Archive for 2023
Events
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Trade Aid Christmas pop up shop (November 21 2023)
Head along to our pop-up shop in The Hub.
Fair Trade Christmas decorations, crafts, coffee, tea, and NZ made chocolate on offer.
Plus free chocolate tastings!
Cash only.
Trade Aid Dunedin is a social enterprise. We operate as a charitable trust, and any surplus we make goes into education about fair trade.
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Pasifika End of Year Celebrations! (November 10 2023)
To celebrate the end of the academic year we would like to invite you all to our Pasifika End of Year Celebration. It will be an afternoon of games, challenges and a reflection of this year’s trials and triumphs.
We hope to see you all there ?
Please email Pasifika@op.ac.nz if you would like to come along!
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Applied Science Student Showcase (November 7 2023)
The Institute of Sport, Exercise and Health present our 2023 Student Project Showcase.
Final year Bachelor of Applied Science (Exercise, Sport and Health) leaners share their community project findings and experiences. 24 ākonga are presenting across a diverse range of topics, from massage therapy to performance analysis to community wellbeing. Click here to see the event schedule.
We welcome interested kaimahi and members of the public to drop into any sessions.
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Rangitoto Island Hike (November 17 2023)
Enjoy the fresh air and beautiful scenery of Rangitoto with us as we celebrate spring with an excursion to the island. Hurry, places are extremely limited! Follow this link to sign up.
Friday 17 November
All day
Meet at Auckland Ferry Terminal, $20 (usually $43)
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Get Interview Ready with Danielle Harrison (November 5 2023)
Do you want to practice and improve your interview skills? Then don't miss the chance to get interview ready with Danielle Harrison, our in-house People and Development Advisor.
Write to OPAIC Employability to block 15 minutes with Danielle on the 16th of November. Seats are limited, so hurry if you do not want to miss this opportunity.Thursday 16 November
12 pm–1 pm
Level 1, OPAIC
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Diwali Festival Week (November 10 2023)
Always a highlight of the OPAIC social calendar, join us to celebrate this festival of light.
Friday, 10 November
12 pm
Level 1, OPAIC
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Get Career Guidance (November 8 2023)
Join us to gain valuable insights to make informed decisions about your career path with confidence. Learn how to articulate your personal qualities, leverage your transferrable skill capital, and align your values with your career choices.
Wednesday 8 November
12.10 pm–12.50 pm
Room 205, Level 2, OPAIC
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SITE 23 (November 3 2023)
SITE is the annual showcase of graduate work from the Dunedin School of Art. Painting, ceramics, jewellery, sculpture and more will be on display. Meet the future big names in contemporary New Zealand art.
This year, the level 6 Diploma in Photography students will be showcasing their work in room P216.
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Information Technology Showcase (November 3 2023)
Come see the innovative projects that our I.T. ākonga have produced this year.
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Engineering Showcase (November 2 2023)
Featuring posters and prototypes from Civil, Electrical and Mechanical Engineering diploma and degree final year projects.
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detail (November 3 2023)
Celebrate the achievements of our architecture ākonga. See models, blueprints and other highlights from our innovative graduates.
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My Place in This Place Exhibition (November 1 2023)
Come along to our Tōku Tūnga Ki Tēnei Wāhi – My Place in This Place Exhibition to celebrate the diversity, talent and passion in our community.
FREE food provided by our Culinary Arts ākonga
Live performances and artworks expressing the unique and individual personal stories of our ākonga and kaimahi
FREE advice and resources from a bunch of community organisations about how to keep yourself mentally well and healthy
Click on the calendar icon below to add this to your Outlook calendar!
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iNDx Exhibition - free drawing sessions (October 20 2023)
In support of the iNDx Autistic Artist Exhibition and our neurodiverse community, Tūhura Otago Museum invites you to do some after-hours drawing in the galleries. Enjoy the calm late-night atmosphere and find inspiration among the displays—you could start with the amazing artwork in the iNDx exhibition.
All our galleries will be open, as well as Tūhura and the Tropical Forest.
Drawing materials will be provided.
