Latest news with #TeKunengakiPūrehuroaMasseyUniversity
Scoop
5 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Scoop
Photography As Relevant And Popular As It Was 50 Years Ago
The art of analogue photography, darkroom processing and developing prints is in high demand 50 years after the tertiary photography course was first offered to Wellington students in 1975. Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University opened its new state of the art 18 booth darkroom in the former Dominion Museum building last week, alongside a suite of other photographic resources including lighting studios, film scanners, digital print and alternative process facilities. This semester, more than 70 students are enrolled in the first year Introduction to Darkroom course at Massey's Toi Rauwhārangi College of Creative Arts. Photography Major Coordinator Shaun Waugh says as the country's longest-running photography programme, the course is as relevant as it was at its outset. 'Our programme continues to shape generations of image-makers, researchers and cultural commentators who explore how we see and interpret the world around us.' Analogue(n.) exhibition opens today Massey University is celebrating the 50-year anniversary with an exhibition of images provided by over 100 alumni, former and current photography teaching staff. The exhibition is being held in the Engine Room at Massey's Wellington campus from Tuesday 22 July to Saturday August 9. The exhibition features images from photographers who are spread all over Aotearoa New Zealand and the world including Professor Emerita (fine arts) Anne Noble, David Cook, Wayne Barrar, Ann Shelton, Gavin Hipkins, and the founder of the original photography course, William Main. Renowned photographer Peter Black was one of the students in the very first photography course offered by the then Wellington Polytechnic in 1975. He remembers using photographs from a roll of black and white film developed from his first camera (a Pentax spotmatic) to support his application. Just seven years later his Fifty Photographsshow (1982) was the first one-person show of photography at the National Art Gallery. Mr Black chose a colour image he took in 1984, Woman with Lizard for the exhibition. Senior lecturer Shaun Waugh says it's ironic that in the same year that Massey's photography course began, Kodak built the first CCD-based digital still camera—a toaster-sized device capturing just 0.01 megapixels. 'This technological coincidence underscores a key tension explored in the exhibition: between the mechanical past and the computational future of photography, and the enduring value of analogue ways of seeing and making,' he adds. Photography is available as a major within the Bachelor of Design (BDes) at Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University. Students can complete a three-year BDes, four-year BDes (Hons) degree, a Masters in Fine Arts, Masters in Design or PhD with a focus in Photography.
Otago Daily Times
01-07-2025
- Health
- Otago Daily Times
'Potentially sinister' spider spreads into South Island
The noble false widow spider has officially established itself in New Zealand. Photo: Massey University Researchers are warning about the spread of a venomous spider with a "potentially sinister bite" which has officially established itself in New Zealand. The noble false widow spider has been sighted in Christchurch and Nelson after first being seen in Wellington last December. Professor Steven Trewick, an evolutionary ecologist at Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University, said the spider was not aggressive but may bite in self-defence. "Most bites result in mild symptoms such as swelling, redness and pain. "However, some have been linked to more serious effects including tissue necrosis, nausea, hypotension, impaired mobility and secondary bacterial infections that may be resistant to standard antibiotics." The invasive arachnid has been dubbed 'Britain's most dangerous spider' after a bite left a man struggling to walk. Prof Trewick led efforts to confirm the spider's identity by comparing its physical features and analysing DNA from a sample collected in Porirua. Since the initial Porirua sighting, the spider has also been confirmed in Christchurch, Nelson, Northland and Waikato. "It appears to be thriving in urban environments, particularly around gardens and outdoor furniture. "It is most often found under plant pots, tarpaulin and in fence crevices, while males are seen at night on exterior walls or the ground." Although considered less dangerous than black widows, the