News and events from the Otago Arts Fellows
SGCNZ University of Otago Sheilah Winn Shakespeare Festival
News from and about our programmes, staff and students
Greenspace therapeutic for refugees
Wednesday, 14 April 2021 10:41am
From sweeping beaches to a neighbourhood park, therapeutic landscapes are beneficial for former refugees’ health and wellbeing, a University of Otago study has found.
NCPACS conference - complete with PM's message - affords important insights
Thursday, 8 April 2021 2:40pm
Supported by the first of its kind partnership with Twitter in Aotearoa, the National Centre for Peace and Conflict Studies' (NCPACS) conference on 16 and 17 March afforded important insights into the intersection of social media and democracy.
Two Humanities academics elected Royal Society Fellows
Thursday, 1 April 2021 11:51am
The work of two Division of Humanities academics on progressive planning by Indigenous communities and the importance of te reo Māori has been recognised by the Royal Society of New Zealand.
Scholarships for outstanding achievement
Thursday, 1 April 2021 11:50am
From Sports to Music a range of talented young people are on their new journey at University with a scholarship in hand.
Students excel at Dunedin Concerto Competition
Thursday, 1 April 2021 8:38am
Taking to the Dunedin Town Hall stage are three young musicians with carefully crafted pieces to share.
Scholarships provide support, opportunities and motivation
Wednesday, 31 March 2021 3:51pm
The benefits of an Alumni Entrance Scholarship range from vital financial support to increased opportunities and added motivation to do well, according to this year’s scholarship recipients.
New centre first in Aotearoa to research law and society
Tuesday, 30 March 2021 11:35am
The new Otago Centre for Law and Society (OCLaS), Te Pokapū Ture me te Papori ki Ōtākou, will create a multi-disciplinary space to promote and lead discussions about the complex impacts that law has on people’s lives.
Ten students from one Aiga
Tuesday, 30 March 2021 9:22am
Ten members of one Aiga (family) are currently studying at the Dunedin Campus in 2021.
New collection highlights Archibald Baxter's poems
Tuesday, 23 March 2021 11:55am
English and Linguistics third-year student Caitlin Duff has compiled little known poems by Archibald Baxter into a handprinted collection.
New Kaiāwhina Māori knows value of support for tauira
Thursday, 18 March 2021 12:59pm
New Division of Humanities Kaiāwhina Māori — Māori Student Support Officer Tenaya Brown says the support she received from staff, family, friends and colleagues at Otago both reinforced the importance of whakawhānaungatanga and inspired her personal and academic success.
Strong institutional knowledge bonus for new business development manager
Tuesday, 16 March 2021 2:04pm
Dr James Rodgers will bring strong institutional knowledge to his new role as Division of Humanities Business Development Manager.
Second award for Space museum research
Thursday, 11 March 2021 3:34pm
Media, Film and Communication Associate Professor Hugh Slotten is looking forward to boldly researching where he’s gone before; the Smithsonian Institution Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C.
Singers celebrate International Women's Day
Wednesday, 10 March 2021 1:27pm
On Monday a choral "flash mob" met in the Link to mark International Women's Day, celebrate Vice-Chancellor Professor Harlene Hayne's service to Otago, and welcome new Humanities Pro-Vice-Chancellor Professor Jessica Palmer.
Complex yet critical discussions to be had at conference
Wednesday, 10 March 2021 2:07pm
From hate speech to terrorism, regulation to misinformation, social media’s impact on democracy will take centre stage at a University of Otago conference this month.
Outgoing Otago Vice-Chancellor receives Honorary Doctorate
Tuesday, 9 March 2021 4:40pm
Professor Harlene Hayne, the out-going Vice-Chancellor of the University of Otago, will be recognised for her contribution to the institution with the conferring of an Honorary Doctor of Laws degree.
Strong upswing in domestic enrolments at Otago University
Tuesday, 9 March 2021 2:51pm
The University of Otago is currently on track to record solid overall enrolment growth in 2021, with a surge in domestic enrolments more than offsetting the decline in international enrolments.
"Which science . . . whose religion?" Philospher's new book on deprovincializing science and religion
Thursday, 4 March 2021 5:51pm
Philosophy Professor Greg Dawes' new book Deprovincializing Science and Religion offers a global perspective on debates between science and religion.
From Fukushima to (the) Wall St (Journal)
Tuesday, 2 March 2021 11:31am
The Wall St Journal has described Social Anthropology PhD candidate Dreux Richard’s new book as an eclectic collage which weaves together stories of decline, reform and survival in a post-Fukushima Japan already hobbled by economic stagnation and an aging society.