Free – Koha appreciated
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iNDx Exhibition - Ask Us Anything - All Things Autism (October 20 2023)
Questions about autism rarely have one-size-fits-all answers, so it's important to hear a range of perspectives.
You'll have that opportunity at the Ask Us Anything – All Things Autism panel session, where a number of Autistic people will be taking questions and sharing their respective insights.
Questions can be submitted in advance and read anonymously, or asked in person on the night.
While you're visiting, don’t forget to check out the amazing artwork our iNDx exhibition has to offer!
This event is free :)
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iNDx Exhibition - discussion panel session (October 20 2023)
The iNDx Autistic Artist Exhibition is a celebration of neurodivergence that centres on Autistic people expressing and advocating for themselves. Each exceptional piece is a window into someone's sensory experience.
Making art, in any form, builds connection, shares diverse perspectives, and enhances relationships. It is also a fantastic way to communicate our thoughts, feelings, and needs.
Join a panel of professionals in discussing the role art can play in empowering Autistic people to speak for themselves, and hear about the mahi iNDx has been doing to further this important cause.
Free!
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Travel Talk with Contiki (October 11 2023)
Aged 18 - 35?
Get Ready for Adventure with Contiki!Discounts and a $200 Prezzy Card to be WON!
Calling all thrill-seekers, wanderlusters, and adventure enthusiasts! Are you ready to embark on the journey of a lifetime? You won't want to miss this electrifying online presentation on everything Contiki, hosted by Zest4Travel!
Why should you be there? Here's why students and young professionals NEED to join the Contiki Presentation: Discover your dream destination! Contiki offers tours to some of the most incredible places on Earth! From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the beer halls of Munich, this presentation will take you on a virtual voyage to help you find your next travel obsession.Learn travel tips and tricks, with in depth knowledge about the best places to eat, sleep, and explore, ensuring you get the most out of your adventure.Get ready to be inspired by incredible stories and jaw-dropping photos from past Contiki travelers. Witness the magic of Contiki adventures through their lenses and get a sneak peek of what your journey could look like.Exclusive discounts and offers to all attendees, available only to those who attend this online event. Imagine saving big on your next unforgettable adventure when you book through Zest4Travel.Prizes! Who doesn't love free stuff? By attending you go into the draw to win a Prezzy card to spend on what ever your heart desires.Be inspired by those who have a deep love for travel. Their energy and passion for exploration are contagious!Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to ignite your wanderlust and kick start your next adventure. The world is waiting for you, and with Zest4Travel and Contiki we are here to make your travel dreams come true!Mark your calendars, invite your friends, tell your family and get ready for an evening filled with excitement and inspiration. See you at the Contiki Presentation!Those who attend will go in the draw to win a $200 Prezzy Card, which will be drawn Monday 16 October and prize-winner will be notified 18 October.
Exclusive discounts apply for all those who attend and book a Contiki tour through Zest4Travel by
Friday 27 October, within 10 days of the event.
NOTE: Please be aware that all prizes and discounts are for those residing in New Zealand only. -
Student Ambassador Meeting (October 5 2023)
Student Ambassadors play an important role in supporting and representing their fellow students. It’s also a great way to make connections with learners from other courses.
If you would like to join our team, please follow this link.
Thursday 19 October
12 pm
Room 700, OPAIC
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How to Make an Effective CV (October 5 2023)
Join us for this in-person workshop and gain the skills to craft a NZ-style CV that gets you to the interview door. Understand the purpose and key components of an NZ-style CV and gain access to the resources we have curated for you to build a stellar CV.
Wednesday 11 October
12.10 pm - 12.50 pm
Room 205, Level 2, OPAIC
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Auckland Public Library Tour (September 28 2023)
We will meet on campus and apply for library cards online, before heading to the library to pick up the cards and take a tour.
Auckland public libraries have an extensive collection of books, magazines, eCollections, movies, and eLearning materials. Not to mention free Wi-Fi and a comfortable and quiet place to study!
Friday 13 October
10.30am
Room 301, OPAIC (FREE)
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Make your own Pride Pin! (September 14 2023)
Get your arts'n'crafts on with Pride!
