Graduation Ra Whakapūmau

On the day

We have a fantastic number of graduates for 2025, and this year, we are doing things a little differently.  The parade will take place before each ceremony, departing from NMIT. 

We encourage our graduating students to join us and participate in the parade. If you’re unable to attend the parade, the venue check-in time at the Trafalgar Centre still applies. 

Parking at the venue is limited, and we recommend parking either at NMIT and joining us for the parade or using one of the parking options available around Nelson City [PDF, 65 KB].

See the FAQ section for more information.

Graduating programmes

Venue: Marlborough Events Centre, 42A Alfred Street, Blenheim

Date: Tuesday 9 December 2025, 2.00 pm - 3.00 pm

On the day

What an exciting day this is for you and your supporters! Please arrive at the venue in plenty of time before the check-in time and proceed to the rear of the venue.

NMIT support staff will be on hand to guide you to your fellow graduates and tutors, where you will be organised and informed by your tutor for the next steps before you cross the stage and receive your award.

After the ceremony closes, there will be time for you to celebrate and take photos with your proud fellow graduates and support teams before heading to the street parade procession. 

Please ensure you return your regalia by 4.30 pm, after the ceremony.

See the FAQ section for more information.

Graduating programmes

Nelson Low Sensory Graduation

Venue: Trafalgar Centre, Paru Paru Road, Nelson

Date: Thursday 11 December 2025, 1.00 pm

Marlborough Low Sensory Graduation

Venue: Marlborough Events Centre, 42A Alfred Street, Blenheim

Date: Tuesday 9 December 2025, 11.00 am

Graduation is a big moment! It's your time to celebrate everything you've achieved. But we also know that loud noises, bright lights, big crowds, and busy spaces can be overwhelming.

If you experience sensory sensitivity or anxiety, you can choose to take part in our Low Sensory Graduation, designed to help you celebrate in a quieter, more relaxed environment.

What's included

• A calm, low-stimulation space at the graduation venue
• The opportunity to receive your award in a quieter, less crowded setting
• Support from one of our friendly Learner Success team members, who will help you plan a graduation experience that works for you

When you complete the 'Receiving Your Award' form, you can select the Low Sensory Graduation option. One of our team members will then contact you to chat about what would make graduation feel right for you.

You're also welcome to reach out at any time by emailing learnersuccess@nmit.ac.nz.

We're here to support you in celebrating your success, your way.

Yes.  Please complete and submit one of the ‘Receiving your award’ forms by 30 October 2025.

Yes.  We need to know how you would like to receive your award, i.e. collect it yourself or have it posted/couriered to you.  If you choose the post/courier option, we will be sending your award on Monday, 15 December 2025.  Please provide a precise address where your award can be sent.

You will be able to pick up your award from the main reception desk at:

• Marlborough Campus: 05 January-27 February 2026
• Nelson Campus: 05 January-27 February 2026

Please bring your student ID when you collect your award.

If you haven’t picked up your award by 02 March 2026, we will post it to your last known address.

Transcripts are included in the envelope you receive at graduation.  You will not need to request one if you are receiving an award this year.

Learners who are not eligible to receive an award (learners who have received a no-pass grade for one or more courses) will need to request a transcript.

Please measure head circumference all the way around your head. Position the measuring tape just above the eyebrows, or use a string or cord and then measure on a ruler.(external link)

If you are graduating with more than one qualification, you are required to complete a 'Receive your Award' form for each qualification.

Please choose the regalia that aligns with the highest qualification that you are receiving.  

We will email you an invoice once we have processed your ‘receiving your award’ form. The invoice outlines options for making payment online or in person. NMIT requires payment by 30 October 2025 to secure your graduation regalia.

If you are no longer able to attend the graduation ceremony but have already paid for your regalia, you can apply for a full refund. To receive your refund, please email enrolments@nmit.ac.nz with your bank details before the graduation ceremony.  

Please note: No refunds will be available after the graduation ceremony has taken place.

What if I or my guests have special needs?

If you or your guests have special needs that require specific access or seating arrangements, we will be happy to accommodate them to the best of our ability. There will be reserved seating, and our ushers will assist you on the day. However, if you are attending with a large group and wish to be seated together, please email events@nmit.ac.nz so we can try to accommodate your request. 

Do children or infants need tickets?

If you have a young child or infant attending, please book them a guest ticket if they will require their own seat. This will give us the best understanding of the event's numbers. 

What if I need to change my tickets?

If you need to adjust your guest count—for example, if you’ve ordered tickets but can no longer attend the ceremony—please email events@nmit.ac.nz so we can reallocate your tickets to other guests. If you need more tickets added, please create another order for the additional tickets you need. 

A professional photographer will be at the graduation ceremony to take a formal graduation photo.  You will be photographed on stage as you are being congratulated. 

You will be advised when you can view the photographs.  Photographs are free of charge and are digital.

There will also be an opportunity at the graduation reception to have another photo.