About 580 students graduated with diplomas, degrees, or postgraduate qualifications at a ceremony at the Civic Theatre, followed by the traditional grand procession along Invercargill’s streets.
Among them were sisters Georgia and Madison Robinson from Te Anau who were "stoked" to reach such a milestone together.
Madison was completing a postgraduate diploma in applied health sciences, while her younger sister had just finished her nursing studies.
Madison, who previously obtained an applied health degree at the institution, said the experience was different this time.
"It is actually way more exciting than my first time graduating ... It’s just amazing to have her here with me."
Ernest Ukaegbu, a Nigerian national who had been living in Australia, graduated with a health and safety postgraduate diploma. Mr Ukaegbu decided he needed to travel to New Zealand to celebrate such an important milestone.
"I could not bring my family because it is really expensive. I am spending two nights here and a couple of nights in Wellington, but I couldn’t miss this.
"I am feeling very happy."
Even though his family could not be there, he would celebrate with his friends, he said.