Locke from the Art School will be leading a badge-making session in the Hub at lunchtime. All materials will be supplied.
Rainbow community members and allies, both ākonga and kaimahi, are welcome to come along and join in the fun.
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Massages in The Hub (September 14 2023)
Feeling stressed? Got aches and pains or tight muscles?
Pop along to the Hub between 11am-2pm any day this week for a free relaxation massage to celebrate Massage Awareness Week!
We have massage chairs and beds available.
No booking required, all welcome.
We can help with stress, relaxation, aches and pains, and tight muscles.
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Ways to Wellbeing Treasure Hunt (September 14 2023)
10 small cards (like the 5 below), will be hidden around The Hub during Mental Health Awareness Week. On those cards there is a single word handwritten on the bottom left.
1. Find all ten cards.
2. Unscramble the ten-word sentence that they make (get a friend or tutor to help if you need it).
3. Email the unscrambled hauora/wellbeing-related sentence to stacey.harris@op.ac.nz
Correct answers will be entered in the draw to win a fabulous hauora pamper pack – including a free treatment at the student hair salon, a voucher for a facial at the student beauty salon AND a free massage at the student clinic.
Competition closes at 5.00pm on Friday 22 September.
Winner/s will be advised the following week.
One entry per person. All welcome to enter!
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Free Unipol activities (September 14 2023)
If the weather is nice, Unipol will bring along some outdoor activities that you can get involved in. If the weather isn’t great, we’ll head inside for some indoors options!
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Free BBQ (September 14 2023)
Come and grab a free feed courtesy of OPSA!
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Mental Health Awareness Week - free speaker events (September 14 2023)
This year's theme for Mental Health Awareness Week is Five Ways, Five Days, continuing the Five Ways to Wellbeing practices.
We've sorted a speaker for each day of MHAW to represent the topic for the day.
Mon 18 Sept
Take notice / Me Aro Tonu
Speaker – Julian O’Hagan (Physiotherapist and Bradcliff Breathing Instructor – Breathing Better)
Hear about the benefits to mental health of breathing well and learn some tips to help you achieve this.
An introduction to Te Pae Ora
A new online hauora (wellbeing) hub created by Te Pūkenga. Stacey Harris will walk us through this new resource.
Tues 19 Sept
Give / Tukua
Speaker – Volunteer South
Hear about the important volunteer work that Volunteer South do and learn how you can get involved.
Wed 20 Sept
Be active / Me Kori Tonu
Speaker – Christine MacDonell (Unipol)
Hear all about what’s on at Unipol and why it’s important to stay active.
Thu 21 Sept
Connect / Me Whakawhanaunga
Speaker – Steve Downey (OP Chaplain)
Learn about the importance of connecting with self, others, and place, and being present with those we love.
Fri 22 Sept
Keep learning / Me Ako Tonu
Speaker – Paul Smith (Artsenta)
Artsenta is an award-winning art studio for people who are accessing support for a mental health or addiction issue. Hear all about the services they provide and how they can be accessed.
An introduction to Te Pae Ora
A new online hauora (wellbeing) hub created by Te Pūkenga. Stacey Harris will walk us through this new resource.
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Open mic - it's your time to shine! (September 14 2023)
Open mic – it’s your time to shine!
If you have a talent or skill you’d like to share, we’d love to have you involved. Bring your own instrument, or MP3 backing track. We’ll provide the microphone and the stage.
Register in advance by emailing stacey.harris@op.ac.nz or just show up and register on the day!
We'll also have a range of wellbeing activities on the tables in The Hub.
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Our Market Day is back! (September 7 2023)
Our year one, Bachelor of Culinary Arts students, are excited to invite you to their last pop-up Market Day for the year. Grab fresh home-baked breads, baking, salads and lunch items prepared fresh for you that day.
The students are really looking forward to showcasing their baking and cooking skills and have worked hard to develop a varied product list for you to stock up for the week or to grab some lunch for the day!
The stall will be open from 11.30am - 12.30pm (or until sold out).
