Our staff

Find out more about our staff by selecting a department below.

Select an area

• Council
• Executive Team
• School of Business
• School of Information and Social Sciences
• School of Workplace Learning
• The Learning Centre - Kaiārahi Akoranga Māori

School of Workplace Learning

• 

  Robbie Sutherland

  Dean

  Open Polytechnic

  Role at Open Polytechnic

  As Dean of the School of Workplace Learning, I lead a team of academics who teach courses spanning a diversity of disciplines including engineering, construction, adult education, and agriculture. 

  Read more

  Role at Open Polytechnic

  As Dean of the School of Workplace Learning, I lead a team of academics who teach courses spanning a diversity of disciplines including engineering, construction, adult education, and agriculture. 

  Relevant education/work experience

  Before being appointed as Dean, I managed the Natural Resources Centre, one of the four teaching Centres within the School of Workplace Learning.
  
  My background is in Zoology and Ecology, for which I hold a Bachelor's degree and a Master of Science. My thesis examined the causes of differential ragwort ingestion by sheep used for weed control purposes, with the key findings published in a peer-reviewed international journal. I also have a Diploma in Science in Psychology.
  
  Previously, I have held education-related roles at Te Papa, including managing Te Papa's five Discovery Centres and also as Supervisor of NatureSpace, a Discovery Centre with a natural environment education focus. My passion for tertiary education had its inception at Massey University, where I taught numerous tutorial and laboratory classes during my years as a postgraduate student.
• 

  Alan Culver

  Lecturer

  Open Polytechnic

  Read more

  Courses taught

  • Introduction to Engineering Design
  • Introduction to Engineering and Spatial Science Applications
  • Technology,Sustainability and Society
  • Engineering Materials
  • Thermodynamics
  • Introduction to Fluid Mechanics and Heat Transfer
  • Machine Dynamics
  • Stress Analysis

  Qualifications taught

  • Bachelor of Engineering Technology
  • Bachelor of Engineering Technology (Mechanical Engineering)

  Role at Open Polytechnic

  Bachelor of Engineering Technology, Major Leader for Mechanical Engineering, tutor of MEC2405 Machine Dynamics and MEC2106 Introduction to Fluid Mechanics and Heat Transfer.

  Relevant education/work experience

  I have a Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical). In addition to lecturing experience I have also held management and academic positions at Open Polytechnic.
• 

  Andrew Boyle

  Lecturer

  Open Polytechnic

  Read more

  Qualifications taught

  • National Certificate in Electrical Engineering (Level 2)

  Role at Open Polytechnic

  I am the Tutor and Programme Leader for Electrical Engineering trade courses offered to the electrical industry.  I teach the National Certificate in Engineering (Level 2-4) and I am the Programme Leader for the Advanced National Certificate in Electrical Engineering (Level 5).

  Experience

  I have trade qualifications in Electrical/Fitting and an NZCE (electrical). I am also a registered Electrical Inspector and am currently working towards National Certificate in E-Learning.

  I served an electrical apprenticeship with the New Zealand Railways, and have worked as a contractor in Liquefied Natural Gas, meat, and dairy on commercial and domestic sites in Australia, Indonesia, Cook Islands and New Zealand.
• 

  Andrew Parr

  Lecturer

  Open Polytechnic

  Read more

  Courses taught

  • Perform Calculations for the Workplace

  Role at Open Polytechnic

  I am the Programme Leader for the National Certificates in Computing Levels 2 and 3. I manage these programmes making sure they are up to date, and I act as a port of call for students if they need study or enrolment advice.

  Experience

  I hold National Certificates in Computing, and Business Administration and Computing at level 3. I also have a Degree in Psychology and Sociology, and a level 4 National Certificate in Adult Education and Training.

  Before I worked at Open Polytechnic I held a variety of roles including administration, sales, store management and including teaching overseas. I have worked for Open Polytechnic for ten years.

  I should be contacted if you need enrolment advice, or help with a unit standard in the National Certificates in Computing Levels 2 and 3.

• Angela Page

  Lecturer

  Open Polytechnic

  Read more

  Courses taught

  • Facilitating Online Learning Experiences
  • Instructional Design for E-Learning
  • Transforming Learning Experiences

  Qualifications taught

  • Certificate in Designing and Facilitating E-Learning (Level 5)
  • National Certificate in Adult Education and Training (Level 4) - New Zealand Environment
  • National Certificate in Adult Education and Training (Level 5) - New Zealand Environment

  Role at Open Polytechnic

  I am a lecturer in the Certificate in Designing and Facilitating E-learning and National Certificate in Adult Education and Training programmes.

