Tristan Tongi Petelo Ah-Sui is one of a few within his extended family to complete a university degree, but knows it's those loved ones who share in and helped reach the achievement - as honoured in Pasifika culture.

On Monday, Mr Ah-Sui graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from Waipapa Taumata Rau (Te Reo Māori for University of Auckland) after studies aided by family and done with a cohort of Pasifika students beside him on the journey.

Based in Pukekohe, a 50-odd kilometre drive to the city, or hour-plus via public transport, his parents were sometimes his lift in, amongst other sacrifices they made.

While his dad was the provider, his mother paused her studies to help support the family.

Mr Ah-Sui was also raised by his grandmother.

"We didn't have much, but that never stopped my parents from serving whenever they could," he said.

"I've come to truly understand the meaning of 'it takes a village to raise a child' - because I am that child."

His Sāmoan, Tongan, Solomon Islands and Chinese heritage, during study joined as an student ambassador for the Office of the Pro Vice-Chancellor Pacific, was awarded a Pacific Peoples emerging leader award and founded the Village Arts Association at the university.

"There's a silent pressure that comes from knowing your journey isn't just yours, that you carry your family's hopes and dreams with you," he said.

He added in a broader sense leadership has it's basis in individual achievement.

"But that's not how we lead as Pasifika. Our leadership is collective. It's about moving with purpose and making sure that we don't rise alone."

On graduating, Mr Ah-Sui honoured his grandparents, in particular his late nan Taulagia Tafiti.

"I carry you with me on the stage as an ode to your tautua and the great sacrifice you have made for us. My degree is yours," he said.

He also said a saying from his first year stuck with him.

"Pacific leadership is weaving a fala (traditional mat) you know you'll never lay on, but you're content - knowing one day your children will," Mr Ah-Sui said.

Soon there could be three university graduated within a 10-sibling immediate family.

His older brother holds a degree, while his younger brother is in the final semester of studying commerce.

Mr Ah-Sui worked University's Careers, Development and Employability Services with some plans to continue studying.