Save the date! Click the icon below right to add this into your calendar.
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Join us for a mushroom kingdom extravaganza! (September 7 2023)
Tuarangi Gaming Club is throwing an epic Super Mario Party gaming event.
Thursday, 7 September.
Level 1 at 12pm for a shell-spinning good time!
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Hāngī (September 13 2023)
It doesn’t get better than this - what a way to celebrate Te Wiki o te reo Māori!
Come along and share some kai with us – all welcome.
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Poi-making Workshop (September 11 2023)
Eden Cafe's best secret, Kararaina Redmond is back to host another workshop centred around the art of Crafting Poi to celebrate Te Wiki o Te Reo Māori. This time she will share a narrative about poi and include te reo māori in her workshop. Ka mau kē i te wehi!!
This is always a popular event so please email tepunakaowheo@op.ac.nz to let them know you’re coming so they can ensure there’s enough material.
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2023 Annual Peace Lecture (September 4 2023)
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Movie Night for Tongan Language Week (September 1 2023)
Movie Synopsis:
Maka, a Tongan superfan, will do whatever it takes to get tickets to the Tonga vs France Rugby World Cup game – even if it means promising to deliver a brass band for the pre-match entertainment. Only problem is, the band doesn’t exist and Maka has four weeks to make one. Inspired by a true story.
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OVERCOOKED! (August 29 2023)
Lunchtime 12:00 pm-1:00 pm
Thursday 31 August
OPAIC LEVEL 1
Get ready to sizzle and unwind with our Overcooked Lunchtime Showdown! Dive into some Overcooked madness at our gaming event. Let the culinary chaos begin.
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Movember SpeakEasy Online Workshop (August 18 2023)
Everyone goes through tough times.
It’s not always easy to know how to support your friends through the difficult moments. As part of the lead-up to Movember, a series of workshops are being offered to help normalise our everyday struggles and encourage us to be more open in dealing with tough situations.
The Movember SpeakEasy workshops provide practical tools to help you be there for your crew. Designed with men in mind but valuable for all people, Movember SpeakEasy workshops build skills to help strengthen social connections, helping friends and family to support each other. These workshops are all about fostering meaningful relationships and are conducted in collaboration with The Man Cave.
These workshops equip you with the skills to support those you care about while emphasising self-care and seeking help when needed.
Click here to register for a workshop.
Check out the Movember SpeakEasy website.
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Procrastinators' Club (August 1 2023)
Do you avoid getting started on assignments? Or find yourself doing everything but the assignment that’s due in a couple of days?
If this is you, come join the Procrastinators’ Club.
- Bring an assignment with you to get started on.
- Learn some strategies for managing your procrastination.
- This is a no-judgment space.
Some of these sessions are in-person and some are online.
Click on the calendar icon below to add the relevant session(s) directly into your Outlook Calendar.
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Fortnightly Rainbow BYO Lunch (August 1 2023)
Bring your own lunch and head along to eat/talk in a supportive, safe and inclusive environment.
Allies are also very welcome so feel free to bring a friend.
These lunches are for ākonga (learners) and kaimahi (staff).
Click on the calendar icon below to add these events into your Outlook calendar.
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Fair Trade korero and chocolate tasting (August 1 2023)
Come and find out more about Fair Trade and try some free tastings of the award-winning Trade Aid chocolate.
Any questions, please contact Jo.Kirkwood@op.ac.nz
- Pop up store (July 31 2023)
- Pop up breakfast (July 31 2023)
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Occupational Therapy info evening (July 31 2023)
Learn about our study options in occupational therapy
Chat to our lecturers and ask any questions you have
Gain insights about what it's like to work in this field from professionals in Dunedin - we've got two Occupational Therapists speaking about their career paths and practice experience
Hear our second year learners' experiences during their studies to see if occupational therapy is for you.
Save the date and come along! No registration is required.
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Cook Islands Language Week Celebration - Otago Museum (July 28 2023)
Join Te Vaka Cook Islands of Dunedin for a celebration of Cook Islands Language Week at Tūhura Otago Museum.
