Masters Theses

Permanent link for this collectionhttps://hdl.handle.net/10292/5

The Masters Theses collection contains digital copies of AUT University masters theses deposited with the Library since 2002 and made available open access. From 2007 onwards, all theses for masters degrees awarded are required to be deposited in Tuwhera Open Theses & Dissertations unless subject to an embargo.

For theses submitted prior to 2007, open access was not mandatory, so only those theses for which the author has given consent are available in Tuwhera Open Theses & Dissertations. Where consent for open access has not been provided, the thesis is usually recorded in the AUT Library catalogue where the full text, if available, may be accessed with an AUT password. Other people should request an Interlibrary Loan through their library.

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Parasocial Friendship is Magic: An Exploration of Parasocial Relationships, Loneliness and Self-Esteem
(Auckland University of Technology, 2026) File, Lily
Parasocial relationships refer to a perceived relationship between a television viewer and their favourite character. The relationship occurs when a viewer misinterprets a character’s scripted actions as an interaction directed towards them, despite no physical interaction occurring. Some literature suggests that this relationship may protect a fan from negative mental health outcomes, but it is currently unclear if there are discernible benefits that stem from television viewing. The current study aimed to examine the role parasocial relationships may play in relieving feelings of loneliness related to low self-esteem. This was measured through an online Qualtrics survey distributed across four English-speaking countries. Participants were asked to identify how closely they related to their favourite television character, what their main reason for watching television was and how they rank their current self-esteem and level of loneliness. The main method of analysis used was a mediation model to determine if parasocial relationships could mediate the relationship between loneliness and self-esteem. Unfortunately, there were no statistically significant findings in the mediation model. However, the study found that older participants were more likely to engage with television due to loneliness than younger participants were and those with higher levels of self-esteem were more likely to watch television for entertainment purposes rather than as a coping mechanism to boost their mood.
Designing With Nature: Culturally Informed Biophilic Design for Community Wellbeing in New Zealand
(Auckland University of Technology, 2025) Tomlinson, Cilla
This thesis examines how biophilic design and design approaches drawing on Māori concepts can inform the design of a holistic healthcare centre in New Zealand. The research explores how architecture can support human wellbeing and ecological regeneration by creating connections between people, culture and the environment. Grounded in the theoretical foundations of biophilia, environmental psychology and Indigenous Māori worldviews, the study investigates how design can respond to Māori health inequities and broader societal disconnection from nature. Employing a design-led methodology in which concepts are iteratively developed, tested and reflected upon, the study applies Terrapin Bright Green’s 14 Patterns of Biophilic Design, Te Whare Tapa Whā and Te Aranga Māori design principles to a holistic community-focused architectural intervention. The research proposes a framework for integrating biophilic and culturally responsive design approaches through iterative design exploration and critical reflection. The thesis suggests that integrating natural elements and culturally responsive strategies may support occupant health, contribute to ecological resilience, and enable meaningful engagement with place and culture. These outcomes are presented as evidence-informed design propositions rather than empirically measured results. The thesis offers a framework for biophilic and culturally informed design, providing insights for architects, educators and policymakers seeking to integrate human-centred and place-responsive approaches.
Influence of Augmented Reality Technology on Customer Experience in Online Shopping
(Auckland University of Technology, 2026) Bhowal, Anindita
Augmented reality offers a novel approach to enhancing online retail engagement, and its application in online commerce is expanding rapidly. Despite this growth, its influence on key customer experience outcomes remains insufficiently understood. While prior research has, highlighted augmented reality’s potential to enhance engagement and personalization, limited empirical evidence explains how augmented reality affects customer satisfaction and trust. Drawing on flow theory, this study investigates how perceptions of unique augmented reality features, namely interactivity, vividness, and novelty, shape customer satisfaction and trust in online shopping through the mediating roles of flow experience and customer engagement, as well as the moderating role of perceived customer support. To test the proposed conceptual model, an online survey was conducted with 235 participants, and the data were analyzed using Partial Least Square Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM).The findings demonstrate that perceptions of augmented reality features significantly enhance the flow experience, which, in turn, fosters customer engagement and leads to higher levels of satisfaction and trust. However, the results reveal a counterintuitive moderating effect of perceived customer support, as higher levels of perceived customer support, weakens the positive relationship between flow experience and customer engagement. This finding challenges the common assumption that service support uniformly strengthens immersive technology experiences and highlights perceived customer support as a contextual boundary condition rather than a universally reinforcing factor. This study advances theoretical understanding by integrating perceptions of augmented reality features, flow experience, customer engagement, and customer satisfaction and trust into a cohesive framework for online customer experience. Practically, the findings suggest that the effectiveness of augmented reality in online shopping depends not only on the novelty of technology but also on the underlying mechanisms to enhance the online shopping experience, leading to greater customer satisfaction and trust.
