Peter Latu was the sole 2020 graduate of the School of Surveying’s BSurv (Hons) programme, at the University of Otago on December 19.

After three-years in Dunedin, he gained his degree with first class honours, a significant achievement after moving there, with his wife Salome and three young sons, to study. 

He earlier completed a National Diploma in Surveying at Unitec in Auckland.

The family had moved from Tonga to New Zealand when he was 10-years-old for education and career opportunities.   

While Peter had never envisioned doing honours and a dissertation he embraced the opportunities that opened up.

He is now working alongside his supervisor Dr Robert Odolinski, writing a paper from his honours research for publication.  

He said it was also tough for the family in the last couple of years, especially when Salome went to Otago Polytechnic to do a one-year New Zealand Diploma in Tourism and Travel, as well as working part-time. They had to work their lives round each other’s schedules and also make time for everything else, and especialy during lockdown earlier this year

Peter said, he is lucky to have his parents, brothers and wife believe in him. He also acknowledged his wife's huge help for all the support she has given which has helped ease the pressure and share the load.

Salone said, “I’m so proud of him and for what he’s achieved between study, work, and always having time for our kids and their sporting pursuits."

The family expect to return to Auckland for Peter to start a new job.