  Experience

  I have a Master of Education (with distinction) majoring in e-learning and higher order thinking as well as a Bachelor of Education and Diploma in Teaching.

  I have a primary teaching background and have taught online since 2001. Before beginning my current teaching role, I was the staff online learning advisor at the Open Polytechnic. Prior to this, I was an online facilitator and editor at CORE Education. For many years, I have been involved in providing leadership and professional learning opportunities for early childhood, primary and secondary teachers as well as tertiary educators.
• 

  Anne Richardson

  Lecturer

  Open Polytechnic

  Read more

  Courses taught

  • Receive customer payments

  Qualifications taught

  • National Certificate in Pharmacy (Assistant) (Level 3)
  • National Certificate in Pharmacy (Technician) (Level 5) - Community and Hospital Strands

  Role at the Open Polytechnic

  I am a Lecturer in Pharmacy, teaching in the National Certificate in Pharmacy (Technician) and the National Certificate in Pharmacy (Assistant) qualifications. I am responsible for teaching and supporting students and I help with workshops, keeping study materials up to date, liaising with adjunct tutors, and am involved in revisions, moderation and marking.

  Experience

  I am a registered Pharmacist and a Member of the College of Pharmacists. I have worked in community pharmacies for 30 years both in the United Kingdom and here in New Zealand. I still work one day a week in a community pharmacy. I have a continued involvement with the Pharmacy Intern assessment programme, and I am required to have an Annual Practising Certificate to show my competency in Pharmacy.
• 

  Brian McGhie

  Centre Manager

  Open Polytechnic

  Read more

  Courses taught

  • Manufacturing Jewellery Stage 3
  • Manufacturing Jewellery Stage 1
  • Manufacturing Jewellery Stage 2

  Qualifications taught

  • Certificate in Manufacturing Jewellery (Level 3)

  Role at Open Polytechnic

  I am responsible for managing the Health & Community Centre academic team. The centre offers a wide and diverse range of learning opportunities for students in the subject areas of Adult Education, Business Administration, Foundation and Fitness Studies, Interior Design, Mental Health, Pharmacy and Sterilising Technology.  

  Experience

  I hold a Bachelor of Education, Master of Educational Administration, NZ Diploma in Business, Diploma in Management, and a Diploma in Tertiary Teaching.

  I have worked at Open Polytechnic for a number of years and have been a tutor and programme leader for various engineering trade qualifications. Before joining Open Polytechnic I was employed as a District Service Manager in the Sales Department of General Motors NZ.
• 

  Graham Paine

  Centre Manager, Applied Technology

  Open Polytechnic

  Read more

  Role at Open Polytechnic

  I manage the Applied Technology Centre and primarily work with Industry Training Organisations (ITO’s) to develop and deliver distance training options for NZ Electrical, Mechanical Engineering, Drainlaying, Plumbing and Gasfitting industry trainees. The programmes we provide are generally aligned to National Certificates, as registered on the NZ Qualifications Framework.

  Experience

  I have many years of experience within the tertiary education sector with both management and teaching roles covering the delivery of qualifications ranging from Level 2 to Level 6 on the NZ Qualifications Framework.

  I have a Certificate in Engineering (NZCE) Electrical and a Electrical Advanced Trade in Industrial Installations & Electronics. I am also a New Zealand Registered Engineering Associate and a New Zealand Registered Electrical Inspector.

  I have an electrical/telecommunications industry background with extensive experience in telecommunications power plant, standby/UPS plant, security systems, air conditioning and industrial control/ instrumentation.
• 

  Gregory De Costa

  Associate Professor and Major Leader

  Open Polytechnic

  Read more

  Courses taught

  • Geology and Geomechanics
  • Structural and Building Technology
  • Structural Design 1
  • Construction Engineering
  • Civil Materials Practice
  • Road Design and Location
  • Municipal Services
  • Construction Methods
  • Civil Systems Practice
  • Engineering Management
  • Engineering Management Science
  • Hydraulics 1
  • Hydrology
  • Environmental Technology
  • Surveying Computations A
  • Spacial Science for Engineers
  • Engineering Statics
  • Geology and Geomechanics Practice
  • Hydraulics Practice

  Qualifications taught

  • Bachelor of Engineering Technology (Civil Engineering)

  Role at Open Polytechnic

  I am the Lecturer for a range of Civil Engineering courses, and the Major Leader for the Civil Engineering programme. I also supervise research projects.