Te Raranga Tamaki a Te Manawa (Weaving Auckland & Westgate)
(Auckland University of Technology, 2026) Robertson, Kane
Weaving Tamaki & Te Manawa is a design-led research inquiry into Tamaki Makaurau’s dynamic rhythms in the city. It shows how rhythm analysis investigation can be a critical tool for remediating our arrhythmic urban fabrics. Through this Lens and crucial engagement with Transit-Oriented Development (TOD), the intended research aims to understand the outcomes of Te Manawa’s conflicting rhythms and how TOD can serve as a stakeholder for transforming its synergy into a cohesive, eurythmic urban environment. By taking the research application into a dominant car-dependent setting, we can better understand its conflicts and how Rhythm transformation is applied through design. Through the examination of historical, current, and future planning ideologies, the design project critiques the fragmented urbanism that has shaped Tamaki Makaurau and proposes an alternative planning trajectory that addresses the arrhythmia of sprawl, ecological degradation, and social disconnection. The design process employs adaptive planning-scenario strategies and interventions to explore how the rhythms of the urban fabric in Te Manawa could be altered through TOD implementation. Through this design speculation, the study will help argue whether coordinated and interdisciplinary approaches, such as those from rhythm analysis through the vessel of TOD in Te Manawa and Tamaki Makaurau, are appropriate substitutes for fostering ecological and social regeneration (Eurymia). Instead of proposing an alternative strategic master plan for site intervention, the final output will demonstrate how rhythm analysis can be combined with Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) principles to interpret and reshape the temporal and spatial rhythms of urban life. This approach illustrates that a coordinated design framework for combating arrhythmia in Tamaki Makaurau can be both effective locally and serve as a model for broader applications across Aotearoa.
The Impacts of Teacher Feedback on Self Confidence in Adults with Developmental Dyslexia
(Auckland University of Technology, 2025) Craig, Meoghan
This research explores the practice of audio documentary making to present the experiences of dyslexic people within the Aotearoa New Zealand context. Based on literature research and wider contextual reviews, this research looks to answer the question: what are the impacts of teacher feedback on self confidence in adults with developmental dyslexia? Also how have these impacts influenced them in their subsequent areas of life. Research within the field of dyslexia is often targeted at children and their early life experiences while this research study looks to expand upon that existing knowledge by giving voice to the continued experience of dyslexic adults. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven participants and the following thematic analysis of the interview transcripts provided three sub-themes (’Equity Through Allowances’, ’Passion Led Learning’ and ’Social Stigma) as well as three core themes (’The Impact of a Diagnosis’, Teacher Feedback’ and Formation of Confidence and Self-Esteem) which formed the basis of the audio documentary structure. The ensuing discussion covered the creative process in communicating these themes as well as research analysis supported varying findings; offering non generalisable insights on the adult dyslexic experience, with varying agreements and contradictions depending on each participant’s unique experiences. The choice in medium of an audio documentary through the contextualisation of the audio format was chosen to aid in the accessibility of this research to the dyslexic community to which this study refers.
'Onemato - The Impact of the Fakakoukatea Leadership Programme With Participating Students, School and Community at Onehunga High School
(Auckland University of Technology, 2026) Kanongata'a, Anahila Lose
Titled ʻOnemato, this thesis examines the impact of the Fakatoukatea Leadership Programme at Onehunga High School, exploring how leadership is experienced by participating Tongan secondary students, school leaders and kāinga in Aotearoa New Zealand. Guided by the Fakatoukatea Research Methodology, which integrates the four values of ʻOfa, Tauhi, Fatongia and Tukupā alongside eight practice principles, the study articulates how culturally aligned leadership supports student wellbeing, cultural identity, academic engagement and relational connection across home and school contexts. A qualitative Indigenous research design informed by Tongan epistemology and the knowledge traditions of Ngā Iwi o Moana nui a Kiwa was employed. Talatalanoa served as the primary method of data generation and was facilitated by a Research Assistant to support appropriate relational and ethical practice. Participants included two former students, one set of parents, the school’s Relationship Manager and the Principal. Data was analysed through an iterative, relational and values-led process consistent with the methodological framework. Findings demonstrate that leadership is experienced as relational, culturally centred and sustained over time. Participants described strengthened identity, belonging, confidence and purposeful direction. The eight practice principles illuminated interconnected expressions of leadership growth: Manatu, MataKāinga, Tokonaki, Lea, Mālie mo Māfana, Tuli ke ma‘u hono ngaahi mālie, FetuiakiMālie and Taumu‘a. This study concludes that culturally aligned leadership programmes enhance student wellbeing, identity and engagement while strengthening relational accountability between schools and Tongan communities. It contributes to Tongan scholarship, Indigenous research literature and leadership studies by offering an Indigenous, relational reframing of leadership anchored in cultural identity and intergenerational responsibility rather than positional authority.