Students gaining experience while helping charities
Tuesday, 2 March 2021 2:34pm
Bridging the gap for both charities and emerging professionals is the aim of the game for the team at Ignite.
Migration publications launched by Centre for Global Migrations
Monday, 1 March 2021 4:21pm
Two new publications tackling the realities of global and local migration were launched by the University of Otago’s Centre for Global Migrations on 26 February.
New book decodes AI for citizens
Thursday, 25 February 2021 4:29pm
A new book on Artificial Intelligence (AI) looks beyond the hype of the “new algorithmic world” to decode how AI already affects everyday life, and what it will mean in future.
Time to break barriers to human embryo research – Otago academic
Thursday, 25 February 2021 10:40am
The law surrounding human embryo research in New Zealand is a “classic example of regulatory failure” and is in urgent need of reform, a University of Otago academic argues.
Donor’s $3 million gift expands options for southern scholars
Wednesday, 24 February 2021 2:04pm
A distinguished neurologist and philanthropist’s generous gift of NZ$3 million will support southern students to pursue their studies in Science, Music, Health Sciences and Engineering at the University of Otago and University of Canterbury (UC).
Dame Fiona Kidman receives inaugural Irish Writing Fellowship
Thursday, 18 February 2021 10:24pm
One of New Zealand’s most accomplished authors and supporters of literature, Dame Fiona Kidman DNZM OBE, is the inaugural recipient University of Otago Centre for Irish and Scottish Studies (CISS) Irish Writers Fellowship.
Buddhism and film focus for new Religion lecturer
Tuesday, 16 February 2021 2:46pm
The links between Chinese Buddhist monasticism and filmmaking may seem obscure, but not for new Religion programme lecturer Dr Lina Verchery.
New Pacific Islands Students' Support Officer wants to share positive experiences
Friday, 12 February 2021 9:41am
New Division of Humanities Pacific Islands Students’ Support Officer Telesia Lei-Mata’afa wants to help students have the same positive experience at Otago that she enjoyed.
Study identifies significance of atmospheric rivers for New Zealand
Thursday, 11 February 2021 11:48am
A University of Otago study has provided the first detailed analysis of atmospheric rivers and their impact on New Zealand weather events.
International award will enable research - when borders open
Friday, 5 February 2021 11:02am
Philosophy’s Dr Zach Weber has won the €45,000 Fredrich Wilhelm Bessel Award.
Master's graduation a giant leap for international student
Wednesday, 3 February 2021 4:59pm
Deepa Kuttikat overcame many challenges in 2020 to gain her Master of International Studies
Eating disorder project wins Christchurch summer studentship awards
Wednesday, 3 February 2021 1:53pm
A project summing up the financial cost of eating disorders in New Zealand took out the top prize at this year’s Christchurch Summer Studentship programme awards.
Three Otago University Press books long-listed
Tuesday, 2 February 2021 2:06pm
Three Otago University Press books have made it on the long list for the 2021 Ockham New Zealand Book Awards.
Pandemic response creates perfect storm for self-harm and domestic violence – Otago study
Monday, 1 February 2021 10:34am
Lockdowns and social distancing may be key to stopping the spread of COVID-19, but they are having other, deadly, effects too, a University of Otago study highlights.
Chair of Irish Studies delivers keynote address at New Zealand Parliament
Friday, 29 January 2021 12:28pm
Sonja Tiernan, Eamon Cleary Professor of Irish Studies gave the inaugural keynote address for the Embassy of Ireland Summer School in New Zealand Parliament.
Sonja Tiernan interviewed on Afternoons with Jesse Mulligan
Thursday, 28 January 2021 12:28pm
The Chair of Irish Studies, Professor Sonja Tiernan was interviewed by Jesse Mulligan on Afternoons RNZ national radio programme.
Ones to Watch: Rebekah Amitrano
Wednesday, 27 January 2021 10:55am
“I’ve known for a long time that I want to do something that helps people and I decided law was a way of helping many people at once.”
Alumni event with Irish Ambassador
Tuesday, 26 January 2021 12:28pm
The Ambassador for Ireland to New Zealand and Samoa, His Excellency Peter Ryan, visited the University of Otago on 26 January 2021 to speak with alumni and staff on the work of the Irish Embassy in Aotearoa.
Jonathan Lemalu – creating his own stage
Tuesday, 26 January 2021 10:14am
Otago alumnus Jonathan Lemalu doesn’t hesitate when it comes to describing the impact of COVID-19 on his career, his family and his health.
Law student makes international debut on the American field
Monday, 25 January 2021 3:11pm
Law student Harrison Boyle is proving that you can have your cake and eat it too when it comes to choosing a lifelong career that supports following your dreams.