Share in the community's rich cultural traditions with dancing, singing, and music. There will be performances and demonstrations throughout the day, and collection items from the Cook Islands will be displayed on level one.
This special occasion is open to all who are keen to celebrate.
Atrium Level 1
10am – Pure akameitaki ki te Atua (Blessing)
10am – ʻEi katu (head garland) workshop with Ma'taria and Teina, accompanied by string band sounds from Te Vaka
11am – Ura Fitness class with Kheelan & Sakaria. BYO pāreu, water bottle, gym towelHutton Theatre
1pm – Drumming history and drumming session with Te Vaka drummers
2pm – Te Vaka performanceFREE ENTRY
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Map the System Competition using Systems Thinking (July 27 2023)
In this public seminar Professor Elinor Bray-Collins (Humber, Toronto) will discuss Map the System - a cross-country collaborative competition using Systems Thinking.
With Professor Caro McCaw and Machiko Niimi (DESIS Otago, Otago Polytechnic – Te Pūkenga)
Come and learn about how Global Polytechnic Alliance Partners from Canada, Denmark and New Zealand work together to support student teams to develop research projects for an international competition, Map the System.
“Map the System is transforming the way we teach problem solving within higher education and is equipping a new generation of leaders with the systems thinking mindset needed to re-shape our world.” https://mapthesystem.sbs.ox.ac.uk/home
Elinor Bray-Collins is Professor of Politics at Humber College in Toronto in the faculty of Liberal Arts and Sciences. Elinor has worked with students, staff, NGOs and youth from around the world to voice their visions for equality, sustainability and systems change.
Public Seminar - staff, students and visitors are welcome to attend.
Click on the icon below to add this to your calendar.
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Come out for lunch (July 26 2023)
As a Rainbow Tick organisation, we are proud to provide a safe, welcoming and inclusive place for people of diverse gender, identity and sexual orientation.
Hosted by Proud@OP and OPSA Rainbow, this lunch is all about celebrating Rainbow Diversity and Inclusion – come along and grab some hot soup, buns and bacon butties. A perfect way to warm up on a winter’s day!
All ākonga (learners) and kaimahi (staff) are welcome.
Click on the calendar icon below to add this event to your calendar.
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Ei katu making (July 26 2023)
Ei Katu making
Come along and celebrate Cook Island Language Week with the Otago Cook Islands Students Association.
Learn about the language, share a free meal, and make your very own Ei Katu (flower garland) to take home.
Everyone is welcome!
Please RSVP to pasifika@op.ac.nz by Tuesday 1 August (12pm) - we need to know how much material to buy for the flower garlands :)
Add this event to your calendar by clicking the calendar icon below.
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Trades employment expo (July 25 2023)
Come and learn about employment opportunities in Carpentry, Electrical and Plumbing.
With free bacon butties and spot prizes, this will be a fun and informative way of meeting potential employers and hearing all about the work they do.
We’ve got some great organisations coming along and they’re looking forward to meeting you.
Click the icon below right to add this to your calendar!
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Employment expo (July 13 2023)
- Fantastic opportunity for you to network and explore potential employment avenues, including internships, new graduate opportunities, and casual, part-time or full-time work
- With over 35 businesses attending, this promises to be an engaging and informative experience
- These businesses are eager to meet and connect with you, providing valuable insights into various roles and offering advice about future study and career pathways
- Free and no need to register – just drop in when you can
- Add this event to your calendar by clicking on the calendar icon below!
Businesses attending:
- Go with Tourism
- Tradestaff
- Workbridge
- MSD
- Connected
- Workforce Central
- Platinum
- Firebrand
- CPB Contractors Ltd.
- Trade Assist
- Business South
- NZ Defence Force
- YES
- Fulton Hogan
- Crew Consulting
- APM
- Naylor Love
- WellSouth
- KiwiRail
- Blab
- Onestaff
- Idea Services
- Mainfreight
- Downer
- Farra Engineering
- DCC - JobDUN
- Start Up
- Moore Markhams (Accounting)
- Mercy Hospital
- Remarkable People
- Silverfern Farms
- C3 (Portwork)
- Te Whatu Ora and New Hospital Build
- Corrections
- Port Otago
- Polson Higgs
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Ten-Pin Bowling (July 12 2023)
Join us for an evening of ten-pin bowling just across the street from OPAIC. Most welcome for new students.
