Faculty research
At the University of Otago Faculty of Law, research is at the heart of everything we do. Our scholars are nationally and internationally recognised for their contributions to legal thought, policy development, and interdisciplinary inquiry. We are committed to producing research that not only advances academic understanding but also addresses the pressing legal and social challenges of our time.
Our research spans a wide range of fields—from environmental and health law to human rights, criminal justice, and emerging technologies. We foster a vibrant intellectual community where staff and students collaborate across disciplines, engage with global networks, and contribute to meaningful public debate.
Whether through groundbreaking publications, influential policy work, or innovative symposia, the Faculty of Law is shaping the future of law in Aotearoa New Zealand and beyond.
View our collection of Faculty research
Research Centres
The University of Otago Faculty of Law is home to several specialised research centres that foster interdisciplinary collaboration and contribute to legal scholarship, policy development, and public engagement.
- New Zealand Law Foundation Centre for Law and Policy in Emerging Technologies
This centre explores the legal, ethical, and policy implications of new and emerging technologies, including biotechnology, artificial intelligence, and digital innovation. - Children’s Issues Centre
A multidisciplinary hub focused on the rights, wellbeing, and legal protections of children, the Centre supports research that informs child-centred policy and practice. - Otago Centre for Law and Society
This centre promotes socio-legal research, examining how law interacts with social structures, cultural practices, and everyday life in Aotearoa New Zealand and beyond. - Civil Justice Centre
Dedicated to improving access to justice and the effectiveness of civil legal processes, this centre supports research on dispute resolution, court systems, and legal reform.
Kōpū
The Faculty also houses the Kōpū unit, which is co-led by Māori staff. The unit is helping to reimagine law in Aotearoa by positioning mātauranga and tikanga at the heart of teaching and research.
Named by Justice Sir Joseph Williams (Ngāti Pūkenga, Waitaha, Tapuika) and formed in 2022, Kōpū is a Māori interdisciplinary research practice that brings together the Faculty's Māori academics in a shared research kaupapa. Kōpū is co-led by Distinguished Professor Jacinta Ruru MNZM FRSNZ (Raukawa, Ngāti Ranginui), Lecturer Mihiata Pirini (Ngāti Tūwharetoa, Whakatōhea), Senior Lecturer Metiria Stanton Turei (Ati Haunui a Pāpārangi, Ngāti Kahungunu ki Wairarapa, Rangitane) and Honorary Research Fellow Jeanette Wikaira (Ngāti Pūkenga, Ngāti Tamatera, Ngapuhi).
Working with Te Rōpū Whai Pūtake the Māori Law Students' Association and colleagues within Te Kaupeka Tātai Ture and beyond, Kōpū's research is currently anchored in:
- Interdisciplinary indigenous legal scholarship focused on decolonising law, theory and knowledge
- Researching how to structurally influence and reform Aotearoa to become compliant with te Tiriti o Waitangi
- A national research project to indigenise the LLB
- Te Takarangi: a project to curate and celebrate the wealth of Māori-published non-fiction writing spanning more than 200 years
Kōpū's research partnerships include Ngā Pae o te Māramatanga, Royal Society Te Apārangi, New Zealand's Biological Heritage National Science Challenge, and the Michael and Suzanne Borrin Foundation.
Otago Law Review
The Otago Law Review is the flagship academic journal of the University of Otago Faculty of Law. Published since 1965, it provides a platform for high-quality legal scholarship, featuring articles, commentary, and reviews from leading academics, practitioners, and emerging voices in the legal field. The Review reflects the Faculty’s commitment to critical inquiry and contributes to legal discourse in Aotearoa New Zealand and internationally.
Find out more about the Otago Law Review
New Zealand Legal Information Institute (NZLii)
The New Zealand Legal Information Institute (NZLii) provides free and open access to New Zealand legal materials, including legislation, court decisions, and tribunal rulings. Hosted by the University of Otago Faculty of Law, NZLii supports legal research, education, and public understanding by making legal information widely accessible. It is a vital resource for students, academics, practitioners, and anyone interested in New Zealand law.
Visit the New Zealand Legal Information Institute website
Student research
At the University of Otago Faculty of Law, student research is a valued and visible part of our academic community. Our students contribute original and insightful work across a range of platforms, showcasing the depth and diversity of emerging legal scholarship.
- OUR Archive (2022–): The University’s open-access digital repository includes a growing collection of student theses and dissertations, preserving and sharing the scholarly achievements of our law students with a global audience.
View student theses and dissertations on OUR Archive - Otago Yearbook of Legal Research (2006–2021): This annual publication features outstanding student research, offering a platform for in-depth analysis on contemporary legal issues.
View the Otago Yearbook of Legal Research - New Zealand Law Students’ Journal: A national, student-led publication that highlights the voices of future legal professionals, with contributions from Otago students regularly featured.
Visit the New Zealand Law Students' Journal website
These avenues reflect our commitment to nurturing critical thinking, academic excellence, and public engagement among the next generation of legal scholars.