Supporting Otago

Harraways steps in to help out students in need

When the University of Otago reached out to Harraways and their CEO Henry Hawkins to support the student community at a time of need, they didn't hesitate to jump in and help.

Last week, the historic Kiwi company stepped in to donate thousands of porridge oat sachets for the care packs being prepared by Otago University Students' Association and the University for students in self-isolation due to COVID-19.

“We wanted to help out a valued, local partner organisation and its key constituents,” says Head of Marketing at Harraways, Peter Cox.

“These apple, sultana and cinnamon flavoured quick-cook rolled oats are sourced from local Southland farms. They are a good source of fibre and they are a source of protein for folks needing to eat well and get healthy. This is a great example of locals helping locals!” says Peter.

Harraways and the University have a long association and are close partners in a number of initiatives. “Being another homegrown, Dunedin organisation the two entities collaborate regularly,” says Peter.

This includes working with the Department of Food Science on product research and development, PhD study and undergraduate projects. As part of its 150th anniversary celebrations, Harraways established the Harraways 1867 Visiting Professorship at the University (currently on hold due to COVID-19), to run for five years.

The company also works on projects with the Department of Human Nutrition and on market research and development with the Department of Marketing in the Otago Business School (OBS). It contributes to student studies and projects and also receives strategic advice from OBS teaching staff.

“Harraway & Sons Limited and the University of Otago are two iconic organisations within the greater Dunedin area. Both have been in existence for over 150 years and over this time the two organisations have formed a strong working bond across multi faculties and projects. All endeavour has been aimed at benefitting the next generation of Kiwis!” says Peter.

Otago's Director of Development and Alumni Relations Shelagh Murray says the University is very grateful for Harraways' generosity and practical support at this time of need. “It's a great expression of our partnership over many decades and we are very appreciative of their continuing interest and care for Otago students.”