Two games for only $15 (usually $30).
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Warm welcome event (July 12 2023)
Haere Mai, Welcome!
Come along to our Warm Welcome event and set yourself up for a successful semester! With free dumplings, music, competitions and giveaways, this will be a great event!
Find out more about our Student Success team and all of the support available to you:
- Accessibility/Neurodiversity Support
- Career Services
- Counselling
- Chaplains
- International Support
- Learning Advice
- Māori Support
- Online/distance Support
- OPSA
- OPSA Rainbow Support
- Pasifika Support
- Peer Tutors
- Refugee Support
- Student Advisors
- Wellbeing Support.
And access info about:
- OUSA Queer Support
- Studylink
- Tenancy Services
- OUSA (Otago University Students’ Association) Clubs & Socs
- UniPol (gym and recreation area)
- Study Abroad opportunities
Our IT Support desk is also located in The Hub so bring your device along if you’re having any issues and they can help you out.
For those new to campus, The Hub is the main social area for our ākonga / students. Check Dunedin Campus map here. There’s a café, loads of tables and seating, our Customer Services desk, the Otago Polytechnic Students’ Association (OPSA) desk/social space, and all of our support services (including IT Support, Neurodiversity/Accessibility Support, Career Services, Counselling, Chaplains, Learning Advice, Māori Support, Pasifika Support, Refugee-background Support, Queer Support and Wellbeing Support).
Event details
Mon 17 July, The Hub
10.30am-1.00pm
- Expo, music, info & advice
12noon
- Mihi whakatau for all ākonga (traditional Māori welcome ceremony)
12.10pm
- Free dumplings
If you can’t make it, check out our Student Support website. It’s packed full of handy contact details, info and resources. And your student intranet, Kāpehu, is a great place to keep an eye on for news, events and notices during your study. It also has links to further support and services so is worth having a look at.
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Whetu Whakamaumaharatanga (July 5 2023)
Pōhutukawa is one of the stars of Matariki.
Pōhutukawa helps us remember those who have passed since the last rising of Matariki.
It is at this time that people want to call out the names of loved ones who have died in the past year.
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Hāngī in The Hub (July 5 2023)
Let's celebrate Matariki together!
Join our whānau to share kai, reflect on the past, celebrate the present, and embrace the future.
Invite your classmates to come along with you.
All learners and staff invited
Mānawatia a Matariki
This event is organised by Te Punaka Ōwheo for all ākonga and kaimahi to celebrate Matariki. -
Peering through the haze: Let’s talk about vaping (June 19 2023)
Hosted by Aspire Aotearoa, come along to our afternoon tea and kōrero about the impact of vaping on our community.
Free
Adults and teens welcome.
For more info and to register, head to https://scifest.org.nz/programme/peering-through-the-haze-lets.
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Rainbow Community Connection Evening (June 13 2023)
Hosted by Certificate in Health and Wellbeing students.
Come along for an evening of music, kai and pride. Hear from and connect with rainbow workers in Dunedin!
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Free Diversity Works Event 31 May: Reducing Workplace Harm (May 29 2023)
Diversity Session: Breaking the Cycle of Workplace Harm
A national survey of New Zealand’s workforce found that 30 per cent of respondents have experienced workplace sexual harassment and 39 per cent have experienced racial harassment in their workplace in the past five years. Furthermore, 40 per cent of workers reported being bullied at some point in their working life. These figures were reportedly higher for certain groups, including women, Māori, Pasifika, Asian, bisexual, disabled and young workers.
Employees often don’t feel safe to report harmful incidents and organisations continue to struggle to address harmful behaviour. So what shifts need to occur to improve workplace safety for all employees?
Diversity Sessions are interactive online conversations where we explore inclusion issues impacting our organisations and our people.
