Academic dress for Graduation

Our Graduation ceremonies are not only a formal occasion but a very special one, and we ask that our graduands dress accordingly.

If you graduate in person, you must wear the appropriate academic dress for your level of qualification(s).

However, you are welcome to wear traditional garments or other cultural taonga such as korowai or kākahu over the top of your gown. These are worn under the hood or stole.

If you wear a headscarf this may also be worn under your trencher if applicable.

What to wear under academic dress

A shirt and trousers, dress, or similar standard of formal clothing is advised. While wearing a collared shirt and tie or buttoned clothing are optional, they may be helpful in attaching your hood securely.

Be mindful of the cooler weather, manoeuvring for the gown and town hīkoi procession, and the order of ceremony when selecting what to wear under your gown. Appropriate clothing and footwear are an important consideration.

What academic dress to wear

What you’ll need to wear is dependent on the qualification you’ll receive. Different levels of qualifications have specific combinations of regalia, such as stoles, hoods, trenchers/mortarboards, or Tudor bonnets.

If you’re receiving more than one qualification, you’ll need to select the regalia you will wear.

If you already hold a qualification, you will normally wear the regalia appropriate for your highest level of qualification.  For example, if you are graduating with a diploma or certificate and hold a degree, you will need to wear the academic dress appropriate to your degree.

Needing help?

If you have any further questions about your academic dress requirements, please contact our graduation team.  Additionally, our gowning team will be on hand if you need any assistance when you pick up your academic dress.