Brand Activism in New Zealand: Consumer Boycotting and Buycotting Behaviour toward Global and Local Brands
(Auckland University of Technology, 2025) Nitiworrarat, Rotjarek
Purpose: This study explores how consumers in New Zealand respond to brand activism by global versus local brands, focusing on whether people choose to boycott or buycott. It examines how consumers interpret activist messages, how they judge a brand’s motives and follow-through, and whether the campaign feels culturally relevant in New Zealand. This matters because brand activism is increasingly common and can create real business risk. The same campaign can build trust and loyalty, trigger backlash and punishment, or be ignored. Brands need clearer insight into what drives these different outcomes in a bicultural and multicultural context. Methodology: This research uses a qualitative, interpretivist approach. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with New Zealand consumers following exposure to brief campaign stimuli (priming) featuring a global brand (Patagonia) and a local New Zealand brand (Ecostore). The data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis, supported by a Gioia-style coding process to develop themes from participant insights. Findings: Findings show a global–local trade-off in how consumers evaluate brand activism, with perceived authenticity as the decision rule. Global brands were seen as capable of wider impact but faced a higher proof burden, with greater scepticism when activism appeared generic or reputation driven. Local brands were more often viewed as culturally closer and community-connected, yet credibility weakened when activism seemed performative, inconsistent, or lacking visible outcomes. Across both brand types, these evaluations shaped three response patterns: buycotting when activism was seen as credible and relevant, boycotting when it was viewed as opportunistic or value-incongruent, and disengagement when campaigns felt irrelevant. Originality: This study contributes a New Zealand-based comparison of global versus local brand activism and shows how authenticity and cultural relevance shape boycott, buycott, and disengagement responses. Limitations: The small sample size, culturally concentrated participant group, and differences in the stimuli used for the global and local brand campaigns may affect the generalisability of the findings.
Tapu i te wa hapū: Exploring the Wairuatanga of Te Whare Tangata.
(Auckland University of Technology, 2026) Kupenga-Tamarama, Kaniwa
Background: In Aotearoa, maternity care for wāhine Māori remains shaped by colonial legacies that separate the spiritual, cultural, and relational dimensions of birth from biomedical systems of care. This disconnection is traced and illustrates how it contributes to inequities in Māori maternal and infant outcomes, as well as intergenerational trauma that disrupts wairua and whakapapa. In contrast, empowering indigenous reproductive justice, Māori birthing and parenting traditions, alongside culturally grounded education, recognise Te Whare Tangata—the womb—as a sacred site of creation and sovereignty, where spiritual balance safeguards the wellbeing of māmā, tamaiti, and whānau. Aim: This study explores the wairuatanga of Te Whare Tangata—the sacred house of humanity—as experienced by wāhine Māori and whānau throughout conception, birth, and the early postnatal period. It positions wairua not as abstraction but as the living force connecting whakapapa, atua, whenua, and generations. This research aims to restore visibility to these spiritual dimensions and consider how they might reshape maternity care toward balance, integrity, and mauri ora. Building on the mahi of Māori midwives and scholars before me, this thesis continues the collective effort to reclaim wairua-centred maternity care grounded in Kaupapa Māori, Mana Wāhine, and Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles. Methodology: Seven participants took part in wānanga held on a marae, drawing on maramataka, rongoā, whakawhanaungatanga, and taonga-ā-waha— including karakia, mōteatea, waiata, and pūrakau- as both method and analysis. Findings reveal that when wairua is absent, wāhine experience isolation, fear, and spiritual disconnection; when present, karakia, ūkaipōtanga, whanaungatanga, and tikanga restore tapu, mauri, and confidence in birth. Five interconnected themes emerged, positioning wairuatanga as both epistemology and praxis—a living force linking atua, whenua, and whakapapa. Findings: This research was conducted during major structural reform, including the disestablishment of Te Aka Whai Ora, downsizing of Kahu Taurima and a growing disconnection from the founding bicultural Treaty of Aotearoa. The reforms expose the fragility of Māori-led infrastructures and the urgent need for wairua-led reform to resist further assimilation perpetuated by colonial institutions. This thesis concludes that restoring wairua to maternity care is essential for equity, safety, and sovereignty for wāhine Māori, their whānau and the protection of the workforce. Te Whāriki o Hine-te-Iwaiwa is presented as a sacred patterned map and practical framework for whānau, midwives, and health professionals to enrich maternity and early-years care through cultural, personal, and professional development—a pathway toward an Indigenous gold standard of care defined by whānau.