Event Details:
Date: Wednesday 31 May 2023
Time: 2pm-3pm
Venue: Online
Investment: Members FreeRegister here using OP username and password.
Username: otagopolytech
Password: VXiaZP1dJAdd your name and email in the Attendees information fields.
Recordings of previous Diversity Sessions are also available. Sign in using the OP username and password.
More information about Diversity Works NZ and OP Membership
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Calling all Māori ākonga - come to our quiz night! (May 12 2023)
Want some free kai? Want to win a few prizes?
Then come along to the Te Punaka Ōwheo quiz night.
Get a team of 4-6 people together, come along and have some fun, and win some prizes.
Kai will be provided.
For more info or to register your team, email tepunakaowheo@op.ac.nz
Check out all of the services and support available at Te Punaka Ōwheo here >
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Muriwai Beach and Wine Tasting Tour - Thursday, 26 May (May 10 2023)
Join us and the Action Tours team to visit some popular West Auckland wineries on the way to Muriwai Beach, famous for its black volcanic iron-rich sands. Bring your own lunch or buy something from the café at Muriwai Beach.
The tour includes transport to Muriwai Beach and Gannet Colony, and tastings at two wineries.
This tour is valued at $50, but we are offering a special price of $25 to AIC students! Spaces are strictly limited, so sign up here today.
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Ngā reo o VSA: Voices of Volunteer Service Abroad (May 9 2023)
Come along and hear four VSA (Volunteer Service Abroad) volunteers share their stories and experiences.
There'll also be information about the Univols University Graduate programme.
Free event but please register your interest here: Ngā Reo o VSA - Voices of VSA - Dunedin - Eventfinda
Light refreshments and drinks provided.
For more info, please email info@vsa.org.nz
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A Connect 4 Challenge (May 9 2023)
Have fun and get prizes with our Connect 4 Challenge!
Tuesday 16 May
12noon
Near the OPSA office in The Hub
See how quickly you can put all the discs in the holder using two hands. Winner will be the person with the fastest time!
Great prizes for first three places.
Register on the day of the event!
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Quiz Night Fundraiser - help a young adult get a disability assistance dog! (May 9 2023)
Support one of our students as they aim to raise funds for a Disability Assistance dog.
Come along for a rainbow-themed quiz night!
Tuesday 6 June
6.00pm
The Hub, Forth Street, Otago Polytechnic Dunedin Campus
Open to everyone! Invite your friends, whānau, flatmates, colleagues and classmates.
$5 entry per person (at the door)
Teams of 2-6 (you can join other individuals or small teams to make a team if you are coming by yourself)
There will also be a raffle, bake sale/cafe, and prizes to be won.
All money earned will go towards funding a Disability Assistance dog for a young adult in the community.
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Join Sport Otago at their Pink Ribbon Breakfast (May 9 2023)
Sport Otago is taking part in the Pink Ribbon Breakfast campaign this year to help support Breast Cancer Foundation NZ's vital work.
The money we raise will be used to fund research projects and medical grants to help improve survivorship, as well as support patients and their families during treatment and recovery.
Tickets are $30 for adults and $20 for children under 12, which includes breakfast and a coffee/hot drink.
To purchase tickets for yourself and your whānau, follow this link
If you are unable to attend, or wish to donate more, you can do this on our donation and information page
We are also running a raffle for a 1-night retreat (Monday-Thursday) at Cascade Creek Retreat for two guests.
This includes full exclusive use of the Retreat, including the two outdoor baths, complimentary continental breakfast, luxury robes & linen, and marshmallows to roast over the open fire.
The raffle tickets are $5, and you can buy as many as you want. Raffle tickets can be purchased here on iTICKET or in person on the dayAny queries, please do not hesitate to be in touch with Sean Powlesland (Otago University Placement Student) spowlesland@sportotago.co.nz. Or Sport Otago Events Lead, Sophie Russell, srussell@sportotago.co.nz.
We look forward to seeing you there dressed in pink!