Law student makes international debut on the American field
Friday, 22 January 2021 2:11pm
Law student Harrison Boyle is proving that you can have your cake and eat it too when it comes to choosing a lifelong career that supports following your dreams.
Survey first to provide comprehensive view of Irish in Aotearoa New Zealand
Monday, 18 January 2021 8:54am
In addition to containing many ‘firsts’, new research from the University of Otago’s Centre for Irish and Scottish Studies provides comprehensive insights into the identity of Irish people in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Professor Robert Patman's interview with Radio Dunedin
Thursday, 14 January 2021 11:33am
Professor Patman discusses the current political crisis in the United States.
International award nomination for work on copying
Wednesday, 23 December 2020 1:47pm
A highlight of 2020 for English and Linguistics Professor Jacob Edmond was having his publication Make it the Same shortlisted for a major international prize in literary studies.
Professor Jessica Palmer new PVC of Humanities
Tuesday, 22 December 2020 2:57pm
Leading a diverse and vibrant Division of Humanities is something Professor Jessica Palmer is looking forward to.
Otago appoints Acting Vice-Chancellor
Monday, 21 December 2020 3:17pm
Professor Helen Nicholson will take up the role of Acting Vice-Chancellor of the University of Otago in 2021.
Okay, Boomer book gets into swing of 60s
Friday, 18 December 2020 4:03pm
A title referring to a recent intergenerational spat is entirely appropriate for Dr Ian Chapman’s new book Okay, Boomer, which delves into life in 1960s New Zealand.
Grad journey guided by te reo's transformative power
Friday, 18 December 2020 4:07pm
A strong belief in the transformative power of te reo Māori for all in Aotearoa New Zealanders has guided Education graduand Will Flavell’s professional and educational journey.
Vale Professor Jim Flynn
Friday, 18 December 2020 2:35pm
Professor James Flynn FRSNZ, a University of Otago academic renowned for his intelligent approach to research and teaching, and his internationally recognised work on race and IQ, died on 11 December, aged 86.
Survey first step for voter study 60 years on
Thursday, 17 December 2020 11:02am
Politics researhers need respondents for the 2020 General Election Survey and would like 600 people – 300 from the Taieri electorate and 300 from the Dunedin electorate – to answer a 44-question survey.
Behind the scenes: graduand explores families on set
Tuesday, 15 December 2020 4:35pm
Graduand Helen Bollinger’s behind the scenes view of intergenerational film families in New Zealand cinema provided the inspiration for her Gender Studies master’s.
Otago announces 26 new Professors
Tuesday, 8 December 2020 4:25pm
Twenty-six University of Otago academics have been promoted to the position of professor this year.
Video: Professor Sonja Tiernan’s seminar for the Melbourne Irish Studies Seminar Series
Friday, 4 December 2020 12:49pm
Professor Sonja Tiernan’s seminar for the Melbourne Irish Studies Seminar Series Commemorating controversy: Women and the shaping of Modern Ireland is now available to watch online.
Law alumnus Latu looks forward to lecturing
Wednesday, 25 November 2020 12:23pm
Otago alumnus Alex Latu sees his recent appointment lecturing in the Faculty of Law as a continuation of a “very rewarding journey.”
Outstanding supervision recognised at OUSA Supervisor of the Year
Monday, 23 November 2020 11:40am
Two Māori academics who have helped postgraduate students flourish in their studies have been awarded the top awards at the OUSA Supervisor of the Year.
Marsden grant success for three Humanities projects
Friday, 20 November 2020 12:55am
Division of Humanities researchers Professor Claire Freeman (Geography), Dr Erica Newman (Te Tumu: School of Māori, Pacific and Indigenous Studies) and Dr Karen Greig (Archaeology) have secured Marsden funding for research projects.
New honorary fellow to enhance museum/iwi ties
Wednesday, 18 November 2020 9:37am
The University of Otago’s Archaeology programme has appointed Dr Gerard O’Regan as Honorary Senior Research Fellow; a move it says will greatly benefit research relationships with the Otago Museum and Ngāi Tahu.
Otago researchers secure $17.5m in Marsden funding
Wednesday, 11 November 2020 11:18am
University of Otago researchers have secured $17.5 million in Marsden funding for 30 world-class research projects.
Dunedin energy study shows worrying trends
Monday, 9 November 2020 4:37pm
More diesel use; less renewable energy; less energy efficiency; more carbon emissions – a new report from the University of Otago’s Centre for Sustainability identifies many worrying energy use trends in Dunedin.
