Meet the eTuts!
The eTuts team is a group of University of Waikato students who help staff and students with teaching and learning technology.
eTuts are based on both our Tauranga and Hamilton campuses. Our office hours are officially Monday to Friday 10am - 2pm but we can usually arrange appointments outside these times if necessary. You can reach us by email etuts@waikato.ac.nz, log a request on the Kuhukuhu IT Service Portal or phone extension 9562.
Te Puna Ako have virtual Ask Me Anything sessions (AMA) for staff, 9–10 and 3–4 Monday to Friday on Zoom.
Atu Bagus Wiguna
Halo, I am Atu Bagus Wiguna, you can call me Atu. Currently, I'm an international PhD student majoring in Economics at the School of Management. My academic journey and experiences have fuelled my passion for data analysis, specifically in the dynamic fields of social and economics. Originally from Indonesia, my journey led me to Hamilton, New Zealand, where I've been blessed with the opportunity to learn and grow as part of eTuts. Being a member of this group allows me to merge my love for technology with a desire to assist and connect with people. So, whether I am immersed in my studies or engaged in a delightful discussion, you will find me embracing each moment with a positive yet curious vibe. Feel free to reach out to eTuts anytime.
Ben Redder
Kia ora, my name is Ben, and I am a recently conferred history doctorate from the University of Waikato, specialising in the representation of history through historical video games with a passion for games set in late Medieval history. As one of many etuts within our fantastic team, my background in PhD research has allowed me ample experience to accommodate some of our current endeavours involving online tech assistance with our current doctoral students, including thesis formatting and referencing systems such as Endnote. When I am not working as an etut and have some free time, you will find me in the Middle Ages as I try to do historical research while surviving plagues, wars, and fire-breathing dragons within a video game world.
If you are struggling with current e-learning technology and apps and you happen to be at the university on a Wednesday, come on over to see me at the etuts office.
Brenda Farias
Saudações! I'm Brenda, a colourful thread in Brazil's cultural tapestry. As both a dreamer and scholar, I navigate the academic labyrinth, pursuing a Ph.D. in Political Science. My odyssey isn't confined to books and theories; it's a passionate dance through the past, present, and future of power interactions. My academic journey has also equipped me with the knowledge to assist fellow students: I'm your guide when it comes to unlocking the hidden tricks of Microsoft Word and PowerPoint, making the often-daunting software tools dance to your tune. Additionally, I'm well-versed in the art of managing references with tools like Mendeley, ensuring that the labyrinth of citations and bibliographies becomes a breeze to navigate. If you need help, I'll be delighted to assist you on this adventure.
Cael Graham
Hello, my name is Cael Graham. I am currently in my fourth year of a conjoint degree. Which is a Bachelor of Science, majoring in Psychology, and a Bachelor of Law. I have many interests and hobbies, including playing the Trombone, computers, coding, reading, and electronics. I am always happy to help with anything and if I do not know the answer I will endeavour to figure it out and get back to you.
Delwynne Hahunga
Delwynne resides in Tauranga, and has completed the UoW MBA in 2022. Happy to assist both students and staff with technology via e-Tut mahi/awhi, Delwynne is based on campus at Tauranga (also happy to visit your class/room/office), available usually Monday afternoons, and for the day on Fridays from 9am. Pop in and say hi, and/or for e-help/tips/tricks. Mauri ora.
George Z. Liu
Kia ora koutou, and Ni Hao! My name is George, and I am one of your e-Tuts team members. A bit about myself: I am currently pursuing a PhD in sustainable tourism management at the Waikato Management School, and I am truly passionate about both academia and serving our students and staff on campus.
I was born and raised in Tianjin, China (A port city of the capital, Beijing). My family migrated to St. Kitts and Nevis in the 2010s, a commonwealth nation in the Caribbean: our north island, namely St. Christopher (Kitts) and the southern part, namely Nevis. Additionally, I am a permanent resident of Vanuatu, belonging to our Pasifika family.
