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Caroline has been serving as Acting Chief Executive since January 2026 and brings extensive leadership experience across New Zealand’s vocational education sector, including executive leadership, governance and strategic advisory roles. Caroline has previously held roles at NMIT, including as deputy CEO and Academic Manager from 2000 to 2008. She was CEO of the Open Polytechnic of New Zealand from 2009 to 2022, and recently undertook education specialist roles for UCoL and NorthTec. Caroline serves on the Commonwealth of Learning Board of Governors and Te Rautiaki Mātauranga and Te Pae Tawhiti Committees for Te Wānanga o Aotearoa.
NMIT Council Chair Tony Gray says the appointment comes at a significant time for the institute and the wider region.
“NMIT is entering an exciting new chapter as a standalone institute, following its departure from the national Te Pūkenga network. Returning to local governance enables us to respond more quickly and directly to the needs of our learners, industries and communities across Te Tauihu.”
“Caroline brings a deep understanding of vocational education, strong strategic leadership and a clear commitment to learner success and regional development. During her time as Acting Chief Executive, she has provided steady leadership and demonstrated a strong focus on building partnerships and positioning NMIT for the future.
“The NMIT Council is confident Caroline is the right person to lead NMIT into its next chapter as we continue to strengthen our connections with learners, iwi, industry and communities, while ensuring NMIT remains responsive, innovative and future focused,” says Tony.
Caroline says she is looking forward to joining NMIT and working alongside staff, learners and stakeholders.
“Over the past five months as Acting Chief Executive, I have gained an even deeper appreciation for the vital role NMIT plays within Te Tauihu and the wider vocational education sector. I’m pleased to continue that work as Chief Executive.
What has stood out most to me is the dedication and professionalism of our kaimahi, along with the important relationships we maintain with our ākonga, iwi, industry and communities across the region.
NMIT has a proud history and a significant role in supporting regional growth, workforce development and learner success. There are considerable opportunities ahead for vocational education, and I look forward to working with our people and partners to build on our strengths, deliver high-quality outcomes for learners, and ensure NMIT remains responsive, innovative and future focused.”
The institute says its future focus includes strengthening regional partnerships, supporting learner success and ensuring programmes continue to respond to evolving workforce and community needs.
