Waipapa Taumata Rau (University of Auckland) has opened the Fa'anānā Efeso Collins Space at Te Herenga Mātauranga Whānui | General Library, recognising the late politician's life and legacy.
Mr Collins' family, friends and colleagues gathered for an intimate event reflecting on his impact as a former alumnus and staff member.
In February last year, Mr Collins, aged 49, collapsed from cardiac arrest during a ChildFund event in Auckland while raising awareness about clean water in the Pacific.
A siapo (tapa cloth) by Opeta Elika, crafted in Savai'i and dedicated as a measina to Mr Collins was unveiled and blessed by Reverend Uesifili Unasa.
His widow Ms Vasa Fia Collins, with daughters Kaperiela and Asalemo, thanked the University and those attending.
She noted her husband's message before speaking.
"Thank you all for being here to honour our beloved Efeso, and to witness the opening and blessing of the Fa'anānā Efeso Collins Space," she said.
"Efeso would be the first to say that today is bigger than him, it's about our people being seen, our stories valued, our cultures uplifted.
"His name is not on this wall because he was wealthy, I believe he offered something far greater, a legacy of love, faith and service."
The space was created through a partnership between Student and Scholarly Services and the Office of the Pro Vice-Chancellor Pacific to strengthen pathways for Pacific students.
Pro Vice-Chancellor Pacific Professor Jemaima Tiatia-Siau acknowledged those who supported the project, including Ms Sue Roberts and Ms Adrienne Cleland.
She reflected on Collins' early leadership as one of the first Pacific AUSA presidents and his role in shaping equity initiatives.
"Words fall short of all I wish to convey, but what I can say is this, that the hands of many, have worked together, for this occasion, to honour a man who held many in his hands," she said.
"And it is only right and indeed fitting that we recognise a person who gave so much to this University and whose heart was all in for our tauira."
Ms Catherine Dunphy from the Pro Vice-Chancellor Māori office recalled Collins' generosity and commitment to the University.
Pacific Engagement Lead Ms Fay Nanai organised the event and led the transformation of the space.
"When you take the time to reflect on what this space means for our students... this space is so much bigger than Efeso himself," she said.
"His life and legacy provides the blueprint that's needed in order for us to move... this space has been built upon a dream, a vision and a prayer that our parents had, when migrating from across the Pacific."
Mr Collins' leadership extended from campus to public office as he founded the Dream Fono programme for Pacific high school students and advanced student advocacy while AUSA president.
His public roles included Chair of the Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board and Auckland Councillor for the Manukau Ward from 2016 to 2022.
He later ran for Auckland Mayor on a platform focused on reducing inequality and soon entered Parliament in 2023 to continue his advocacy until his passing in 2024.
His maiden speech remains a point of reflection, framing it as a call to action.
"Love is an act of courage, not fear. Love is a commitment to others."
"No matter where the oppressed are found, the act of love is a commitment to their cause - the cause of liberation.
"We are tangata tiriti and we have nothing to fear."