venom of the noble false widow (Steatoda nobilis) contained similar toxins. "Particularly concerning is its association with antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Infections resulting from bites don't always respond to treatment, and that's a significant medical concern,' Professor Trewick said. Pest Management Association of New Zealand executive councillor Vicki Smith is yet to encounter the spider in the South Island. However, if it made its way even further south, they are well equipped to deal with it, she said. "It'd be easy. "It's only like dealing with the white-tails." Ms Smith pointed to another invasive species that appears to be making its way south, which could soon pop up in Dunedin. Although there had not been any reports of the Argentine ant south of Timaru, it was on its way, Ms Smith warned. Originally from the Canary Islands and Madeira, the spider has become well established in Europe, North and South America and now New Zealand. While the full impact of this spider on native wildlife was yet to be fully understood, Professor Trewick says its arrival reflected broader global patterns. 'This is part of a wider pattern of biodiversity loss and rapid environmental change. Invasive species like this one highlight how globalisation and climate shifts are reshaping our ecosystems, often at the expense of native wildlife.' Suspected sightings of this spider can be freely uploaded to iNaturalist NZ and help researchers discover the extent of the invasion. - APL
Time of India
01-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Venomous noble false widow spider confirmed established in New Zealand
Venomous noble false widow spider now present across New Zealand The noble false widow spider ( Steatoda nobilis ), one of the world's most invasive arachnids, has officially established itself in New Zealand. First confirmed in Porirua in November 2024, the species has since been recorded in Christchurch, Nelson, Northland, and Waikato, indicating widespread urban colonization. The spider, originally native to the Canary Islands and Madeira, has previously spread to Europe and both North and South America. According to experts, it now appears to thrive in New Zealand's urban environments. It is commonly found in gardens, around outdoor furniture, and particularly beneath plant pots, tarpaulin, and in fence crevices. Males are typically observed at night on exterior walls or at ground level. Also read: Health emergency: Dengue fever outbreak declared in Rarotonga, New Zealand Professor Steven Trewick, an evolutionary ecologist at Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University, led the confirmation effort. He compared physical features of collected specimens and conducted DNA analysis on a sample obtained in Porirua by Gavin Picknell. Live Events 'Although considered less dangerous than black widows, the venom of Steatoda nobilis contains similar toxins,' said Trewick. 'Particularly concerning is its association with antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Infections resulting from bites don't always respond to treatment, and that's a significant medical concern.' Medical risks linked to noble false widow spider bites The noble false widow spider is venomous but not generally considered aggressive. Bites typically occur in self-defense and may cause localized symptoms including redness, swelling, and pain. However, more serious medical effects have been documented in some cases. A spokesperson from Massey University reported that some bite incidents have resulted in tissue necrosis, nausea, hypotension, impaired mobility, and secondary bacterial infections. Notably, some of these infections may be resistant to standard antibiotics, raising concerns within the medical community. Also read: China facing new Covid-like pandemic? Here's everything we know about it so far The spider's venom contains neurotoxins similar to those found in black widow species, although typically less potent. Nonetheless, its presence in populated regions and proximity to human activity has prompted health and ecological monitoring. Citizen reports aid research into Steatoda nobilis spread Researchers encourage the public to participate in tracking the spread of Steatoda nobilis through the iNaturalist NZ platform. Suspected sightings can be uploaded with photos, enabling scientists to better understand the range and behavior of this invasive, venomous spider . Ongoing monitoring will help assess the long-term ecological and public health implications of the noble false widow spider's establishment in New Zealand.