Professor Tiernan interviewed by Keough-Naughton Institute for Irish Studies
Tuesday, 3 November 2020 12:35pm
Professor Tiernan inaugurates a new series for the Keough-Naughton Institute's website: Three Questions.
Thirteen universities, 24 hours, one important election
Thursday, 29 October 2020 10:27am
During the Academic Live Review on Wednesday, 4 November, Otago students and academics will join counterparts from 13 universities worldwide tol debate and analyse events as they unfold in the US presidential election.
Urgent need to decolonise urban planning: Otago researcher
Wednesday, 21 October 2020 10:02am
City planners need to embrace self-determination by Indigenous property developers and regard them as treaty partners with the authority to plan for themselves, an Otago researcher says.
Otago announces 2021 Arts Fellows
Monday, 19 October 2020 10:16am
The University of Otgao's 2021 Arts Fellows continue a strong tradition of celebrating diversity and making culture accessible to many.
University of Otago announces 2021 Arts Fellows
Friday, 16 October 2020 11:30am
Award-winning writers and artists tackling challenging social issues; composers creating soaring operas; dancers working with the community – the University of Otago’s 2021 Arts Fellows continue a strong tradition of celebrating diversity and making culture accessible to many.
New Māori Theology lecturer excited about next steps
Thursday, 15 October 2020 1:39pm
New Māori Theology lecturer Reverend Wayne Te Kaawa is excited about his next steps at Otago
Otago appoints new head of External Engagement
Wednesday, 14 October 2020 2:44pm
Leading historian Professor Tony Ballantyne, FRSNZ, has accepted a new role at the University of Otago as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (External Engagement), effective from next year.
Otago’s first female Vice-Chancellor to leave after a decade
Thursday, 8 October 2020 1:16pm
The University of Otago announced this afternoon that Professor Harlene Hayne is leaving her role as Vice-Chancellor in April 2021. Professor Hayne has been appointed to the role of Vice-Chancellor at Curtin University in Perth, Western Australia.
Making a world of difference
Thursday, 1 October 2020 4:33pm
University of Otago academics and alumnae have been named as finalists in the Women of Influence awards.
Otago experts analyse potential result of End of Life Choice referendum
Monday, 28 September 2020 10:12am
University of Otago researchers are providing a cautious prediction that the majority of voters will support the End of Life Choice Act 2019 in next month’s assisted dying referendum.
Shakespeare dodged plague, pupils' festival beats Covid
Friday, 25 September 2020 10:48pm
Between 26 September and 6 October 49 talented pupils from around New Zealand will attend the Shakespeare Globe Centre New Zealand National Shakespeare Schools Production (SGCNZ NSSP) in Dunedin to act, rehearse and learn.
Law forums to tackle tricky referenda issues
Wednesday, 23 September 2020 10:46am
Two events hosted by the University of Otago Faculty of Law on 29 and 30 September are aimed at making the key issues behind next month’s assisted dying and cannabis referenda accessible to the public.
Fulbright opens door for music composition graduate
Tuesday, 22 September 2020 8:39am
Last month Nathaniel Otley was awarded with a Fulbright General Graduate Award which he will take up at Eastman School of Music in Rochester.
Read Our Words: new poster highlights anti-racist reading list for all
Wednesday, 16 September 2020 9:33am
An inter-disciplinary group of Māori academics from the University of Otago have released the Read Our Words poster to encourage the public to engage with “the voices and experiences of Māori to help create an anti-racist Aotearoa New Zealand.”
Institute of Directors Emerging Director Award won by Law Dean
Tuesday, 15 September 2020 9:01am
Faculty of Law Dean Professor Jessica Palmer has been named the Otago Southland Branch Emerging Director for 2020.
Māori law lecturer joins Faculty of Law
Friday, 11 September 2020 9:30am
Mihiata Pirini (Tūwharetoa, Whakatōhea) has recently been appointed as a Māori lecturer in the Faculty of Law.
Otago research reveals pre-schoolers to be holistic city planners
Thursday, 10 September 2020 9:26am
New evidence shows pre-schoolers are some of the most intuitive city planners, yet their voices are largely disregarded in city design.
History professor first NZ humanities academic to join prestigious Academia Europaea
Wednesday, 9 September 2020 11:40am
History Professor Takashi Shogimen has become the first New Zealand-based humanities scholar to be invited to join the prestigious Academia Europaea.
Institute of Directors Emerging Director Award won by Faculty of Law Dean
Monday, 7 September 2020 11:52am
Faculty of Law Dean Professor Jessica Palmer has been named the Otago Southland Branch Emerging Director for 2020.
