Hayward College is owned by the University of Otago. It's operated by the Campus and Collegiate Life Services Division – part of the Operations Group and is managed by the Warden and the team.
History of Hayward College
Hayward was originally built in 1961 as a maternity hospital which explains the warm spacious rooms, corridors and lifts. The former Queen Mary Maternity Hospital was converted to a residential college in 1992.
The building was gifted the name of Hayward after brother and sister Jock and Vera Hayward who had long associations with the University and the Hospital.
Since its hospital days, Hayward has seen some major upgrades and was fully refurbished in 2019 giving the college a very modern feel with open plan communal spaces and drop in study rooms. The dining room was also extended.
In 2025, Hayward was joined to 192 Castle College and like twins, these two colleges now do everything together. One staff team looks after both spaces and the residents are free to share facilities. Together the colleges are referred to as Hayward 192.
Hayward's values
Hayward is a nurturing place that embraces difference and celebrates individuality so that new students can grow and thrive. We show warmth to all and encourage residents to take the lead in creating a home and a first year experience that fits their developing personalities.
Our college motto is: Community and Integrity.
The Hayward Prize
The Hayward Prize was established in 2015 by the Brown and Hayward Families. The Inaugural Prizes were awarded at the end of 2016.
The prizes are for two outstanding community citizens who demonstrate commitment to scholarly achievement. Residential Assistants (and equivalents) are not eligible for nomination.
The prizes are awarded annually by the University Council on the recommendation of the selection panel subject to suitable recipients being nominated.
Each prize consists of a single payment of a minimum amount of $5,000 (depending on available funds). The prize is divided between $2,000 cash, and $3,000 towards the student's tuition fees for the following year.
Hayward College students.