Source: Eastern Institute of Technology
27 seconds ago
EIT has appointed Robin Fabish (Ngāti Maniapoto, Ngāti Mahanga) as its new Pouārahi Māori (Executive Director Māori), bringing extensive experience in education and a deep commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and kaupapa Māori.
Robin, who will be welcomed with pōwhiri at the Tairāwhiti Campus in Gisborne and Hawke’s Bay Campus in Taradale in December, says he is looking forward to the opportunity.
Robin Fabish (Ngāti Maniapoto, Ngāti Mahanga) has been appointed as EIT’s new Pouārahi Māori.
He joins EIT after more than 30 years in education, most recently as a Leadership Advisor for the Ministry of Education and previously as Principal of Tamatea High School from 2015 to 2024. His earlier roles include Deputy Principal at Te Aute College, Head of Māori at Napier Boys’ High School and Science Teacher at Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Te Ara Hou.
“Our schools have always had a strong connection with EIT, particularly through the Trades Academy and students moving on to study here. I’ve always admired the role EIT plays in our community, and I am keen to be a part of helping people into meaningful careers and development opportunities.”
He said his existing relationships across Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti made the role a natural next step.
“I’ve had strong connections with the marae at EIT’s Hawke’s Bay Campus through various events like the Manu Kōrero competition, and I know a lot of people who work at EIT in Hawke’s Bay as well as in Tairāwhiti.”
Robin said he is looking forward to supporting staff and learners to grow their confidence in kaupapa Māori and Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
“My role as Executive Director Māori has a strong focus on giving effect to Te Tiriti o Waitangi. There are a lot of people who understand the need for an equity focus and that giving effect to Te Tiriti and respecting mana whenua are really important things. I’m looking forward to assisting our people to build on that philosophy.”
Robin is nearing the end of his Doctor of Education, examining how english-medium principals give practical effect to Te Tiriti o Waitangi. His research highlights the growing willingness among school leaders to support Māori learners, even as many navigate the challenges of how to put that into practice.
“Supporting Māori to succeed as Māori means Te Aho a Māui working to help ākonga Māori to be strong in our language, culture and identity, while also being strong in the Western world.”
He said both his career and his doctoral research have prepared him well for the role.
“To be able to bring my experience in the education sector, practical experience, but also theoretical experience, is something that I’m really excited to do to support outcomes for ākonga Māori, but also to support staff to develop their capability.”
Robin’s personal journey reclaiming te reo Māori has shaped much of his career.
“My mother grew up in an era where learning te reo was discouraged. For me, understanding my culture and identity has been a journey since I was young. There are so many of us who are on that journey now, and being able to support others in that space is something that I find really motivating.”
Robin and his whānau moved to Hawke’s Bay in 2004 and decided to stay. He and his wife Sharron have three adult children: Te Aorewa, Tiaki and Kamoe. Outside of work, Robin enjoys music and plays guitar and drums. He also enjoys waka ama.
EIT Operations Lead, Glen Harkness, welcomed Robin, saying his experience will be a real asset to EIT.
“Robin brings a wealth of experience and deep connections across Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti. His leadership in education and commitment to supporting Māori success will be invaluable as we strengthen partnerships with iwi and Māori communities and create opportunities for ākonga to thrive. We warmly welcome Robin and his whānau to EIT.”