Otago student wins National Kaupapa Māori Moot competition
Wednesday, 2 September 2020 7:35pm
“Court-ready” was the consensus among the judges of this year’s National Kaupapa Māori Moot competition, before declaring Faculty of Law student Jacobi Kohu-Morris national winner.
Political education leads to political ambitions for Otago graduate
Wednesday, 2 September 2020 9:17am
Robert Griffith thinks his time at Otago will make him a better politician in the long run.
Changes to teaching needed to integrate Māori law into legal system
Thursday, 27 August 2020 4:59pm
Systemic change in the legal studies curriculum at our universities would be an important step towards integrating Māori law into Aotearoa New Zealand’s legal system, research released this week says.
First creative writing PhD student graduates
Thursday, 27 August 2020 8:46am
Dr Cullinane’s creative-practice thesis explores the interplay between memory and setting in the short fiction of US-based Irish writer Colum McCann.
App mapping Covid response takes top NASA award
Wednesday, 26 August 2020 5:29pm
University of Otago National Centre for Peace and Conflict Studies PhD candidate Nick Tobia was part of a team that won this year’s NASA Space Apps COVID-19 Challenge.
Art reflects life for first creative writing PhD
Tuesday, 25 August 2020 5:06pm
Otago's first creative writing PhD Marjella Cullinane says her research and writing, often explore place, the experience of being an immigrant and the history of the Irish in New Zealand.
Law PhD thesis emphasises children's voices in family disputes
Wednesday, 19 August 2020 4:02pm
Central-Otago barrister and mediator Deb Inder’s PhD on children’s participation in family court processes is aimed at improving legal policy and practice to ensure children have the opportunity to express their views in matters affecting them.
Honorary Fellow furthers Pacific engagement
Monday, 17 August 2020 12:04pm
The University of Otago’s Theology programme is excited about its future relationship with recently appointed Honorary Fellow Emeritus Professor the Reverend Dr Uili Feleterika Nokise, and the opportunities it will create for further engagement with the Pacific community.
Testing the metal: new chapter explores gender in Japanese music subcultures
Thursday, 13 August 2020 11:02am
A chapter on gender and musical subcultures in Japan by Media, Film and Communication lecturer Dr Rosemary Overell, recently published in the “The Routledge Companion to Gender and Japanese Culture", looks beyond the extreme metal scene to consider dynamics in other genres, including reggae and hardcore punk.
2020 Arts Fellows share creative insights
Tuesday, 11 August 2020 9:15pm
On 18 July the 2020 University of Otago Arts Fellows discussed their work with the public at the Dunedin Public Art Gallery.
Otago academics doing their bit for the public good
Tuesday, 11 August 2020 3:22pm
Not one, but two Otago academics were celebrated when the Critic and Conscience of Society Awards were presented at the University Council Chamber last Friday night.
Research team hopes Māori lives will be saved with new testing criteria for stomach cancer
Monday, 10 August 2020 11:01am
There are likely to be several hundred Māori unaware they are at high risk of an inherited form of stomach cancer and a New Zealand research team is hopeful updated international clinical practice guidelines they helped develop will encourage these people to be tested.
Vote 2020 asks political candidates how they’ll avoid predecessors’ mistakes
Friday, 7 August 2020 5:30pm
University of Otago Politics students will interview candidates all aged under 30 in the month leading up to September’s general election as part of the Vote 2020 interview series.
Alexander the Great is Dead! Meet Demetrius the Besieger
Thursday, 6 August 2020 10:33pm
Classics programme Associate Professor Pat Wheatley's new book, released by Oxford University Press in April, reconstructs the life of one of Alexander the Great’s most intriguing and enigmatic successors, Demetrius “The Besieger of Cities”.
Fulbright honours to eight University of Otago graduates
Thursday, 6 August 2020 3:15pm
Eight University of Otago graduates from across the University have been named Fulbright New Zealand award winners.
Politics public seminars to discuss post-COVID world
Wednesday, 5 August 2020 9:45pm
Politics Professor Philip Nel says public seminars on 12 and 19 August are aimed at making sense of the changes already linked to the COVID-19 pandemic, and those to come.
dtour literary app bigger, bilingual
Tuesday, 4 August 2020 10:29pm
dtour, a literary app that links remarkable writers and their stories to iconic sites in Dunedin, has doubled in size and translated many of its entries into te reo Māori.
Geography award for global contribution
Monday, 3 August 2020 4:41pm
School of Geography Head Professor Etienne Nel recently was recently nominated as the recipient of the 2020 Distinguished New Zealand Geographer Award and Medal for his sustained contribution to Geography and development.
Otago experts deemed ‘critic and conscience’ of society
Monday, 3 August 2020 11:53am
For the first time, the Gama Foundation has recognised two people at once for their efforts in being the ‘Critic and Conscience of Society’ – both University of Otago academic staff members.