Transition Metal Complexes of Heptadentate Bipyridine-Based Ligands
(Auckland University of Technology, 2026) Alka Rani
This thesis investigates the coordination behaviour of first-row transition metal ions with novel heptadentate bipyridine-based ligands, focusing on the synthesis, characterization, and complexation properties of two new ligands N-([2,2’-bipydridin]-6-ylmethyl-N’-(2-(([2,2’-bipyridine]-6-ylmethyl)amino)ethyl)ethane-1,2-diamine (bmdet) and N-([2,2'-bipydridin]-6-ylmethyl-N'-(3-(([2,2’-bipyridine]-6-ylmethyl)amino)propyl)propane-1,3-diamine (bmdpt). The ligands were synthesized via reductive amination of 2,2’-bipyridine-6-carbaldehyde with diethylenetriamine (bmdet) and dipropylenetriamine (bmdpt) respectively, and characterized by NMR spectroscopy and high-resolution mass spectrometry, confirming their structures and purity. Cobalt(III) complexes of these ligands were prepared using Na3[Co(CO3)3].3H2O as the precursor. The X-ray crystal structure of [Co2(Hbmdet)2Cl2](ClO4)6 confirmed the dimeric nature of this species, with two six-coordinate Co(III) centres bridged by the heptadentate ligands, with one donor atom of the ligand remaining unbound and protonated. Two chloride ions are bound within cavities formed by the aliphatic and bipyridine parts of the heptadentate ligands. Mass spectrometric studies of complexes of bmdet and bmdpt with Cu2+, Mn2+, Fe2+, Co2+, Ni2+, and Zn2+ demonstrated predominantly mononuclear species in solution. These analyses revealed peaks consistent with 1:1 metal-to-ligand complexes, often showing doubly charged ions corresponding to [M(bmdet)]2+ or [M(bmdpt)]2+ species. Notably, the mass spectra also indicated the presence of ligand-related species, including partially reduced or alternative ligand forms (e.g., L1), which influenced the observed complex distributions. For some metals, such as Mn and Cu, additional peaks suggested equilibrium mixtures involving free ligand, protonated ligand, and metal complexes with varying stoichiometries. Job plot analyses for Cu²⁺ and Co²⁺ with both ligands in acetonitrile revealed differing predominant stoichiometries: Cu²⁺ complexes exhibited a metal-to-ligand ratio near 2:3, implying possible multinuclear or helical assemblies, whereas Co²⁺ complexes favored a 1:1 stoichiometry consistent with mononuclear species. Overall, the combined crystallographic and mass spectrometric data indicate that while heptadentate ligands like bmdet and bmdpt are capable of forming stable complexes with first-row transition metals, complete coordination of all seven donor atoms to a single metal centre is generally precluded. Instead, coordination involves six donor atoms, with the seventh often uncoordinated or facilitating the formation of multinuclear assemblies. These findings provide new insights into the design and binding modes of high-denticity ligands with first-row transition metals, expanding the understanding of coordination chemistry at the upper limits of ligand denticity and highlighting the complex equilibria present in solution.
Emotional Intelligence's Influence on Leadership Practices in Bangladesh's Banking Sector
(Auckland University of Technology, 2026) Hossain, Mohammad Sohrab
The study focuses on the effects of emotional intelligence (EI) on leadership behaviour in the banking sector in Bangladesh. EI refers to the capability to identify, comprehend, control and handle personal feelings and understand and respond appropriately to those of others. It discusses the critical EI competencies of banking managers, the effects of EI on the practices of team management, and its role in conflict management. Leadership concerns in the banking sector, which has a very high rate of technological changes and regulatory system variation, are unique to developing countries such as Bangladesh, where the financial sector faces issues like corruption and political influence. The ability of leaders to manage their feelings and those of other individuals is not only crucial in establishing a fruitful workplace but also in reducing problems in the organisation. In this study, 10 banking managers in Bangladesh were interviewed online using the Zoom platform. The study used a qualitative approach to determine how leaders who possesses high EI are better equipped to understand employees, encourage them, and maintain appropriate communication with them. The study revealed that EI leaders are better team managers, conflict resolvers and are able to adjust to the fast-evolving demands of the banking business. In particular, the study indicates that leaders with a high degree of EI are in a better position to deal with team behaviour, identify emotional issues in conflicts, and ensure effective communication in stressful contexts. The results indicate that EI not only increases the performance of the leader but also promotes the establishment of a favourable work environment and higher employee involvement rates. There is a significant gap in the existing literature on EI and leadership in the context of the Bangladesh banking industry; therefore, this study brings new knowledge about the relationship between EI and leadership performance. It recommends that incorporating EI in leadership training programmes could have several positive effects in changing the performance of banking institutions to a more caring, resilient and flexible leadership style. This study demonstrates the need to carry out further research on the use of EI in leadership, particularly in emerging markets where there are specific socio-economic and cultural influences.