  Experience

  I have worked in distance education and research for over 15 years and have undertaken a distance education training program at the Open University. 

  I graduated with a Civil Engineering Degree, and then went on to do a Masters in Environmental Engineering a PhD and I also hold a Masters in Business Administration. I am a member of the Institute of Engineers New Zealand and am a Chartered Professional Engineer and an International Professional Engineer.  I am also a member of the executive council of the International Association for Hydraulic Research (Asia Pacific Division).
• 

  Ioan Tuleasca

  Senior Lecturer

  Open Polytechnic

  Read more

  Courses taught

  • Electrical Technology
  • Electrical Plant

  Qualifications taught

  • Bachelor of Engineering Technology (Electrical and Electronic Engineering)

  Role at Open Polytechnic

  Major Leader Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical)

  Relevant education/work experience

  I hold a Bachelor of Engineering Electrical, a PhD Electrical and a Certificate in Project Management.

  Work/ experience relevant to role at Open Polytechnic

  I am a member of the Institute of Professional Engineers and the New Zealand IPENZ. I am a Chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng No: 1003256) and registered with the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers IEEE (Member No: 41634052).
• 

  Karen Kane

  Lecturer

  Open Polytechnic

  Read more

  Courses taught

  • Facilitating Online Learning Experiences
  • Instructional Design for E-Learning
  • Transforming Learning Experiences

  Qualifications taught

  • Certificate in Designing and Facilitating E-Learning (Level 5)
  • National Certificate in Adult Education and Training (Level 4) - New Zealand Environment
  • National Certificate in Adult Education and Training (Level 5) - New Zealand Environment

  Role at Open Polytechnic

  I am the Programme Leader for the Adult Education and Training Certificates.  I am responsible for all the teaching on these courses as well as the writing and editing of course materials.  I also teach the Open Polytechnic Certificate in Designing and Facilitating E-Learning.

  Experience

  I have a Bachelors degree, a post graduate primary teaching qualification and a Masters in Education.  I also hold the Open Polytechnic Certificate in Designing and Facilitating E-Learning.

  I have previously worked in trademarks and patents and have taught communication skills, maths, basic accounting and computing.
• 

  Ken Ash

  Tutor

  Open Polytechnic

  Read more

  Qualifications taught

  • Certificate in Plumbing and Gasfitting Registration (Level 4)

  Role at Open Polytechnic

  I am a Tutor in Plumbing Gasfitting and Drainlaying and teach our Certifying  Plumbing, and Certifying Gasfitting and Drainlaying courses.

  Experience

  I am a Certified Plumber, Gasfitter and Drainlayer and have an NZCS Certificate in Science, Biochemistry/Micorobiology. I also hold Unit Standard 4098 (Use standards to assess candidate performance).
• 

  Les Morris

  Lecturer

  Open Polytechnic

  Read more

  Role at Open Polytechnic

  I am the Co-ordinator for the Maori Art & Design qualifications and lecture in the Sports Turf Management qualifications.

  Experience

  I have a Bachelor of Education (Adult Education) from Massey University, a Diploma in Tertiary teaching from the Central Institute of Technology and am a qualified work place assessor for the Open Polytechnic. I also hold a Certificate in Supervision and Basic Management from the New Zealand Institute of Management and various turf management and agriculture related qualifications.

  Research interests and publications

  Morris,L.(May, 2005) Prepare and present a budget for sports turf operations. NZ Sports Turf Journal, NZ Sports Turf Institute. Palmerston North.

  Morris,L. (May, 2004) Get That Job Covered. NZ Turf Management Journal. NZ Sports Turf Institute. Palmerston North.

  Morris,L. (Nov, 2003)Teach Yourself. NZ Turf Management Journal. NZ Sports Turf Institute. Palmerston North.

  Morris, L. (November, 2002) Seven things you can do with your Open Polytechnic study     material. NZ Turf Management Journal. NZ Sports Turf Institute. Palmerston North.

  Morris, L. (May, 2002) My boss never teaches me anything. I’m going to chuck the job in and join the Foreign Legion. NZ Turf Management Journal. NZ Sports Turf Institute. Palmerston North.

  Morris, L. (August, 2001) What you put in is what you get out. NZ Turf Management Journal. NZ Sports Turf Institute. Palmerston North.

