Our communities
Our students come from a wide range cultures and backgrounds and we have great support services to help you make the most of your time at Otago. Explore our communities and find a home away from home.
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Māori Centre
Te Huka Mātauraka provides a nurturing environment and a range of academic, cultural, therapeutic and pastoral support.
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Pacific Islands Centre
We offer academic, pastoral and cultural support for all Pacific students, their families and communities.
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International students
Our International Student Advisers support international students to settle into life and study at Otago.
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Locals Collegiate Community
Locals is the biggest student community on campus, supporting first-year students who live at home, flat, or board.
A safe campus, a safe city
New Zealand ranks third in the Global Peace index which makes it one of the world's safest countries.
According to the latest New Zealand government Quality of Life Survey, Dunedin people rate the city as a safe and affordable place to live. Nearly all (92%) Dunedin people surveyed feel safe in the city centre during the day and a vast majority (81%) state they feel safe walking around their neighbourhood after dark.
All residential colleges and key facilities are within easy walking distance of the University and the city centre and our Campus Watch team is available 24/7 so that you can feel safe on our Dunedin campus and beyond.
Student support
University life can sometimes feel overwhelming. The good news is you don’t have to figure everything out on your own. We offer a range of support services to make your time here as stress-free and successful as possible.
Health and wellbeing
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Health Services
Student Health provides urgent and routine GP, nursing and mental health support in a safe, inclusive environment.
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Disability information and support
If you have a physical, psychological or learning disability, Disability Information and Support are here to help.
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Sexual violence support
Te Whare Tāwharau provides drop-in, support and prevention services for sexual violence within the campus community.
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OUSA Student Support Centre
OUSA’s Student Support Centre can help with anything life can throw at you, from queer support to wellbeing advice.
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Chaplains
Our chaplaincy team offers confidential, non-judgemental support, regardless of your beliefs or background.
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Childcare
We provide high quality early childhood education and care for children of students and staff.
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Physical wellbeing
Clear your head, meet new people or find a healthy study-life balance with Unipol Recreation.
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Student Wellbeing Hub
We offer a safe, welcoming space to relax, connect with others, and take part in activities that support your wellbeing.
Study support
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Course advice
Our course advisers are available to help you map out your study plans throughout your time at Otago.
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Student Academic Skills
We provide free academic learning programmes, workshops and online resources to help you up your study game.
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Libraries
Six campus libraries offer a huge range of resources and warm, comfortable study spaces.
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Career Development Centre
Starting to think about your future career? Explore our workshops, seminars and other resources.
Learn more about life at Otago
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Accommodation
Finding the right accommodation can make a real difference when it comes to settling in and feeling at home
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Get involved
At Otago there are lots of ways to stay active, connect with people and make a difference in your community
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Campus
Our main campus in Dunedin has been recognised as one of the most beautiful university campuses in the world