Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What if my results are not through and the closing date is close?
A: Put in your application so we can be sure of having enough stock for you. If you need to cancel we will refund your payment in full, provided we are notified two weeks before the ceremony commences.

Q: My degree is from an overseas university, what hood do I wear?
A: Assuming you are unable to obtain your own robes from overseas, you should wear the Diploma Stole, with the addition of a trencher to signal your graduate status. You cannot wear a Massey hood as that would signal that you hold that degree, which is not true.

Q: I have equivalent graduate status (AES), what do I wear?
A: If you have an overseas degree, refer to the previous question. If you do not have any degree you wear a gown and a stole but no trencher. AES status does not entitle you to wear the equivalent Massey hood.

Q: What if I already have a higher degree than the one being awarded now?
A: You may wear the robes of the higher degree if you prefer, or you may wear the robes of the award being made now.

Q: I am receiving a post grad diploma. Do I wear a hood or a stole?
A: You wear a bachelor gown and a Massey diploma stole. Those who also have previous degree wear a trencher in addition. However, if you already hold a degree you may choose to wear the robes of that degree.

Q: How do I measure my head size?
A: Measure your head circumference just above your eyebrows and straight round the back. (Usually between 50 and 65 cm). Use a piece of string and a ruler if you do not have a measuring tape.

Q: Can I have my hire period extended?
A: Anyone needing an extension should either phone 021 1050767or email gowningmasseyauck@ihug.co.nz in advance to arrange it. There is no bond penalty providing we have been notified.

Q: I am receiving two awards at different ceremonies. Do I pay double fees?
A: No. In most cases you will wear the robes of the higher qualification to both ceremonies.

Q: Can I take my hired robes overseas?
A: No.

Q: How will know if your order has been accepted?

A: When you place an order and pay by

1. credit card your order will be confirmed and and you will receive an order detail and a receipt
2. cheque/cash or online your order will be confirmed but you will not receive a receipt until your payment has been received and recorded.

Q: How long will it take to collect my robes?
A: You should not need more than ten minutes and it would often be quicker.

Q: Can I rehire my robes at some other time, and how much would it cost?
A: No. We borrow our regalia from Academic Dress Hire in Palmerston North and they require them back immediately to use in the Palmerston North ceremonies. You may contact them at enquiries@masseygowns.org.nz regarding rehiring.

Q: When can I expect my letter of confirmation of my order.
A: The confirmation of order form is sent when your payment has been confirmed. Please check it to ensure your order has been correctly processed. You must bring the confirmation of order form with you when collecting the regalia. Please keep it in a safe place.

Q: Can someone else collect my robes for me? or return them?
A: Anyone can perform these services for you, but if you come in person we can ensure that your gown and hat fit correctly. Your friend should bring the letter of confirmation and make sure they know what name and qualification you are registered under. Your bond refund will be given to whoever hands in your robes, unless you give us other instructions (for example to post the cheque).

Q: Can my robes be sent to me by courier if I pay the fee?
A: We regret that we are unable to offer this service at graduation times as we are too busy. We receive the regalia from Palmerston North just before graduation week.

Q: Can you supply the robes of other universities?
A: We can source limited stock from other NZ universities and will hire in what you need if you apply for the regalia before the close off date of 1 March.

Q: Can I buy my own robes to keep?
A: Yes, but not through us. You will need to go to [link] for information.

Q: What is the difference between a graduand and a graduate?
A: A graduand is in the process of becoming a graduate. They have passed their final examinations but until the Chancellor waves that ceremonial trencher over their head they are not fully fledged graduates entitled to wear the trencher themselves, hence the need for a special term.

Q: Why do the Bachelor hoods have the expensive fur trim?
A: The probable answer comes from monastic times and involves what you might think of as inverted snobbery. It is said that the senior monks (the Masters) could claim the best seats near the fire, so they cast off their fur, which was unnecessary to their comfort once they had the better seats. The absence of fur signalled to the world that their status alone would keep them warm.

Q: Which side should the trencher tassle fall?
A: In the US much significance attaches to moving the tassel from one side to the other as the qualification is conferred. This is not a NZ tradition. In NZ it should fall on the left side. Try to keep the top of the trencher horizontal.

Q: Can I pay for my regalia hire in cash?
A: Cash payments may be made at Massey Auckland in the Rm QA2 on Wednesday afternoons (13th, 20th & 27th February only), from 1pm-4pm

Q: What do I do if I change my address?

A: You will need to log on and make the change.   We cannot do it for you.   Alternatively email us at gowningmasseyauck@ihug.co.nz