  Morris,L. (May, 2000) Learning Support. NZ Turf Management Journal. NZ Sports Turf Institute. Palmerston North.

  Morris,L (August, 2007) The SQ3R Meth of Reading. NZ Turf management journal. NZ Sports Turf Institute. Palmerston North.

• Linda Lee

  Foundation Programme Manager

  Open Polytechnic

  Read more

  Role at Open Polytechnic

  Lecturer in:

  Get Ahead Start

  • Certificate in Foundation Communications
  • Get Ahead Skills
  • National Certificate in Employment Skills
  • Certificate in Career and Self Development

  Experience

  I am a qualified primary school teacher with experience in teaching from early childhood education to adult teaching. I specialise in initiatives for second chance learning and in foundation studies for Maori and Pasifika.

  Currently I am managing partnerships with community organisations, PTEs and education providers to deliver mixed mode programmes within local communities.
• 

  Lyn Mowles

  Principal Lecturer

  Open Polytechnic

  Read more

  Courses taught

  • Decontamination and Care of Instruments
  • Packaging, handling and storage of sterile supplies
  • Steam Sterilisation
  • Low Temperature Sterilisation, Dry Heat Sterilisation and Gamma Radiation
  • Monitoring and Testing of Sterilisers
  • Sterilising Technology Practice
  • Microbiology and Infection Control

  Qualifications taught

  • Certificate in Sterilising Technology (Level 3)
  • National Certificate in Mental Health (Mental Health Support Work) (Level 4)

  Role at Open Polytechnic

  I am the Programme Leader for the National Certificate in Mental Health and the Certificate in Sterilising Technology.  I support the learning needs of students on those programmes.

  Experience

  I started my academic career as a Clinical Tutor, teaching students on placement in psychiatric hospitals. I have taught in classrooms and at a distance and have over twenty five years experience in tertiary education. My background is in mental health and I have worked in many psychiatric and mental health settings around New Zealand. I have a Masters in Occupational Therapy.  Recently I have worked as the Academic Adviser for the School of Workplace Learning and Development.

  I have a special interest in the factors that influence people’s persistence at their studies. Many of the learners I work with have multiple demands on their time and energies and I am particularly thrilled when they achieve success.
• 

  Martin Glaeser

  Tutor

  Open Polytechnic

  Read more

  Courses taught

  • Demonstrate knowledge of workplace health and safety requirements

  Qualifications taught

  • National Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (Level 2)

  Role at Open Polytechnic

  I am the Tutor and Programme Leader for engineering trade courses offered mainly to Competenz Industry Training Organisation trade apprentices. I also teach the National Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (Level 2) and the correspondence components of the National Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (Level 4).

  Experience

  I have Advanced Trade Qualifications in Fitting Turning and in Machining, a National Diploma in Management and am currently completing my final paper for the National Certificate in Adult Education.

  I served a fitting and turning apprenticeship with the New Zealand Railways, and have worked in precision machining at mining equipment manufacturer Longyear in Australia, in tool making and plant maintenance at Tomkies Manufacturing and Interlock Group, in production management at Interlock Group, Corada and at Capital Circuits in printed circuit manufacture.
• 

  Mel Boyd

  Lecturer

  Open Polytechnic

  Read more

  Courses taught

  • Speak to a specified audience in a predictable situation
  • Write in plain English
  • Give oral instructions in the workplace
  • Introduction to Communications and Business Processing
  • Introduction to Computing
  • Entry Level Business Administration

  Role at Open Polytechnic

  I work as a Tutor and Lecturer in the School of Workplace Learning and Development. I currently teach the National Certificate in Computing Level 2. I also assist in and support the delivery of the National Certificate in Business Administration & Computing Level 2. I am responsible for Communication and General Workplace unit standards within these programmes.

  Experience

  I have worked at Open Polytechnic for just over seven years, and have been teaching for just over two years.

  I hold a Certificate in Tertiary Study Skills and the National Certificate in Business Administration & Computing Level 2.

  I am currently working towards the National Certificate in Adult Literacy and Numeracy Education (Vocational Workplace) Level 5, the National Certificate in Adult Education & Training Level 4 and the National Certificate in Business Administration & Computing Level 3.
• 

  Merilyn Merrett

  Senior Lecturer

  Open Polytechnic

  Read more

  Courses taught

  • Sustainable Development and New Zealand
  • Introduction to New Zealand Ecology
  • Coastal and Marine Management
  • Environmental Monitoring and Reporting
  • Environmental Studies Research Paper

  Role at Open Polytechnic

  I am a Senior Lecturer, teaching a range of environment courses including Introduction to New Zealand Ecology, Coastal and Marine Management, Environmental Monitoring and Reporting and the Environmental Studies Research Paper.