Apart from my PhD studies, I am also doing a postgraduate certificate in tertiary teaching and learning. The cumulative effect of these engagements contributed to a broader perspective in the advancement of my academic technical knowledge. I travel around the world when I am not studying. I have been to 27 countries, including the US, UK, Italy, Greece, Russia, Australia, Singapore, Japan, China, South Korea etc.
Lev Villamar-Hely
Kia ora, my name is Lev (pronounced like the first syllable in "Level") and I'm currently pursuing a Master of Social Sciences in Philosophy at the University of Waikato. I also have a background in computer science - in particular, human-computer interaction - which has given me a unique perspective on the intersection between technology and human behaviour. Along with my technical knowledge, I have developed strong interpersonal skills that allow me to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical individuals, including students and staff. I'm dedicated to helping others succeed with academic technologies and am committed to facilitating their growth and development.
Lizzie Harrison
Kia ora! My name is Lizzie, and I am currently working towards a PhD in Environmental Sciences, specifically focussing on the cumulative effects of stressors on coastal marine ecosystems. Although I have a background in graphic design, my love of being in, on or under the sea has led me to this point in time. My academic journey has given me an immense appreciation for services such as those offered by the e-tuts team whether it be thesis formatting, referencing or help with specific software. So, I endeavour to ‘pay it forward’, utilising the technical skills I have gained along the way to be of assistance to others. Please do not hesitate to contact the e-tuts team, no matter how big or small the query.
Maryam Al Aufi
Kia ora, I am Maryam Al Aufi. Currently, I'm an International PhD student exploring the realm of quality assurance within tertiary education. Originally from Oman, my journey has taken me across borders to pursue my academic passion in New Zealand. I find immense joy and satisfaction in imparting knowledge and helping others with their teaching and learning technology needs. When I'm not studying, I'm off on adventures. I love traveling to new places and learning about different ways of life. It's like a big adventure that helps me grow. I also love hiking – walking in nature and challenging myself. It's super peaceful out there! Need assistance? Drop by the eTuts office – we're here to support you!
Mariyam Ather
Asalaamalaikum!! Mariyam here. Born and raised in New Zealand, I am an undergraduate student at the UoW studying in the Bachelor of Social Science, majoring in Psychology. I have a background from Design and a bit of marketing. A couple little things about myself include a love for animals, especially cats, a love for designing, particularly male fashion, and weirdly enough, I thoroughly enjoy washing cars. I love helping people, so if you have anything you need help with, feel free to pop into the eTuts office. We’d love to assist you.
Muwafaq Al-Tamimi
Hello! My name is Muwafaq Al-Tamimi, and I am an international PhD candidate at the School of Education. My research focuses on international students’ academic and sociocultural adjustment in New Zealand’s higher education. I also have a background in Applied Linguistics and Teaching English as a Second Language (TESOL). Being part of the eTuts team provided me with an excellent opportunity for personal and professional growth. I am excited about this opportunity because it aligns with my passion to help others use technology in the most effective way possible. If you need assistance, feel free to visit the eTuts’ office; we are available and happy to help you!
Wiliame Daveta
Bula Vinaka, my name is Wiliame Daveta, and I'm from Fiji. I'm also an e-tut, and I enjoy working with students and staff as an e-tut. I earned a Bachelor’s of Social Science with a major in psychology and a Bachelors of Health, Sports, and Human Performance in 2021. This year, I'm starting my Master's degree in Health, Sports, and Human Performance. I spend my free time playing sports or hanging out with my family and friends when I'm not working or studying.
Ilisa Ishan
Hey there! I’m Ilisa, and I’m currently pursuing a PhD in Engineering. I’m passionate about researching environmental microbes for their incredible potential, like using them to clean water streams and solve ecological problems—yep, they can do so much more than we can imagine! I come from Brunei, a small, peaceful sultanate on Borneo’s coast. While I’m a bit shy and not the most tech-savvy type, diving into the world of technology has been a wonderful adventure. Now, as part of the eTuts team, I absolutely love helping students and staff with all things tech. Seeing smiles light up when I solve a tech puzzle is the best feeling ever—so please feel free to drop by our office if you need a hand!