Otago Daily Times
30-06-2025
- Health
- Otago Daily Times
Venomous spider with 'sinister bite' spotted in South Island
Researchers are warning about the spread of a venomous spider with a "potentially sinister bite" which has officially established itself in New Zealand. The noble false widow spider has been sighted in Christchurch and Nelson after first being seen in Wellington last December. Professor Steven Trewick, an evolutionary ecologist at Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University said the spider was not aggressive but may bite in self defence. "Most bites result in mild symptoms such as swelling, redness and pain. "However, some have been linked to more serious effects including tissue necrosis, nausea, hypotension, impaired mobility and secondary bacterial infections that may be resistant to standard antibiotics." The invasive arachnid has been dubbed "Britain's most dangerous spider' after a bite left a man struggling to walk. Prof Trewick led efforts to confirm the spider's identity by comparing its physical features and analysing DNA from a sample collected in Porirua. Since the initial Porirua sighting, the spider has also been confirmed in Christchurch, Nelson, Northland and Waikato. "It appears to be thriving in urban environments, particularly around gardens and outdoor furniture. "It is most often found under plant pots, tarpaulin and in fence crevices, while males are seen at night on exterior walls or the ground." Although considered less dangerous than black widows, the venom of the noble false widow (Steatoda nobilis) contained similar toxins. "Particularly concerning is its association with antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Infections resulting from bites don't always respond to treatment, and that's a significant medical concern,' Professor Trewick said. Originally from the Canary Islands and Madeira, the spider has become well established in Europe, North and South America and now New Zealand. While the full impact of this spider on native wildlife was yet to be fully understood, Professor Trewick says its arrival reflected broader global patterns. 'This is part of a wider pattern of biodiversity loss and rapid environmental change. Invasive species like this one highlight how globalisation and climate shifts are reshaping our ecosystems, often at the expense of native wildlife.' Suspected sightings of this spider can be freely uploaded to iNaturalist NZ and help researchers discover the extent of the invasion. - APL
Scoop
26-05-2025
- Science
- Scoop
Sustainable Science In Action At Fieldays© 2025
Press Release – Massey University The project began with New Zealands first large-scale genetic study of working dogs, sequencing the genomes of 249 Huntaways, Heading Dogs and crossbreds. This revealed over 19 million DNA variants, a vital first step in uncovering how genetics … Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University returns to Fieldays® with a future-focused, solution-driven theme, showcasing research that delivers practical advancements in agricultural efficiency, sustainability and longevity. Visit us at the Mystery Creek Pavilion (site PE51) from 11-14 June to see how Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University is shaping the future of farming and how you can be part of it. Laying the genetic groundwork for the future of Aotearoa New Zealand's working dogs Right Dog for the Job is a three-year research project led by Massey University, in collaboration with industry partners including Pāmu and Focus Genetics. The project is co-funded by the Ministry of Primary Industries through the Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures Fund and supported by The goal? To better understand the genetics of New Zealand's unique working dogs and lay the foundation for future genetic testing and selection tools. The project began with New Zealand's first large-scale genetic study of working dogs, sequencing the genomes of 249 Huntaways, Heading Dogs and crossbreds. This revealed over 19 million DNA variants, a vital first step in uncovering how genetics influence health and performance. Researchers are now analysing the frequency of potentially harmful recessive variants, comparing them to those known in overseas breeds. This work supports more informed breeding decisions and aims to improve the health, working ability and longevity of our working dogs. Of nearly 400 known variants linked to health or physical traits in other breeds, 27 were found in the dogs sampled with five appearing at high enough frequency to warrant further testing. Learn more about the five DNA variants. Professor Matt Littlejohn and members of the research team will be at Fieldays to share insights into the project and demonstrate how selective breeding can support healthier, more capable working dogs. Visitors can even get hands-on with an interactive 'Tinder for working dogs' experience, where they'll be tasked to identify the healthiest breeding matches based on genetic compatibility. Dog whistles will be up for grabs for successful participants, along with the chance to win a genetics kit, thanks to As the project moves into its next phase, including collecting more DNA samples and collaborating with farmers and vets to track health and performance traits, Professor Littlejohn says connecting with the farming community is key. 