  Experience

  I began my university studies as a mature student at the University of Waikato in 1992, completing a Bachelor of Science majoring in biological sciences in 1995 and then a Master of Science in 1997. While doing my Masters degree (1996-7) I was employed as a tutor in the Biological Sciences Department of Waikato University which entailed helping students in labs and marking assignments.

  At the completion of my Masters degree I was employed by Landcare Research. While working there I was supported through a PhD and graduated in Ecology in 2006.

  Research interests

  I am especially interested in native plants and ecosystems and have worked in native forests, geothermal areas, sand dunes around the North Island, and tussocklands of the Central Plateau. I have had two papers published from my Masters thesis and four from my PhD thesis and hope to publish more from the latter.

  While at Landcare Research I wrote more than 50 contract reports, mostly as the lead author and made 12 presentations or posters to national conferences. I authored a chapter and was an editor/compiler of the book ‘Botany of the Waikato’.

  Publications

  Thesis: Merrett MF 2006. Breeding systems and reproduction of indigenous shrubs in fragmented ecosystems. PhD Thesis, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand.

  Merrett MF 1997. Alseuosmia quercifolia A.Cunn.: taxonomy, ecology reproductive biology and propagation. MSc Thesis, The University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand.

  Merrett MF, Robertson AW, Peterson PG 2007. Pollination performance and vulnerability to pollination breakdown of sixteen native shrub species from New Zealand. New Zealand Journal of Botany 45: 579–592. http://pdfserve.informaworld.com/245859_731229661_919370347.pdf

  Merrett MF 2007. Sex ratios, fruit set and size-class structure in the threatened, gynodioecious sand-dune species Pimelea arenaria (Thymelaeaceae) from New Zealand. Australian Journal of Botany 55: 554–560. http://www.publish.csiro.au/paper/BT06017.htm

  Merrett MF 2005. Gynodioecy in Teucridium parvifolium (Verbenaceae), a threatened, small-leaved shrub from New Zealand. New Zealand Journal of Botany 45: 613–617. http://www.royalsociety.org.nz/media/publications-journals-nzjb-2005-008.pdf

  Merrett MF 2005. The breeding system of Raukaua anomalus, a small-leaved shrub from New Zealand. New Zealand Journal of Botany 43: 205–210. http://www.royalsociety.org.nz/publications/journals/nzjb/2005/008/

  Merrett MF, Clarkson BD, Bathgate JL 2002. Ecology and conservation of Alseuosmia quercifolia (Alseuosmiaceae) from New Zealand. New Zealand Journal of Botany 40: 49–63. http://www.royalsociety.org.nz/publications/journals/nzjb/2002/004/

  Merrett MF, Clarkson BD 2000. Reinstatement of Alseuosmia quercifolia (Alseuosmiaceae) from New Zealand. New Zealand Journal of Botany 38: 153–164. http://www.royalsociety.org.nz/media/publications-journals-nzjb-2000-005.pdf
• 

  Mike Burtenshaw

  Senior Lecturer

  Open Polytechnic

  Read more

  Courses taught

  • Global Environmental Studies
  • Plants and People - An Introduction to Ethnobotany
  • New Zealand Native Plants

  Role at Open Polytechnic

  I am a Senior Lecturer and Researcher currently teaching Global Environmental Studies, Plants and People: An introduction to ethnobotany, and New Zealand Native Plants.

  Experience

  I have a Graduate Diploma in Science (ecology and biodiversity) and a Bachelor of Arts from Victoria University, a Diploma in Tertiary Teaching from the Central Institute of Technology and a Workplace Assessment Certificate from the Open Polytechnic. I have worked in several positions at Open Polytechnic including as a Research Facilitator, as the Natural Resources Deputy Centre Manager and Acting Centre Manager and as the Section Manager, Natural Resources.

  Research

  I am working on research related to the economics of pre-European kumara gardens: a study of the return for effort of an experimental garden using a traditional Maori kumara cultivar. I am also researching Te Hue Lagenaria siceraria and its contemporary cultivation in New Zealand; Bracken fern Pteridium esculentum rhizomes as a traditional food source of Maori and storage of pre-European kumara using traditional storage pits.

