New Māori student president appointed under dark cloud

Ripeka Paapu has been appointed as the new Māori president of Massey Students’ Association, after previous president Cameron Taylor resigned followed by allegations of toxic culture.  

Last Monday, Massive released news that the student association is in turmoil. Following Pasifika co-president Wesley Peters being kicked off the board after a motion by general president Hennessey Wilson, student reps made allegations of toxic behaviour.

The university has raised serious concerns about the governance of Te Tira Ahu Pae over the past few weeks. 

Paapu told Massive, “I am deeply concerned by the prolonged delays in addressing the concerns raised by both Pasifika and Māori student representatives.” 

Massive is yet to receive a statement from the association regarding the state of the association.  

“We must ensure a timely investigation of these claims and seek prompt resolutions for all issues mentioned.” 

At the end of 2022, all ten of the student associations at Massey amalgamated to make Te Tira Ahu Pae.  

Paapu, having been part of the in augural year of amalgamation, had a positive experience and felt supported.  

However, she said, “It is disheartening to learn that this year, our Māori and Pasifika cohort representatives have felt unwelcome and unsafe.” 

“It is our collective responsibility to create an environment where students and representatives feel secure and heard.

“I urge the students to always speak up and let their voices be heard. With all that has come to light, hopefully The Board will take these allegations seriously.” 

A Massey University spokesperson said the university had raised serious concerns about the governance of Te Tira Ahu Pae over the past few weeks.  

The spokesperson said it had been engaging with both student representatives and the board on ways to help address the concerns that have been raised.   

 “We remain committed to fostering and supporting independent student representation and student voice and while we acknowledge the independence of Te Tira Ahu Pae, we are also mindful of our obligation to ensure funding for student voice and that student governed student services deliver key outcomes for the wider student body.”  

“We are currently in discussion with the board and as students are the key stakeholder of the association, we will be updating them as our discussions’ progress.”  

It asked students to email it at studentvoice@massey.ac.nz with their thoughts and concerns.