Get the support you need while studying
Over 850 students with Pacific heritage – both New Zealand and Island-born – currently study at the University of Otago. The University welcomes the diversity Pacific people bring to Otago and assists you through a range of networks and support systems.
There is strong support for Pacific students from all four academic divisions, the student services division and the International Office. Make the most of the wonderful assistance and advice available across campus to help you succeed in your studies. Don't be afraid to ask for help and contact the services that can best help you during your time at Otago.
Join our Pacific Islands family
Get the advice and support you need through the Pacific Islands Centre. The Centre exists solely for supporting Pacific students, their families and communities. Let us help to make your journey at Otago smooth and enjoyable and assist in your pursuit of knowledge.
History of the Centre
The Pacific Islands Centre was established in 2001 at 5 Leithbank, and officially opened on 26 June 2003 by Dr Phil Meade as Acting Vice-Chancellor. The keynote speaker was the Hon. Tuiatua Tupua Tamasese, Tamaaiga and paramount chief of Samoa.
The Centre was moved to its current location in 2022, where facilities include staff offices and two tutorial rooms (named after Pacific leaders who trail-blazed the way for Pacific Islanders here at Otago). There is the Sir Tom Davis Common Room, and the Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara Seminar Room, a kitchen and the welcoming front veranda from the street. The Centre currently has 7 permanent full time staff.
The Centre is located at 520 Castle Street North. Supplementary tutorials are held weekly during semesters and tutorial rooms are available for student use.
The reopening of the Centre at 520 Castle Street North was officially completed on 22 July 2022.
University of Otago Policies, frameworks and protocols
- University of Otago Policy Database
- Pacific Strategic Framework 2022-2030 (PDF)
- Pacific Research Protocol (PDF)