Waikato Polytechnic must prove need for name change

By CATHY ARONSON

HAMILTON - Waikato Polytechnic may be stymied in its bid to change its name to Edmund Hillary Institute of Technology.

Last week, Tertiary Education Minister Steve Maharey rejected the change until the polytechnic could prove the name had overwhelming support.

Mr Maharey said he had received letters from staff, students and the public who wanted to retain the word Waikato.

He said the polytechnic should conduct its own survey, an independent survey of staff and students and a formal public poll.

Polytechnic council chairman Peter Vautier said the polytechnic might not be able to afford the survey, which would cost more than $50,000.

The council would decide at next month's meeting if the name change was worth the cost. The rebranding itself will cost $40,000.

The surveys meant the polytechnic could not change its name by next year, as proposed.

Students Association president Howden Clair said students and the public had pride in the name Waikato and did not want to lose their identity. If the institution was to be named after someone, that person should be from the Waikato. Sir Edmund Hillary had no connection with the area.