Media Release
22 August 2005

Two of Manukau’s largest organisations have signed an extensive agreement to work together in the interests of the City.

Manukau City Council and Manukau Institute of Technology (MIT) have signed a long term partnering agreement which represents the respect each agency has for the other’s ability to make a significant positive impact on people’s lives.

“This partnering agreement is not simply a memorandum of understanding at a level of high principle,” said MIT Chief Executive Dr Geoff Page, “but rather a series of ways in which many levels of both organisations can contribute to projects of mutual interest.” Dr Page emphasised that MIT had enjoyed a long and close relationship with the City Council and it was now time to see this reflected through this business arrangement.

“Our two organisations share fundamental values, not the least of which is making a difference to the lives of the people we serve” said MCC City Manager Colin Dale.

“We are already working with MIT on developments as diverse as town centre planning, website development and the alignment of our education needs in our growing and diverse city. The agreement is official and public recognition of the relationship we already share”.

MIT Chief Executive Dr Geoff Page agreed, “we are both large, people-centred organisations committed to service and to a vision for the city. This will allow us to bring high levels of connection between what each of us does to meet the challenges and needs of the city”.

“The Partnering Agreement is not a single issue agreement but a Charter that would allow MIT and the Council to work together. It is outward looking and reflects the mutual respect between our two organisations”.

ENDS