) Buchanan, Connie; Chidgey, Catherine
My Private Wolf and other stories is a collection of 18 short stories, each touching on unexpected moments of kindness or compassion. Beginning with two young girls as they imagine the likely crimes of prisoners passing by their trampoline, the collection moves in unsentimental prose through towns and cities in Aotearoa, observing people as they step outside their own concerns and pay attention to one another. A small-minded tradesman accommodates a neighbour’s request. A school boy apologises for causing accidental humiliation. An artist protects his family history from becoming easy anecdote. What prompts these considered responses? A cat manslaughter, a misheard song lyric, a painting that starts off as Jesus but turns into a hamburger. In lives marked by striving, difficulty and failure, we see parents doing their best, strangers trying to help, children recognising vulnerability in others, spouses capable of forgiveness, and colleagues willing to intervene. The stories are not morality tales; an act of compassion doesn’t necessarily transform, a moment of assistance doesn’t ward off disaster. In Horses, one child’s care for another creates a resting place as larger events unfold. In Traffic, a housecleaner’s actions provide a brief breather within a spiral of despair. In other stories, it is an act of cruelty or the desire for revenge which precipitates connection and understanding. Along the way, questions arise. What happens when an attempt to be nice is rejected? When does kindness mask interference? To what extent do we deceive ourselves about our motivations? Is it only human beings who can give and receive empathy? Through the lives of a range of men, women and children, I hope to create a subtle exploration of our efforts to look out for one another.

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