Ngā Hui Whakapūmau Ākonga

Graduation Ceremonies


One of the most exciting highlights of the UCOL calendar is hui whakapūmau – our graduation ceremonies. These special events are all about honouring the incredible achievements of our students. It’s a proud moment where everyone who has supported their learning journey – from dedicated lecturers to whānau and friends – comes together for a formal yet joyful celebration.


Graduation at UCOL isn’t just a ceremony; it’s a vibrant milestone that marks hard work, perseverance, and success. Join us as we applaud our graduates and look forward to the bright futures they are creating!

2026 Graduation Details


Manawatū, Palmerston North

Location: Regent on Broadway
Tuesday, 24 March at 1pm (Certificates and Diplomas)
Wednesday 25 March at 1pm (Degrees)


Wairarapa, Masterton

Location: Wairarapa College
Wednesday 1 April at 4.30pm


Whanganui

Location: War Memorial Hall
Tuesday 31 March, 1pm

Apply to Graduate


UCOL ākonga, if you are eligible to graduate, you will be emailed an invite to register via Student Web Services (SWS). Please ensure your contact details on SWS are correct, to ensure you receive the graduation pack with everything you need to know about the graduation.

Graduation Enquiry Form

Extra tickets (Manawatū)


There is a limit on the number of guests you can bring for the Palmerston North ceremonies only.

Graduands are allocated three guest tickets and will need to apply for additional seats by emailing ucolgraduation@ucol.ac.nz before 20 February 2026, or by completing the enquiries form.

Please note that you do not need a ticket for yourself if you're graduating and no further tickets will be available after 20 February 2026.

Graduation Enquiry Form

Hiring Regalia


Academic regalia is required for graduates with a diploma or degree. Academic regalia is optional for graduates with a certificate; smart casual is expected. In addition, Māori graduates may wear a korowai over their gowns. If you have any concerns about hiring regalia, please contact us.

Order Regalia

Photography

Manawatū - Binh Trinh

  • Ceremony photos of graduates receiving their qualifications will be available for download. No pre-booking or payment required.

  • Whānau and graduate portraits are available both before and after the ceremonies. Bookings are required, please email info@ppp.net.nz

Whanganui - Mark Brimblecombe

  • Casual photos are available before the graduation ceremony.

  • Ceremony photos of graduates receiving their qualifications are available.

Wairarapa - UCOL photographer

  • Ceremony photos of graduates receiving their qualifications are available.

  • Casual photos are available after the ceremony.

  • Photos will be made available for download afterwards. No pre-booking or payment is required.

UCOL Souvenirs

Award Frames

Frame your qualification in a UCOL-branded frame. We have UCOL landscape award embossed black frames, perfect to showcase your newly awarded qualification. $50 each, click the button below to email us with your order.

UCOL Apparel

Get yourself a cosy, customisable UCOL crewneck or hoodie, delivered straight to your door. From $64, click the button below to shop now.

Commemorative Glassware

Mark the occasion and purchase a premium UCOL-branded 'congratulations' 425ml short-stemmed glass in a black gift box to remember your achievement. $15 each, email us at the link below to order today.