From Farm to Fork: An Architectural Response to Food Insecurity & Bridging the Natural World, Food Producers, & Consumers for a Community Resilient Food Landscape
(Auckland University of Technology, 2026) Gray, Bonnie
With the decline of our environment’s health and the failings of Aotearoa’s food system, this project identifies the dangers of food insecurity and the fragmentation between food producers, consumers, and the natural environment. Urban sprawl into food-productive landscapes threatens domestic food security, diminishing versatile soils, and creating tension between new residents and existing farmers. This research is an architectural solution that mediates these tensions by designing a built food haven in Pukekohe, Aotearoa. The architecture connects food producers, consumers, and the environment within a food hub that provides community infrastructure, knowledge exchange, accessibility to local food production, food sovereignty, and collaborative initiatives between the three stakeholders. Bridging these relationships in place fosters awareness of food system and living system processes that food production and people’s health depend on.
Explainable Artificial Intelligence Methods for Spiking Neural Networks
(Auckland University of Technology, 2026) Jung, Jane
As the demand for energy-efficient Artificial Intelligence (AI) grows, Spiking Neural Networks (SNNs) have emerged as a leading neuromorphic alternative to traditional deep learning. However, the complex, non-linear temporal dynamics of SNNs often result in a black box nature, hindering their adoption in high-stakes domains such as cybersecurity and clinical healthcare. This thesis proposes a novel framework, the SNN-based MLP (SNN-MLP), which utilises a non-spiking surrogate model to interpret the decision-making logic of a trained SNN. By mapping the high-dimensional activity of spiking ensembles to a differentiable architecture, the framework enables the application of post-hoc Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) techniques, such as Shapley Additive ExPlanation (SHAP), to provide transparent feature-level explanations. The framework is validated through two diverse case studies. The first case study evaluates network traffic for detection, and demonstrates a successful translation of single-dimensional SNNs into Multi-Layer Perceptrons (MLPs) and the resultant SNN-MLP successfully identifies malicious features with up to 87% accuracy, and also aligns in terms of interpretability with a baseline MLP. The second case study applies the framework to personalised depression modelling using more complex SNN architectures along with multimodal datasets. The results demonstrate that the SNN-MLP functions as a high-fidelity surrogate for multi-dimensional SNNs as well, identifying clinically relevant triggers-primarily anxiety and dietary factors-that align with established benchmarks. While the study notes challenges regarding data scarcity and class imbalance in clinical settings, the consistent overlap between the SNN and its surrogate proves that spiking architectures can achieve competitive predictive performance without sacrificing interpretability. Thus, this thesis provides a foundation for mathematically grounded, energy-efficient, and explainable AI, offering a pathway towards the deployment of explainable SNN systems in safety-critical and security infrastructures.
Exploring Psychosocial Safety Climate within New Zealand Midwifery
(Auckland University of Technology, 2025) Shareef, Rachel
Psychosocial Safety Climate (PSC) is a concept that refers to employees’ perceptions of psychological safety within an organisation. While research on PSC has grown globally over the past decade, there remains a gap in the literature concerning its application within healthcare settings. Consequentially, an integrative review was conducted to determine where PSC had been measured for healthcare professionals internationally. The review revealed a clear need for further investigation into PSC in midwifery. Existing literature in healthcare underscores the critical role PSC plays in promoting employee wellbeing and enhancing patient care outcomes. Insight from the integrative literature review informed the development of the research question; ‘How is Psychosocial Safety Climate perceived by employed midwives working in New Zealand, and how does it influence their work engagement, job satisfaction, organisational commitment, and turnover intentions?’ Following the integrative literature review, PSC was examined for the midwifery healthcare profession, where significant recruitment and retention challenges were identified. A quantitative study was conducted to address the gap in knowledge. It examined the perceived Psychosocial Safety Climate among midwives working in hospitals and birthing facilities, and explored how PSC influences work engagement, job satisfaction, organisational commitment, and turnover intentions. The study utilised three years of data from the New Zealand Midwifery Work and Wellbeing (NZ-MidWoW) Study, with participants drawn from the New Zealand College of Midwives. It was hypothesised that PSC would be positively associated with work engagement, job satisfaction, and commitment, and negatively associated with turnover intentions. The findings supported these hypotheses, highlighting the significant role PSC plays in shaping midwives’ workplace experiences and retention. The Job Demands-Resources model was employed to examine Psychosocial Safety Climate as a job resource. The study’s findings supported the relevance of this theoretical framework, demonstrating that PSC functions as a protective factor that enhances employee wellbeing and organisational outcomes. Social Exchange Theory was used to explain the relationships within the findings. Social Exchange Theory helped explain how the level of PSC within an organisation can influence reciprocal behaviours—where positive PSC fosters constructive employee attitudes and behaviours, while low PSC may lead to disengagement or withdrawal. However, both the integrative literature review and the empirical findings of this study indicate that the JD-R model provides the most appropriate and comprehensive framework for understanding PSC in the context of midwifery. Based on these insights, key recommendations include the implementation of organisational policies that promote PSC, training for all employees on PSC principles, and ensuring leadership accountability in fostering a psychologically safe work environment.