The Sophia Charter launched to enhance student safety and well-being in North Dunedin
Thursday, 30 July 2020 9:09am
A multi-agency agreement, that includes the University of Otago, Police, Fire and Emergency New Zealand, Otago Property Investors Association, the Dunedin City Council (DCC) and the Otago University Students’ Association (OUSA), has led to the launch today of The Sophia Charter, designed to enhance the safety and well-being of the student community in North Dunedin.
In praise of crime fiction
Thursday, 30 July 2020 10:26am
An opinion article by former English student Jean Balchin celebrates ENGL243 Tartan Noir: Scottish Crime Fiction.
Great artists, but also scoundrels and cads
Wednesday, 29 July 2020 8:22pm
A new book Scoundrels, Cads, and Other Great Artists by College of Education Dean Professor Jeff Smith discusses the amazing artistic creations of nine famous artists alongside their often appalling personal behaviour.
Language, learning, people priorities for departing Te Tumu Dean
Thursday, 23 July 2020 12:02pm
Te Tumu Dean Professor Poia Rewi leaves Otago to become Tumu Whakarae (Chief Executive) of Te Mātāwai, a government agency created to assist hapū, iwi and communities in the important task of Māori-language revitalisation.
Children's Issue Centre celebrates 25 years
Wednesday, 22 July 2020 5:34pm
The University of Otago’s Children’s Issues Centre (CIC) celebrated its 25th anniversary this week.
Emotionally Charged - new book explores life, love and death in 1870s Italy
Tuesday, 21 July 2020 11:28am
History programme Associate Professor Mark Seymour's new book Emotional Arenas looks at love, life and death in 1870s Italy.
Virtual Open Day a first for Otago
Tuesday, 21 July 2020 2:03pm
For the first time the University of Otago is holding a Virtual Open Day for prospective students and their families to explore everything Otago has on offer, from home.
2020 creative writing competition opens today
Monday, 20 July 2020 9:39am
The University’s second annual creative writing competition for students and staff opens for entries today.
Otago's French connection celebrated on Bastille Day
Wednesday, 15 July 2020 10:46am
Otago’s strong French connections were also on display in the Arts Building on 14 July as Languages and Cultures staff and guests celebrated Bastille Day.
A tactical retreat? New RMA report takes top planning award
Thursday, 9 July 2020 10:27am
A ground-breaking report, co-authored by Otago Faculty of Law academic Dr Ben France-Hudson, focussing on reducing natural hazard and climate change risk under the Resource Management Act (RMA) was recently awarded the New Zealand Planning Institute’s John Mawson Award of Merit for 2020.
Online COVID-19 masterclass attracts thousands from around the world
Wednesday, 8 July 2020 11:40am
International conferences held entirely online may well be the future, if the just-completed University of Otago Global Health Institute’s (OGHI) online COVID-19 Masterclass is anything to go by.
New research examines links between religion and parental support from non-family members
Tuesday, 7 July 2020 3:12pm
New research suggests that this “multiplying” may be the result of the higher levels of support from non-family members that church-going women receive, and that these greater levels of support are also associated with positive developmental outcomes for children.
History Worth Repeating radio series worth replaying
Friday, 3 July 2020 5:48pm
The latest broadcasts in the "History Worth Repeating" can now be replayed
Otago campaign encourages students to speak up against sexual violence
Friday, 3 July 2020 12:45pm
A new Otago marketing campaign aims to give students the confidence to speak up for others and intervene in situations where inappropriate sexual behaviour is occurring or could be about to occur.
EQC grant unites earth and social sciences
Wednesday, 1 July 2020 9:34am
Southland could be New Zealand’s largest area of incomplete seismic fault information, but University of Otago researchers can now fill in the gaps after receiving a new EQC grant.
Housing issues close to home for new Politics academic
Tuesday, 30 June 2020 10:31pm
Although stranded half a world away new Politics programme lecturer Dr David Jenkins is excited about calling Otago home.
Otago expert fears increase in fetal alcohol disorder following lockdown
Friday, 26 June 2020 4:35pm
A University of Otago researcher fears the soaring rates of alcohol purchases during lockdown may result in more babies being born with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) next year.
University-backed Shakespeare Festival moves online to beat lockdown
Monday, 22 June 2020 11:48am
For several months about 2000 pupils in 300 groups nationwide have been filming scenes for the Shakespeare Globe Centre New Zealand’s University of Otago Sheilah Winn Shakespeare Festival regional heats.