• Nik Tse

  Tutor

  Open Polytechnic

  Read more

  Qualifications taught

  • Certificate in Plumbing and Gasfitting Registration (Level 4)

  Role at Open Polytechnic

  I am a Tutor in Plumbing, Gasfitting and Drainlaying and teach in the Registration Plumbing and Gasfitting, Certifying Plumbing & Gasfitting qualifications and in the National Certificate in Drainlaying & Continued Professional Development in Gasfitting.

  Experience

  I hold certifying licences in Plumbing, Gasfitting and Drainlaying and I have a Bachelor of Arts in English and Geography.

• Paul Bretherton

  Tutor

  Open Polytechnic

  Read more

  Qualifications taught

  • National Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (Level 2)

  Role at Open Polytechnic

  Tutor Engineering Trades

  List of courses/programmes taught:

  • National Certificate in Engineering – Fabrication
  • National Certifiate in Mechanical Engineering

  Experience

  I have over 30 years of engineering experience and hold the following qualifications:

  Advanced Trade Toolmaking, Electrical Service Technicians Certificate (A&B), Marine Engineer Watch keepers Certificate, Solid Works (Advanced).   In addition I am currently studying for the National Diploma in Engineering.
• 

  Paul Keats

  Centre Manager

  Open Polytechnic

  Read more

  Courses taught

  • Identify and understand arms legislation and demonstrate the safe use and security of firearms
  • Demonstrate Knowledge of Plant Propagation
  • Demonstrate knowledge of nursery growing media
  • Demonstrate knowledge of soils and fertilisers
  • Demonstrate knowledge of soil properties and their effect on plant growth
  • Demonstrate knowledge of the structure and function of plants
  • Demonstrate Knowledge of plant processes and plant life cycles
  • Identify trees, shrubs, and climbers used in amenity horticulture
  • Demonstrate knowledge of plant nomenclature
  • Identify annuals, herbaceous perennials, and bulbs used in amenity horticulture

  Qualifications taught

  • Certificate in Environmental Management (Level 6)
  • Diploma in Environmental Management (Level 6)
  • Firearms Legislation and Safety
  • National Certificate in Horticulture (Introductory) (Level 2)
  • National Certificate in Urban Pest Management (Level 2)

  Role at Open Polytechnic

  I manage the Natural Resources Centre which offers a number of programmes, including agriculture, horticulture, environmental studies, and urban pest management.

  Experience

  I have a Diploma in Business, a Diploma in Horticulture, a Diploma in Management, a Diploma in Human Resources and am currently working towards a Bachelor of Business. My background is in horticulture and advisory work.

  Research interests

  I am interested in the role of distance education in sustainability and am a member of the Open Polytechnic Polygreen committee which introduces environmental sustainability to the campus.

  I am currently researching paperless assessment and feedback which looks at the best method of marking student assessments submitted electronically and giving feedback electronically as a way to save time and resources.
• 

  Richard Parkes

  Lecturer / Programme Leader

  Open Polytechnic

  Read more

  Courses taught

  • Prepare a case for obtaining finance to establish, extend, or diversify an agribusiness
  • Manage Agribusiness Capital
  • Identify, assess, and plan the management of risk for an agribusiness
  • Demonstrate knowledge of ownership, tenure, and succession planning for an agribusiness
  • Demonstrate knowledge of the effects of market forces on an agri-industry
  • Demonstrate knowledge of the physical resources in an agribusiness
  • Develop a business plan, and monitor the objectives for an agribusiness
  • Develop production management action plans for an agribusiness, and analyse results
  • Develop and monitor financial plans for an agribusiness
  • Evaluate performance and opportunities for an agribusiness, and present findings in a report
  • Analyse performance, and determine investment opportunities for an agribusiness
  • Describe employment requirements, and employment termination procedures for an agribusiness
  • Plan for the recruitment, selection, and induction of staff in an agribusiness
  • Plan work allocation and working relationships, assess performance and training in an agribusiness
  • Describe compliance requirements, and develop a health and safety plan, for a rural workplace

  Qualifications taught

  • National Certificate in Agribusiness Management (Agribusiness Resource Management)
  • National Certificate in Agribusiness Management (Business Planning and Financial Management)
  • National Diploma in Agribusiness Management (Level 5)

  Role at Open Polytechnic

  I am the programme leader lecturer of the following qualifications:

  National Diploma in Agribusiness 
  National Certificate in Agribusiness (Agribusiness Resource Management)
  National Certificate in Agribusiness (Business Planning and Financial Management)
  National Certificate in Agriculture Level 4 (Production Management)
  National Certificate in Agriculture Level 4
  National Certificate in Agriculture Level 3
  National Certificate in Agriculture Level 2

  Relevant education/work experience

  I have a Graduate Diploma in Education, a Bachelor of Applied Science (Agriculture), Certificate in Wool Classing, Certificate in Carcass and Meat Assessment and a Certificate in Artificial Insemination. 

