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University life isn't just about study. At Otago there are lots of ways to stay active, connect with people and make a difference in your community.

Clubs, societies and events

The Otago University Students' Association (OUSA) Clubs and Societies Centre is the hub for student-led interest groups on campus. OUSA also runs a diverse programme of concerts, quizzes, market days, exhibitions and other student events throughout the year.

Three young people stand talking and laughing in a grassy outdoor area, surrounded by a crowd of young people and banners on display.

Sport, fitness and recreation

Unipol Recreation is Otago's on-campus gym and sports facility for staff and students, offering weight training and cardio rooms, group fitness classes, outdoor rental and activities, and social sports programmes. Dunedin also has lots of sports clubs that welcome students, many with student branches affiliated with the Otago University Students' Association.

Two young women talking and doing floor exercises in a gym, with exercise equipment visible in the background

Volunteering and leadership

Our student-led Social Impact Studio helps students use their creativity, vision and insight to make a real difference. Opportunities include mentoring young people, helping in the community, contributing to wellbeing initiatives, empowering young learners through literacy programmes and taking part in global citizenship programmes.

A young man and a woman talking and smiling in a landscaped outdoor area

Sustainability

Sustainability at Otago Toitū te Taiao offers lots of opportunities for students to get involved in driving positive change for our environment. Te Oraka is our student-run thrift shop for recycled and locally-produced goods, and also serves as a hub for student events, including workshops, super swaps, repair cafés, clubs and night markets.

A bicycle parked in a bike rack in a paved area, with the University of Otago Clocktower visible in the background

Student exchange

The Otago Global Student Exchange Programme has partnerships with over 100 other institutions around the world, where Otago students can spend one or two semesters of their degree.

Overhead view of five young people sitting on grass together in a circle

OUSA

Your Otago University Students' Association

Sustainability Office

Get to know more about our mahi at Toitū te Taiao

Unipol Recreation

Your on-campus gym and sports facility

UniCrew

University of Otago students doing good for our community

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I found the student environment at Otago vibrant and full of life and energy. There’s a variety of activities facilitated by the University, OUSA, and the affiliated recreational and cultural clubs – I love the fact that it offers something for everyone. The university culture is very much present here and that is something that has made me feel like I am part of the student community.

Sean Teow

Bachelor of Arts

Learn more about life at Otago

Safety, support, community

Otago has a range of communities and services to make our students feel at home and supported throughout their studies.

Accommodation

Finding the right accommodation can make a real difference when it comes to settling in and feeling at home.

Campus

Our main campus in Dunedin has been recognised as one of the most beautiful university campuses in the world.

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