Reimagining Auckland's Suburbs: Exploring How Auckland’s Urban Design Was Informed by Past Transport Technologies, and How It Can Be Shaped by Future Transport Systems
(Auckland University of Technology, 2025) Lynch, Malachy
Auckland presents a unique urban context shaped by its rapid post-war shift toward low-density, car dependent development, which has influenced the city’s suburban form and travel behaviour. New Zealand has one of the highest rates of per-capita car ownership in the world, with approximately 869 vehicles per 1,000 people, reflecting a deep reliance on private automobiles. In Auckland, 58 percent of all car trips are under 5 km, and 30 percent are under 2 km, indicating that many journeys could reasonably be made by walking, cycling, or public transport. This dependency has contributed to sprawling suburbs, long commutes, restricted access to amenities, and ongoing sustainability challenges. This thesis examines the historical evolution of Auckland’s transport systems and urban form, from pre-colonial movement patterns and early rail-based settlement through post-war suburban expansion, to understand how planning decisions entrenched car dependency. It then analyses contemporary and emerging transport modes, focusing on realistic, established technologies that can support a shift toward more sustainable and connected neighbourhoods. Building on these insights, the design component of the thesis proposes a staged intervention framework that transitions from temporary, low-cost street improvements to permanent built outcomes. These interventions demonstrate how suburban streets can be reimagined as people-focused, ecologically supportive, and locally productive spaces. Using Balmoral as a case study, the project shows how tactical urbanism, community-led activation, and incremental infrastructure upgrades can collectively reduce reliance on private vehicles while enhancing social, ecological, and mobility outcomes. Together, the research and design illustrate a pathway for evolving Auckland’s suburban environments into more connected, resilient, and people-centred places.
Oral Health Therapy Graduates’ Preparedness for Practice in Aotearoa New Zealand
(Auckland University of Technology, 2026) Smith, Jacqui
Background/Introduction Oral health therapists (OHTs) deliver oral health care to diverse communities across Aotearoa New Zealand (NZ). However, there is limited research examining OHTs’ preparedness for practice in NZ and internationally. Studies on dentists’ and other oral health professionals’ preparedness for practice, in NZ and internationally, suggest an adequate level of preparedness with notable gaps in complex clinical and cognitive tasks (Ali et al., 2017; Almahdi et al., 2023; Altan et al., 2024; Gaballah et al., 2025; Javed et al., 2024; Javed et al., 2023; Mat Yudin et al., 2020; Nalawade et al., 2024). The aim of this research was to explore the oral health therapy graduates’ preparedness for practice and to explore factors that influence preparedness. Methods A mixed-methods approach, using an anonymous online survey, was distributed to OHT graduates from NZ universities who graduated between 2020 and 2023. The survey included demographics, a modified version of the Dental Undergraduates’ Preparedness Assessment Scale (DU-PAS), Likert-type items, and open-ended items. Results Seventy-nine eligible responses were received (response rate 24.5%). Most participants were female (88%), and 52% were aged 24–28 years. The mean total DU-PAS score was 73.1 ± 13.4, with higher scores in Part B (behavioural/cognitive domain; 39.3 ± 7.8) than Part A (clinical domain; 33.8 ± 8.0). Participants felt mostly confident in core clinical and behavioural domains but reported challenges in areas with limited undergraduate exposure. Key factors that influenced preparedness included clinical experience, COVID-19, mentorship, personal attributes and experiences, curriculum and teaching, real-world preparation, and transition. Conclusion Overall graduates felt mostly clinically and cognitively prepared for practice, with confidence levels comparable to international counterparts. However, gaps were noted in advanced clinical knowledge, treatment planning, and some behavioural and cognitive domains. Multiple factors, both intrinsic and extrinsic, influenced OHTs’ preparedness for practice, highlighting its complex nature. Key recommendations to increase graduates’ preparedness include increasing clinical placement and simulation hours, aligning curriculum with real-world practice conditions for universities, introducing scaffolded transitional support structures for all new graduates, and conducting further research to explore the nuances associated with OHTs’ preparedness for practice.