POLS summer school papers offered in 2021
Monday, 22 June 2020 11:38am
There are two politics papers on offer with the 2021 Summer School.
Otago to hold August graduation ceremonies
Friday, 19 June 2020 11:45am
Otago’s graduation ceremonies are set to return in August, after COVID-19 disruptions caused the cancellation of its May ceremonies.
Books of my life by Liam McIlvanney
Friday, 19 June 2020 9:49am
Liam McIlvanney shares the stories of his best-loved books.
Moving to energy-efficient lighting more than just a bright idea
Monday, 15 June 2020 11:52am
A new University of Otago-led study shows moving to more energy-efficient lighting would help New Zealand achieve 100 per cent renewable electricity generation.
Introduction to Internet-based Learning – semester 2 paper
Monday, 15 June 2020 11:44am
EDUC435 is a semester 2 paper about how to make best use of the internet to support, enhance and deliver teaching and learning.
Pūtea Tautoko provides vital support for University of Otago students
Thursday, 11 June 2020 12:34pm
Just a few weeks since it was launched, the University of Otago student financial relief fund Pūtea Tautoko has provided NZD$659,156 in grants to support students facing financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
COVID-19 questions to be answered in Otago University masterclass
Thursday, 11 June 2020 11:23am
If you’ve got questions about COVID-19, an upcoming fortnight-long masterclass, running from June 22 until July 3, should be on your radar.
New research solves PNG archaeological mysteries
Tuesday, 9 June 2020 2:46pm
New research has ended decades-long speculation about what ancient Papuan New Guineans ate, and how they processed food, in the highlands of New Guinea several thousand years ago.
Arts provide solace and lighten lockdown
Monday, 8 June 2020 9:20pm
While the Covid-19 lockdown presented many creative challenges for 2019 Frances Hodgkins Arts Fellow Imogen Taylor, the experience underscored how the arts provide solace in times of crisis – both for the artist and the public.
Community-oriented club nets top sports award
Friday, 5 June 2020 4:12pm
Providing a “whānau away from home”, and a supportive environment for players from several codes has netted the South Pacific Rugby League and Sports Club a University of Otago Innovation in Sport Award.
Archaeological mysteries solved by new PNG research
Tuesday, 2 June 2020 2:50pm
New research which “fills in the blanks” on what ancient Papuan New Guineans ate, and how they processed food, has ended decades-long speculation on tools use and food stables in the highlands of New Guinea several thousand years ago.
Grant to fund writer's work on loss during lockdown
Tuesday, 26 May 2020 8:40am
Receiving a grant from Copyright Licencing New Zealand will help Dr Majella Cullinane complete Meantime, a work the Creative Writing Professional Practice Fellow describes as a very personal reflection on the realities of grieving during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Are you interested in getting a recognised professional social work qualification?
Tuesday, 26 May 2020 3:12pm
Join us for an online information session about the Master of Social and Community Work (Applied).
Online Theology seminar series popular during lockdown
Wednesday, 20 May 2020 10:35am
A switch to Zoom during the Covid-19 lockdown had no impact on the popularity of the Theology Programme’s “Faith Thinking” series.
Proud day for first Early Childhood Education master's graduates
Monday, 18 May 2020 4:22pm
While they couldn’t cross the stage on May 16, Leanne Walters and Karla Lawrie were proud to graduate in absentia to become the University of Otago’s first Master of Teaching and Learning Early Childhood Education graduates.
The future of Irish Studies in New Zealand
Friday, 15 May 2020 11:22am
Irish Studies was profiled in this month’s Otago alumni magazine
Trans-Tasman project to explore online law during lockdown
Thursday, 14 May 2020 10:54pm
The Remote Justice Stories trans-Tasman research team wants to analyse the stories of people who have participated in online legal hearings during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Life-saving help inspired career
Thursday, 14 May 2020 10:32am
Nikita Hames is a recent Social Work graduate, explains how life-saving help inspired her career.
Top award for Milton scholar
Wednesday, 13 May 2020 8:36pm
English and Linguistics Programme Honorary Fellow Dr John Hale recently receiving the Milton Society of America’s honoured scholar award for his “notable contributions to Milton scholarship.”
Motorised transport dominant mode for Dunedin pre-schoolers
Tuesday, 12 May 2020 9:53pm
Motorised transport dominant mode for Dunedin pre-schoolers new Geography research shows
E-TANGATA interview with Shayne Walker
Thursday, 7 May 2020 4:01pm
Read the E-Tangata interview with Shayne Walker who describes social work as an act of love.
Great Scott! New Zealand Wars book shortlisted for prestigious award.