'The long term aim is to enable future tools for breeders and dog owners, not just to avoid genetic disease but to select for the traits that really matter on farm. If the research can help pick the best dog for the job, it will make a real difference to farm efficiency and the wellbeing of both dog and handler.' Where culture uplifts innovation: packaging that expands with purpose Bringing together contemporary Māori design and engineering science has been the focus of the Kōwhaiwhai Pūtoi Koiora (auxetic kōwhaiwhai) packaging project, a collaborative effort between our College of Creative Arts and College of Sciences. The fruit packaging uses an auxetic design, a material that expands rather than contracts when stretched, unlike conventional materials. Developed as part of a Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) Smart Ideas project, a key objective was to create packaging that not only protects delicate horticultural products more effectively but also celebrates Māori culture. Kōwhaiwhai patterns are woven into the design, symbolising protection and care, signifying that what lies within is taonga (treasure). Packaging expert Dr Eli Gray-Stuart explains that the moulded tray suspends the fruit off the base of the box, working in tandem with the auxetic structure to offer an added layer of protection. 'The goal of this packaging is twofold. First, it minimises damage to the fruit, which can reduce their saleability and contribute to food waste. The auxetic material absorbs and distributes impact more evenly, moulding around the product to protect it during transport. Second, the Kōwhaiwhai Pūtoi Koiora design integrates cultural and company values and narratives into a visually compelling and sustainable packaging solution.' The packaging has already been used successfully by Māori Kiwifruit Growers Incorporated at their collaborative marketing launch in Hawaii last year. The team hopes to move toward commercial production through future partnerships. Visitors to Fieldays can explore demonstrations and prototypes at Massey's stand, where Dr Gray-Stuart will be on hand to share more about the development process and the cultural and scientific thinking behind the final product. Visitors interested in the project will have the chance to take home a keepsake featuring the auxetic kōwhaiwhai packaging material. Mitigating the cost of shearing through self-shedding sheep With many farmers finding that the price of wool no longer offsets the cost of shearing, what was once a profitable process is now an increasing expense. To explore alternatives, a long-term project at Massey's Riverside Farm in Wairarapa is investigating the viability of self-shedding sheep, specifically Wiltshires which naturally shed their fleece once a year. The research has two key aims: first, to model the profitability of transitioning from traditional Romney sheep to self-shedding Wiltshires, and second, to conduct a multi-year flock study tracking the production and performance of the sheep as the flock is gradually bred towards Wiltshire genetics. Read about the background of the self-shedding sheep project. Running since 2020, the project has already yielded promising insights. By collecting animal performance health and wool data from sheep from varying proportions of Wiltshire to compare with the original Romney-type sheep, the study aims to better understand the genetic control of shedding. This study will continue to collect production data to support farmer decision making for the future of their flocks. The project will extend until 2028. Dr Nick Sneddon and his team will be sharing more about the project at Fieldays, including its findings and what they could mean for the future of farming in New Zealand. 'We've noticed a range of how much shedding the sheep in our trial will do, and that variation is really useful for to selecting the next generation. Understanding the drivers of these differences means farmers can move more quickly toward a fully shedding flock, while still keeping the other important traits they value in their non-shedding sheep. We're also digging into the genetics behind self-shedding. The goal is to eventually develop a genetic test so we can easily identify which sheep carry the right genes,' he says. Discover your future with Massey Massey experts will also feature at the MPI Science for Farmers site, providing updates on Whenua Haumanu, New Zealand's most comprehensive regenerative and pastoral agriculture research programme, and the Catchment Solutions project, which builds capability to improve freshwater outcomes. Our experts will be on hand all week to discuss the latest in these projects, and how farmers, communities and others can get involved. Programme Leader Professor Danny Donaghy will be giving an informative talk on diverse pastures on Thursday 12 June at 9.30am at the MPI Science for Farmers site. You can also catch Bachelor of Agriculture Science alumna and KS Agri consultant Nerissa Edwards at the Wāhine toa o te Whenua – Young Leaders panel discussion, taking place at site E38 on Thursday 12 June from 10:30 to 11:30am. The panel provides a platform for young female leaders in the food and fibre sector to share their experiences and highlight the diverse range of roles available. Academic and Future Student Advisors will be available throughout the four days to answer course-related questions and connect visitors with study and career opportunities. With over 150 qualifications and degrees on offer across five colleges, our advisors can set you on the right course for your success.