Cross Cultural Organisations and Knowledge Sharing Behaviour: A Study on the Banking Sector in Pakistan
(Auckland University of Technology, 2026) Raza, Ali
Multicultural workforce composition has become a defining feature of contemporary organisations, particularly in large service sectors where employees from diverse linguistic, ethnic, and regional backgrounds work closely within shared organisational structures. While such diversity offers opportunities for innovation and enriched perspectives, it also presents challenges for coordination and knowledge sharing, especially in contexts characterised by hierarchical supervision and knowledge-intensive work processes. This study examines knowledge sharing behaviour (KSB) within Pakistan’s banking sector, focusing on how ethical leadership (EL) and cultural diversity management (CDM) are associated with employees’ willingness to share knowledge, and how trust operates as a mediating mechanism in these relationships. Grounded in Social Exchange Theory and Organisational Support Theory, the study conceptualises knowledge sharing as a relational and reciprocal outcome shaped by leadership practices and organisational support signals within multicultural workplaces. The study is situated in Islamabad, Pakistan, a metropolitan and administratively significant setting marked by pronounced cultural diversity and a large concentration of banking institutions. Adopting a quantitative research design, the study draws on survey data collected through self-administered questionnaires administered online via Qualtrics to employees working in banks in Islamabad, Pakistan. The findings indicate that both EL and CDM are positively associated with KSB, while trust is also positively related and operates as a significant mediating mechanism linking EL and CDM. By integrating the study constructs within a single empirical framework, this research contributes to the organisational behaviour literature and offers insights relevant to global multicultural organisational environments. The study offers practical insights for banking organisations, managers, and policymakers by highlighting considerations relevant to supporting knowledge-sharing behaviour and sustained organisational effectiveness in culturally diverse workplaces.
The Effect of Online Delivery of the MS-Get-a-Head-Start Programme on Physical Activity and Exercise Self-Efficacy in People with Multiple Sclerosis: A Feasibility Study and Pilot Randomised Controlled Trial
(Auckland University of Technology, 2026) Davy, Gillian
New Zealand has a higher-than-average global prevalence of multiple sclerosis. This prevalence has significantly risen in the last decade and is likely to continue to rise in line with global trends. Despite the well-documented benefits of regular physical activity for people with multiple sclerosis, levels of inactivity within this population remain high. This highlights the pressing need for accessible and tailored physical activity programmes specifically designed to support people with multiple sclerosis. Accurate information on physical activity is one of the highest unmet needs of people with multiple sclerosis. To improve accessibility there has been an increase in online delivery of exercise programmes, however, to date these all still require therapist interaction through the programme. The online MS Get a Head Start programme is one of the first fully automated exercise and education programmes for people with multiple sclerosis. It is a six-week programme incorporating interval-based exercise, education and behaviour change strategies aimed at enhancing the capacity and confidence of people with multiple sclerosis to engage in exercise and physical activity. A pilot study was completed measuring the feasibility and safety of the online MS Get a Head Start programme as well as the impact on self-reported physical activity levels and exercise self-efficacy. Thirty-five people with multiple sclerosis were randomised to the intervention or waitlist control group. The intervention group received two exercise and one education video weekly for six weeks, plus goal setting and self-reflection course work. Feasibility, self-reported physical activity, and exercise self-efficacy, were assessed at baseline, week seven, and week twelve. Feasibility outcomes indicated that recruitment to the study was highly successful, reflecting strong interest and demand for an online exercise programme among people with multiple sclerosis in New Zealand. The intervention was found to both useful and easy to use by the participants, and importantly, no adverse events attributable to the programme were observed, supporting its safety. However, the study had a substantial loss to follow-up within the intervention group. The pilot study was not powered to find significance. Physical activity levels remained consistent, although both groups demonstrated a decline in exercise self-efficacy across the study, contrary to the initial hypothesis that the programme would strengthen participants’ confidence in their ability to exercise. Taken together, these findings suggest that the online MS Get a Head Start programme is safe, acceptable, and feasible to deliver in an online automated format to reach more people living with multiple sclerosis across New Zealand. However, further refinement is required before progressing to a larger scale randomised controlled trial.
Exploring the Dimensions of Virtual Influencer Effectiveness: A Conceptual Framework for Realness and Relatability
(Auckland University of Technology, 2026) Dcunha, Ryan
This thesis investigates how Perceived Realness and relatability, considered independently at the persona and message levels, influence consumer trust and engagement with VIs in digital marketing. Prior research frequently combines persona characteristics (e.g., human-likeness, behavioural realism) and message techniques (e.g., narrative tone, emotional framing) into a single “authenticity” construct, which limits theoretical accuracy. Based on Parasocial Relationship (PSR) theory, I propose and test a dual-lens 2x2 framework that views persona-level and message-level realness and relatability as independent yet interconnected pathways through which VIs develop parasocial connections, trust, and engagement. A qualitative study design was used. Sixteen social media users were purposively recruited (N = 16; age ≥ 21; active on Instagram and/or TikTok) and participated in semi-structured interviews conducted either in person or online. Each interview lasted 30 to 45 minutes and was audio-recorded with the participant’s agreement. Audio-recorded interviews were transcribed, resulting in a total of 108 pages of transcripts, and processed inductively using Braun and Clarke’s (2006) thematic analysis. Analysis yielded seven key themes. The findings demonstrate that the proposed 2x2 typology reveals VIs produce influence through two separate design configurations: Synergised and Complementary. The findings indicate that Synergised Relatability promotes emotional connection, whereas Synergised Realness promotes cognitive trustworthiness. Importantly, complementary designs bridge gaps by allowing Message Relatability to compensate for poor persona reality (for example, cartoon-like avatars). Furthermore, interaction serves as a key moderator, increasing authenticity in all configurations. The thesis makes a theoretical contribution by clarifying how persona and message mechanisms collaborate to produce PSRs with non-human agents, a methodological contribution by demonstrating the value of depth-interview evidence for understanding these processes, and a practical contribution by providing a Strategic Framework for VI Implementation as actionable advice for marketers. This framework guides marketers in calibrating visual and narrative cues to balance cognitive trust and emotional resonance, avoiding the uncanny valley while maximising engagement.