  Research interests/publications

  I am a Member of New Zealand Institute of Primary Industry Management and the Primary Industry Polytechnic Tutors Association. I also sit on the Regional Committee for the Agriculture ITO.
• 

  Rick Fisher

  Senior Lecturer

  Open Polytechnic

  Read more

  Courses taught

  • Sustainable Development and New Zealand
  • Environmental Management Systems and Strategies
  • Environment and the Economy
  • Environmental Impact Assessment
  • Resource Management Act and Local Government Act
  • Conservation and Natural Resources Law
  • Environmental Perspectives and The Media

  Role at Open Polytechnic

  I am a Senior Lecturer in the Natural Resources Centre and teach certificate, diploma and degree courses related to the environment and sustainability. In particular I am the course leader for Resource Management Act & Local Government Act; Conservation and Natural Resources Law; Environment & the Economy; and Environmental Perspectives & the Media. My role at Open Polytechnic involves a mix of teaching, practice-based research, and committee work.

  Experience

  I have a Bachelor of Science, (Trent University, Canada), a Bachelor of Laws (Dalhousie University), and a doctorate from the University of Toronto.

  I’ve worked as a scientist at various institutions in New Zealand, Canada, and the United Kingdom, and more recently as a lawyer specialising in natural resources law.

  Research interests and publications

  My current research interests include New Zealand environmental law reform, science education, and online-supported learning.

  Links to recent publications:

  http://www.victoria.ac.nz/NZAROE/2008/index.html
  http://www.openpolytechnic.ac.nz/static/pdf/research/WorkingPaper10_1_Web%20PDF.pdf
  http://www.deanz.org.nz/home/images/stories/conference/2008/fisher-reviewedpaper.pdf
• 

  Rob Stead

  Programme and Student Adviser

  Open Polytechnic

  Read more

  Role at Open Polytechnic

  My role is to provide consistent advice and administrative support for programme, academic and study requirements and to coordinate, monitor, and report on student programme progress for employers and industry training organisations.

  I am responsible for all courses in the Natural Resources.

  Work experience

  I have been at the Open Polytechnic for many years, beginning my career as an Automotive Tutor, then moving into Workplace Assessor Training, Administration Management, Programme Leader, and now my current role as a Programme and Student Adviser.  My years of experience across several areas of the Open Polytechnic has given me the insight to provide valid and reliable information to students and outside organisations.
• 

  Susan McLennan

  Tutor

  Open Polytechnic

  Read more

  Role at the Open Polytechnic

  I am a Tutor teaching in the certificate in Interior Design and Decorating.  I am responsible for teaching and supporting students and am your first point of contact for this course. I am involved with workshops, keeping study materials up to date, liaising with adjunct tutors, and am involved in revisions, moderation and marking.  I really enjoy chatting with students and look forward to hearing about what inspires you and your creative ideas.

  Experience

  I am passionate about all aspects of design.   I studied Interior Design under Sylvia Sandford many years ago and attend design workshops and courses to keep abreast of the latest developments, products and trends in the design industry.  I have run my own interior design business in Wellington for the last ten years.  I am a member of the Designers Institute of New Zealand.
• 

