About us and contact

Whether you're looking to join a club or have questions about managing one, we’re here to help, so get in touch or stop by during our drop-in hours. If you have questions about accessing student groups or need support connecting with our campus communities, feel free to reach out. 

Contact: studentgroups@auckland.ac.nz

Ashley Flavell, Student Voice Team Leader

Kia ora! Ko Ashley tōku ingoa.

I am here to support the Student Groups team in their mahi helping clubs thrive on Campus, as well as to boost the student voice on campus! I am also a supporter of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower and a member of the Rainbow Community, so if you need help making your experience on campus more accessible, I can help!

Outside of mahi, I am originally from the beautiful Coromandel. I have a Master's of Arts degree in Ancient History, where I studied ancient art and architecture, and I am working on a Grad Dip in Applied Psychology currently. Before my studies, I was an aquatic athlete and post-studies I am a māmā to two wonderful boys.

If you want to chat clubs, campaigns, or anything else student voice related,
get in touch!

Emma Ko, Acting Student Voice Team Leader

Kia ora! Ko Emma tōku ingoa. 

I’m your Acting Student Voice Team Leader. I help support and manage the operations of all student clubs, associations, and societies on campus. 

I’m originally from the Pacific Northwest but now call Aotearoa home. I have a Bachelor of Science in Liberal Studies with a focus of Education and Behavioral Science from Oregon State University. After graduating uni I moved to Seoul, South Korea as an English Teacher, and then moved to Tāmaki Makaurau where I facilitated STEM workshops for kids, and coordinated programmes for adult contemporary learning and digital literacy. At the Waipapa Taumata Rau, I have held a few engagement and experience roles, which naturally led me here to this amazing team. 

Outside of work, you'll find me outdoors climbing, indoors doing arts and crafts, and learning the banjo in between.

If you have questions about anything from joining a club, to leadership and club management, don't hesitate to reach out, we're here to help! 

Kalani Hetti Arachchi, Student Groups Administrator

Kia ora! Ko Kalani tōku ingoa.

I was born and raised on the beautiful island of Sri Lanka, I now proudly call
Aotearoa my second home. 

With a Diploma in Primary Education and a Bachelor of Business Administration, my journey began as a primary school teacher back in Sri Lanka a role that truly nurtured my love for working with students and helping them grow. Here at Waipapa Taumata Rau, I started my journey with the Staff Service Centre team before stepping into my current role as a Student Groups Administrator, where I have the privilege of supporting a wide variety of clubs and societies across the University. I genuinely enjoy working with students, helping them bring their ideas to life, and watching their communities thrive.

Outside of work, creativity keeps me inspired. I’m passionate about dancing, canvas painting, and experimenting with textured arts a trend I’ve recently fallen in love with. I also enjoy exploring new recipes, which makes me a great cook.

If you ever have questions about club bookings, grants, registrations, or
training, please feel free to reach out. I’m always happy to help and enjoy
engaging with our vibrant student community.

Ima Mazeli, Student Groups Administrator

Kia ora! Ko Ima tōku ingoa.

I'm one of the Student Group Administrators who is here to help you with your
booking and query needs.

I'm from a big city in Malaysia, and living and working in Auckland has been a
calming experience with a slower and more balanced work-life ratio.

I have a Diploma in TESL and a Bachelor's in English Linguistics, minoring in Hospitality & Recreation from Malaysia. Then, at the University of Auckland, I did my Master's in International Business.

I decided to work in this role as I like working in a university setting and being able to help students experience more than what their academic achievements can give them.

So, do not hesitate to ask me any questions regarding extracurricular
activities, or just to say "Hi!" if you see me around.

When I have free time, I enjoy reading horror and/or mystery novels and
manga/manhwa, and dabble in a little bit of art therapy using watercolours and
markers.

Brooke Merrick, Student Groups Administrator 

Kia ora! Ko Brooke tōku ingoa.

I’m part of the Student Groups team here at Waipapa Taumata Rau, supporting clubs and associations with their bookings, events, and day-to-day queries.

I studied a conjoint Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Commerce at the University of Auckland, majoring in Economics, International Business, Politics & International Relations and German. Since then, I’ve worked across insights, research, and administration roles. I enjoy helping people make meaningful connections and build communities, and supporting students to explore and grow new hobbies and interests, which is what drew me to this role with student groups. If you have questions about club bookings or events, I’m always happy to help.

Alongside this role, I also work in innovation and insights, and outside of mahi I love being outdoors, travelling, and doing creative projects.

Grace Staite, Ngā Tauira Māori | Māori Student Association
Administrator

Kia ora! Ko Grace Staite tōku ingoa.

I am the Student Groups Administrator for Ngā Tauira Māori (NTM), the Māori Student Association at Waipapa Taumata Rau.

I whakapapa to Ngāti Whakaue, Ngāti Porou, Ngāti Tūwharetoa and Ngāti Hauā, and I recently graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Māori Studies and Sociology. In my role, I support the NTM executive with the many kaupapa and events they organise throughout the year that uplift and awhi our tauira Māori. This includes outreach, noho, pōwhiri, performances, and celebrations such as the Māori Graduation at Waipapa Marae.

My passion is ensuring our tauira Māori feel supported and encouraged to succeed during their time at the University of Auckland. If you would like to connect about NTM events, services or have any pātai, please feel free to reach out. I am always happy to help.