Understanding How Pay Transparency Shapes Generation Z Organisational Commitment in the Fashion Retail Industry
(Auckland University of Technology, 2026) Thwe, Thin Nadi
Pay transparency has gained increasing attention as organisations reconsider how pay information is communicated within contemporary employment relationships (Schnaufer et al., 2022; Brown, 2022). At the same time, organisational commitment remains a challenge in sectors characterised by high workforce mobility and insecure employment, such as fashion retail (Kalleberg, 2009). While these issues have often been examined separately, less is known about how they intersect for Generation Z employees in retail settings, particularly in New Zealand (Baker et al., 2019). This study explores how Generation Z employees in the New Zealand fashion retail industry experience pay transparency and how these experiences relate to their understanding of organisational commitment. Using an interpretivist phenomenological orientation, semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven Generation Z retail employees in Auckland. Data were analysed through inductive thematic analysis, informed by Organisational Commitment Theory (Meyer & Allen, 1991), Equity Theory (Adams, 1963), Expectancy Theory (Vroom, 1964) and Organisational justice theory (Greenberg, 1987). The findings suggest that pay transparency is experienced less as a direct driver of commitment and more as a reference point through which employees evaluate organisational justice, particularly fairness in outcomes, processes, and managerial communication (Castilla, 2015; Bamberger & Belogolovsky, 2017). Commitment was commonly described as provisional and shaped by both fairness perceptions and economic constraints (Kalleberg, 2009). The study offers context-specific insight into the conditional role of pay transparency in shaping organisational commitment among Generation Z retail workers.
AI Prediction for Stock Trading
(Auckland University of Technology, 2026) Yi, ChengLin
The key element of stock trading is accurate stock price prediction, and reliable and stable decisions can significantly affect profitability. Traditional prediction models have limitations due to intricacies and instantaneous dynamics within financial environments. This study explores an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven stock price prediction method tailored for stocks trading, using advanced machine-learning and deep-learning models to improve forecast accuracy and trading efficiency. An initial focus was placed on the key role of feature engineering and selection in optimizing model performance. It integrates a variety of technical indicators such as moving averages (SMA/EMA), relative strength index (RSI), MACD and Bollinger bands, as well as principal analysis (PCA) and quantum-inspired feature extraction, and scaling methods such as MinMaxScaler are used to standardized input data. These are combined with advanced feature filtering techniques to enhance overall model performance. The research integrates different AI methods, feature engineering with historical price trends, market indicators, and sentiment insights drawn from financial news and social platforms, Natural Language Processing (NLP) technology is included to enhance the prediction model by capturing market sentiment and investor behavior. These include Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) networks, transformer models, LightGBM, Reinforcement Learning (RL), and Hybrid LSTM + Transformer with Quantum-Enhanced Feature Selection. To evaluate the true effectiveness of the AI models, the study conducted rigorous back testing using real-time stock price data and annualized returns using actual simulated investments. The performance of AI-driven models was compared with traditional benchmarks, including ARIMA, GARCH, and classic machine learning algorithms such as support vector machines (SVM) and random forests. The main technical indicators used to evaluate the model are R², mean absolute error (MAE), and root mean square error (RMSE). The experimental results demonstrate that the AI hybrid model achieves R² = 0.97 (MAE = 0.0186, RMSE = 0.0278) on NVDA 15-minute intraday data in predicting short-term stock price movements, which is essential for ultra-short-term and ultra-high frequency trading strategies. Model interpretability was further explored using SHAP (which measures the average marginal contribution of each feature) and LIME (which provides instance-level explanations), helping ensure transparency in the AI-driven decision-making process. In addition, a hybrid data merging strategy and multiple feature engineering data are proposed to increase robustness by integrating a hybrid AI structure of deep learning and traditional statistical models. This study sheds light on how AI can help lower risks associated with stock market investments and optimizing options trading decisions. However, challenges such as market emergencies events, data noise, and overfitting require further exploration. Overall, this research demonstrates the power of AI models to predict the financial market and provides help for investors and researchers who use AI to make advanced financial forecasts.

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