Richard Kaisia Kaimanaaki (Māori and Pasifika Student Support) and Learner Success Coordinator - Events
Come and have a chat
Talofa lava! Richard Kaisia is one of our Kaimanaaki (Māori and Pasifika Student Support), and Learner Success Coordinators - Events, who is passionate about helping learners feel welcomed, supported, and connected.
You'll usually find Richard on the ground floor of Te Puna Mātauranga | The Library Learning Centre, at the heart of our Nelson campus (M Block).
He sits in rūma M128, alongside fellow Kaimanaaki - Sue Stephens(external link) (Whaea Sue) and Kim Ireland(external link), supporting Māori and Pasifika ākonga throughout their study journey.
“My door is always open. Come and have a chat anytime - whether you need support, have a question, or simply want someone to talk to.
If I can't help, I'll connect you with the right people who can.”
Walking alongside you
Richard is of Samoan and Niuean heritage and was born and raised in Whakatū | Nelson. Living in different parts of Aotearoa and the United Kingdom has strengthened his appreciation for diverse cultures and communities.
His career has included roles in homelessness, family violence, youth development, education, community organisations, and sport, all centred around supporting people to reach their potential.
Richard believes every learner deserves to feel seen, heard, and supported.
Whether you need help navigating student life, someone to listen, or guidance to the right services, he'll walk alongside you and help you take the next step with confidence.
"We're all in the same waka, working towards the same destination, and I'm here to support you every step of the way."
Caring, approachable, and ready to help
Richard holds a Bachelor of Arts in Pacific Studies and Education and brings extensive experience supporting young people, families, community groups, and learners.
His approach is simple: build trust, listen without judgement, and connect people with the support they need to succeed.
Richard is guided by the Samoan proverb:
“O le ala i le pule o le tautua.” | “The pathway to leadership is through service.”
"Helping people fills my cup. Seeing learners grow in confidence and achieve things they once thought were out of reach is the most rewarding part of my mahi."
Richard loves being part of a community that genuinely cares about learners. He gets a lot of joy from supporting Māori and Pasifika ākonga, celebrating their achievements, and seeing them grow, in their studies and personal lives.
“NMIT is more than a place to study - it's a community where people genuinely care about your wellbeing, celebrate your successes, and want to see you thrive.”
Life outside of NMIT
Outside of work, Richard enjoys spending time with his young family, relaxing, and playing sport - activities that help him recharge and stay connected to what matters most.
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Richard's door is always open. Whether you need support, have a question, or simply want a friendly chat, you're always welcome to stop by. Standard working hours: Monday–Friday, 8.00am–4.30pm. Where to find Richard: In rūma M128, on the ground floor of Te Puna Mātauranga | The Library Learning Centre, NMIT Nelson campus (M Block). Email: learnersuccess@nmit.ac.nz |
"Always remember - you belong here, you're doing an amazing job, and you don't have to do this journey alone."
