Will I get to know people?
Yes! Toroa has a reputation for being one of the friendliest places around. Living in one of our 24 units means you will share kitchen, living and bathroom facilities with four or six other residents (your flatmates). There will also be opportunities to meet others during our social events throughout the year.
Who lives at Toroa?
In 2025 Toroa College will be home to international, postgraduate and mature students in a flatting (shared housing) environment, with the added support and services of a University residential college.
Can I bring my car or my bike?
Yes. We have some car parks on site; please call us to confirm the weekly costs. We also have an outdoor bike rack where residents can park and lock their bikes.
Are there quiet hours?
As Toroa College is a shared residential environment, we encourage our residents to be mindful of noise at all times. We expect our residents to be respectful of the community.
Is it ok for my friends or family to visit me?
Absolutely. Please check with your flatmates. Refer to the Toroa College handbook for guest policy.
Toroa College handbook (PDF)
Is alcohol-free accommodation available?
Yes.
What if I need help with my study?
Stewart, the Tautiaki Piki (College Deputy Warden), is available to talk with you about your study needs. As we are a small community, we get to know our residents well, so we can help with a referral to the on-campus support that best suits your needs.
What if I get sick?
It is important that all international students understand the terms and conditions of their medical insurance and know who and/or where to visit when medical attention is required. We have compiled the following list of important medical contacts:
- Student Health during the week – 0800 479 821
Student Health website - Dunedin Urgent Doctors and Accident Centre is located at 18 Filleul Street and is open seven days a week, from 8am to 10pm – (03) 479 2900
- Emergency Department at Dunedin Hospital – (03) 474 0999
We strongly encourage you to engage with Student Health for non-emegency services (nurse, doctor, counsellor, psychologist, psychiatrist) in the first instance, to help you get back on track again.
What should I bring?
You need to bring:
- Personal items
- Toiletries
- Clothing
- Towels and handtowels
- Cleaning products
What furnishings are provided?
In your room we provide:
- King single bed
- Desk
- Wardrobe
- Drawers
- Shelves
- Wall heater
- Study and bedside light
- Electrical multibox
In your unit we provide:
- Fridge-freezer
- microwave
- oven
- crockery
- cutlery
- toaster
- electric jug
- pots and other cooking equipment
- lounge furniture
- vacuum cleaner
The college also has a communal laundry with washing machines and dryers.
Who can I talk with about payments and College fees?
Administrative support, including information about payments and rent, is provided through the University's Student Accommodation Centre.
Contact the Student Accommodation Centre
How secure is Toroa?
We take resident security very seriously. We have put measures in place to help us have a secure environment – we have security cameras and coded access gates as well as electronic gates and main entrance door that require student id to gain access.
How will I know where to go or what to do?
All Toroa staff are committed to helping residents settle in with as little stress as possible. To help you settle in we offer campus tours, information on how to complete registration and course approval, as well as assistance to gain access to the University of Otago network and Blackboard systems.
What should I do when I arrive in Dunedin?
It is important you let us know your expected arrival time and what flight you will be on.
When you arrive in Dunedin, please go directly to Toroa College at 8 Regent Road, North Dunedin to collect your keys.
If you are arriving outside of office hours, please go to the Campus Watch office, located in the St David Complex on campus. Campus Watch will then come and give you your key at the office.
St David Complex – Google Maps
From there you will be able to move directly into your accommodation.
If you are coming from Dunedin airport, you can pre-book a shuttle:
Super Shuttle airport transfer service
Please advise the shuttle driver to wait for you whilst you collect your key, if you are collecting it from the Campus Watch office, so the shuttle can then take you directly to Toroa.
Please also refer to the pre-arrival information on the International Office website:
Prepare for Otago – University of Otago International office
How close is Toroa to the main University campus?
We are only a short stroll away from campus. The St David complex, which includes the University's largest lecture theatre, is only two blocks from Toroa.
What is the postal address if people want to write or send me care packages?
University of Otago
Toroa College
[your name]
8 Regent Road
Dunedin 9016
New Zealand