Southern Institute of Technology chief executive Penny Simmonds was also surprised by the minister's plans, and said it was ''very difficult'' to see how a national polytechnic helped regional New Zealand. By contrast, the two southern institutions - SIT and Otago Polytechnic - have done well. Mr Ker said two-thirds of the proposed reforms - revamping relationships with business and a new unified funding system - made sense. Otago Polytechnic would make rigorous submissions during consultation to maintain its status and not be a ''mere branch'' Mr Ker said. Mr Hipkins said southern institutions were well placed to be among the first cabs off the rank to host a Cove.

Source: Otago Daily Times February 13, 2019 15:22 UTC