  Val Elmey

  Principal Lecturer

  Open Polytechnic

  Read more

  Courses taught

  • Demonstrate knowledge of workplace health and safety requirements
  • Provide advice on the use of dispensed medicines as a pharmacy technician
  • Demonstrate knowledge of pharmaceutical dose forms and accessories
  • Demonstrate knowledge, as a pharmacy technician, of drug dosing, action, adverse effects, and misuse and dependence
  • Demonstrate knowledge of human nutrition and nutritional states as a pharmacy assistant or pharmacy technician
  • Provide written and oral advice as a pharmacy technician
  • Manage stock within a pharmacy as a pharmacy technician
  • Demonstrate knowledge of, and carry out, ward medicine management
  • Demonstrate professionalism as a pharmacy assistant or pharmacy technician
  • Make conversions and perform calculations for compounding and dispensing as a pharmacy technician
  • Apply legislation, codes, and standards to the supply of products and services as a pharmacy technician
  • Advise pharmacy clients on treatment of minor health disorders
  • Advise pharmacy clients on personal health care and products to maintain optimal health
  • Advise pharmacy clients on eye-care products
  • Compound non-aseptic pharmaceutical products under the supervision of a pharmacist
  • Dispense prescriptions and pharmaceutical orders under supervision
  • Apply procedures for handling hazardous substances as a pharmacy technician
  • Advise pharmacy clients on nutritional and dietary requirements for optimal health
  • Advise pharmacy clients on the treatment and prevention of minor injuries
  • Advise pharmacy clients on the management of minor wounds
  • Advise pharmacy clients on the management of infectious diseases and parasitic conditions
  • Respond to customers' complaints face to face in a retail or distribution environment
  • Maintain and Take Care of Stock
  • Demonstrate knowledge of procedures for handling hazardous substances in the pharmacy
  • Provide written and oral advice as a pharmacy assistant
  • Describe normal human structure and function in a health context
  • Apply legislation, codes, and standards to the supply of products and services as a pharmacy assistant
  • Apply Skills and Qualities of a Salesperson in a Retail or Distribution Environment
  • Demonstrate knowledge of, and apply procedures for, repacking as a pharmacy technician
  • Demonstrate knowledge of, and apply pharmacy procedures for, compliance packaging
  • Demonstrate Knowledge, as a Pharmacy Technician, of Pathogens, Infections, and Anti-Infective
  • Demonstrate Knowledge of, and apply Procedures for, Patient Medicine Discharge
  • Demonstrate Knowledge, as a Pharmacy Technician, of Parenteral Nutrition

  Qualifications taught

  • National Certificate in Pharmacy (Assistant) (Level 3)
  • National Certificate in Pharmacy (Technician) (Level 5) - Community and Hospital Strands

  Role at Open Polytechnic

  I am the Programme Leader for the National Certificates in Pharmacy. I am responsible for working with learners in the National Certificate in Pharmacy (Technician) and the National Certificate in Pharmacy (Assistant) and keeping materials up to date.

  Experience

  I am a registered Pharmacist with many years experience in community pharmacy, and a Member of the New Zealand College of Pharmacists. I have a Post Graduate Diploma in Clinical Pharmacy which I completed as a distance education student. This means I am very aware of the challenges of studying for a qualification while at the same time balancing work, family, and other commitments.

  I am here to provide advice on the course materials and other aspects of your study programme. Contact me if you need support or help to resolve any queries concerning your study.

• Wayne Rollings

  Tutor / Lecturer

  Open Polytechnic

  Read more

  Role at Open Polytechnic

  I teach Mechanical Engineering trades in Fabrication (Heavy). The programmes I cover are the National Certificate in Fabrication (Levels 2 to 4) and the Level 5 National Certificate in Fabrication (Light and Heavy Fabrication).

  Experience

  I have a Trade Certificate in Fitting/Turning/Machining, (equivalent to Level 4) and have spent most of my working life (over 20 years) in engineering fabrication. I also hold the Level 5 National Certificate in Fabrication and unit standard 11552 (design assessments). I am currently studying for Unit Standard 11551 (moderate assessments) and am going to enrol in the National Certificate in Adult Literacy and Numeracy Education.
• 

  Wendy Chrisstoffels

  Lecturer

  Open Polytechnic

  Read more

  Qualifications taught

  • National Certificate in Pharmacy (Assistant) (Level 3)
  • National Certificate in Pharmacy (Technician) (Level 5) - Community and Hospital Strands

  Role at Open Polytechnic

  I am a Lecturer in Pharmacy and teach in the National Certificate in Pharmacy (Technician) and the National Certificate in Pharmacy (Assistant) qualifications. My role is to help support our students with their study goals and any problems, to help maintain the current programme, to liaise and support our off campus tutors, and to facilitate workshops. I welcome contact from you, and will endeavour to answer any queries you may have about your study.

  Experience

  I am a registered Pharmacist and in addition to working at the Open Polytechnic, I work 2 days a week as a community pharmacist. I have 15 years experience in community pharmacy work and prior to that I have worked in hospital pharmacies in New Zealand, Britain and Australia. I have also worked at the School of Pharmacy at the Central Institute of Technology.