Monday, 4 May 2020 10:20am
Sociology, Gender Studies and Criminology programme Associate Professor Annabel Cooper’s book Filming the Colonial Past: The New Zealand Wars on Screen has been shortlisted for the 2020 Ernest Scott Prize.
Gates Scholarship paves way to Cambridge PhD
Friday, 1 May 2020 5:12pm
Otago Law and History alumna Emma Gattey has received a prestigious Gates Cambridge Scholarship
Moving social work and social services online during lockdown
Tuesday, 28 April 2020 8:11pm
Online forums are helping social workers share ideas on how to provide services for families during the Covid-19 lockdown, University of Otago Social and Community Work Associate Professor Emily Keddell says.
Professor Tiernan's interview on research
Tuesday, 28 April 2020 11:22am
Professor Sonja Tiernan was interviewed about her past and current research projects.
University of Otago announces Pūtea Tautoko support fund for students
Friday, 24 April 2020 4:45pm
The University of Otago is committing $1.5 million as an initial investment to support Otago students facing financial hardship as a result of the COVID-19 global outbreak.
New animations demystify legal processes and terms
Wednesday, 22 April 2020 7:48pm
New short animated clips from the University of Otago Legal Issues Centre will help people navigate New Zealand's court processes.
Photo call for your 1960s images
Thursday, 16 April 2020 10:05pm
Otago Music academic Dr Ian Chapman needs your images for his forthcoming “delightfully interdisciplinary” mashup book about life in 1960s New Zealand.
Text analysis shows conceptual overlap as well as domain-specific differences in Christian and secular worldviews
Wednesday, 15 April 2020 3:27pm
We asked Christian and non-religious people to explain 54 phenomena, and use text analytics to quantify the conceptual overlap in their worldviews.
Easter Rising Commemoration for Irish Studies Chair
Thursday, 9 April 2020 11:23am
The Irish Embassy, New Zealand organised 'Mise Eire – I am Ireland': A virtual gathering – to commemorate the Easter Rising Anniversary.
PNG highland research redates Neolithic period
Tuesday, 7 April 2020 10:37am
Report co-author Professor Glenn Summerhayes (Archaeology) says new research published in 'Science Advances' on the emergence of agriculture in highland Papua New Guinea shows advancements often associated with a later Neolithic period occurred about 1000 years’ earlier than previously thought.
New Bowie book full of surprises
Friday, 3 April 2020 4:20pm
Dr Ian Chapman is an authority on David Bowie – he even modelled his recently-retired musical alter-ego Dr Glam on Ziggy Stardust – but research for his new book still led to a deeper appreciation of the late, great music icon.
Launch of new book on the history of civil marriage equality in Ireland
Friday, 3 April 2020 11:23am
In celebration of the publication of Prof Sonja Tiernan’s book, The History of Marriage Equality in Ireland.
Online services foster sense of community
Monday, 30 March 2020 8:25pm
With traditional church services suspended during the Covid-19 lockdown, Theology Programme academic Dr Katie Marcar is turning to technology to help people observe their faith and foster a sense of community.
Change to programme of public events – COVID-19
Tuesday, 17 March 2020 11:46am
In light of the current COVID-19 pandemic, we have taken the very difficult decision to cancel or at the very least postpone our current programme of public events.
Lightshow illuminates Victorian's plight
Friday, 13 March 2020 5:23pm
Several public events by visiting William Evans Fellow Professor Sally Shuttleworth explored important aspects of Victorian life on a grand scale this month.
Original waiata feature of building blessing
Friday, 13 March 2020 11:11am
The University’s new Music, Theatre and Performing Arts Centre was officially opened with a whakawaatea (blessing) and a waiata composed for the occasion.
Ten-point plan to increase access to free and low-cost legal services
Tuesday, 10 March 2020 4:55pm
A new research report from the University of Otago Legal Issues Centre (UOLIC) recommends ten steps to help New Zealand’s law profession deliver more free services to people caught in New Zealand’s widening ‘justice gap’.
Changes ahead for Professors Smith and Smith
Thursday, 5 March 2020 7:31pm
After working together for over a quarter of a century - sometimes even sharing an office - "husband and wife team" Professors Jeff and Lisa Smith are heading in different academic directions.
Alien help makes science homework fun
Monday, 2 March 2020 5:19pm
Professor Lisa Smith, a former Social Sciences Head and College of Education Dean, has teamed up with her PhD student Kimberly Arcand (Visualization Lead for NASA's Chandra Xray Observatory) to produce An Alien Helped Me With My Homework! - a book aimed at making science accessible and fun for younger readers.
World-leader in cognitive science of religion to give 2020 De Carle Distinguished Lectures
Thursday, 27 February 2020 3:53pm