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Experience Virtual Mi-Room with Kansai University (May 3 2023)
Kansai University in Japan is offering a virtual interaction space where students from other countries can join with students from Kansai University to meet and communicate while moving around the space using your own avatar.
Virtual Mi-Room is recommended for those learners who:
- Want to chat with other international students from all over the world.
- want to study abroad, but need to save money and time
- want to go to Mi-Room but haven't had the chance yet.
There is an opening event on Thursday May 11th starting at 3.30pm (JST) which is 6.30pm NZ time.
Interested? Sign up before May 7th at https://forms.office.com/r/GKRa4ZUiwx
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Calling all soccer buffs to kick off the cup! (May 3 2023)
Calling all soccer buffs to kick off the cup
Become the Polytechnic school champions!
Tuesday 23 May12 noon - 1.00pmHockey Turf (Harbour Terrace)
You need to:- Register your team at the OPSA office by 1.00pm on Friday 19 May
- Choose a team name from one of the countries competing in the Women's World Cup in Dunedin
- Ensure all team members wear the same uniform/t-shirt
- Ensure all team members wear clean turf/gym shoes
Rules:- NO goalkeepers
- NO offsides
- NO throw-ins - just kick-ins from side or goal end
- NO foul language
- NO pushing/tripping or handballs
- All games played across the turf - 2 games at a time, 5 min each half (approx.)
- All teams to play each other - small goals.
The team with the most goals after all games played wins!Great team prizes.BBQ provided.Organise your cheer squad. -
Free privacy week webinars (May 2 2023)
Privacy Week 2023
May 8-14
The theme this year is 'Privacy rights in the digital age'.
Join any of the 20 free webinars covering topics like biometrics, AI, machine learning, digital identity, parenting and social media, farming, and online dating.
The Office of the Privacy Commissioner marks Privacy Week each year to promote privacy awareness, inform people of their rights under the Privacy Act, and help educate agencies about their responsibilities.
Visit the Events page for more information about each event and to register.
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Tertiary Open Days (April 27 2023)
Got a friend or family member who's thinking of coming to Poly?
Tertiary Open Days is one of our biggest events of the year when we welcome hundreds of potential learners and their whānau on to campus.
This two-day event is a great chance for people who are thinking about coming to the Polytechnic to talk to our lecturers, explore our campus and check out student work.
There's loads of friendly staff to show people around, answer questions and give them a taste of life at Otago Polytechnic | Te Pūkenga.
So, spread the word!
Sunday 7 May is a slightly smaller day with staff on campus who can chat about programmes we offer.
Monday 8 May is a bigger day with lots of activities happening on campus. This includes taster workshops, presentations from our lecturers, and more. It's a great chance to tour Te Pā Tauira – our hall of residence.
Download the full timetable and booklet
Otago Polytechnic | Te Pūkenga timetable and map
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Monthly metta (July 4 2023)
Metta is the buddhist practice of loving kindness meditation.
Through the practice of metta we develop the capacity to have compassion for others and for ourselves. The Core Meditation metta process is based on traditional buddhist practices but also incorporates influences from other traditions.
Entry is by donation if you can afford it.
If you can’t come and sit with us anyway.
Register here
News
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PS Otago Foodbank are on the hunt for superstars! (November 23 2023)
PS Otago Foodbank are on the hunt for superstars to help them in the lead up to Christmas.
Two-hour slots on weekdays, any day between 4-22 December
Ideally two people at a time.
Involves counting, sorting, and organising Christmas donations.
PS Otago Foodbank is on Moray Place next to First Church.
Please email jasmin.enright@psotago.org.nz and let her know the day and time you are coming. Please do try to stick to two people as the space is quite small.
If you have multiple times and days you can help, let Jasmin know, and she can work with you.
- Monday to Friday 8.00am-5.00pm
- Minimum two hours
- Comfortable clothes and footwear.
Thanking you all!
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Design Ākonga Market! (November 10 2023)
Pop down to the Hub Atrium on Thursday 16 November for the Side Hustle Market our design ākonga are running!
For the past four weeks, our second years in communication, fashion and product design have worked together to design and establish innovative and sustainably considered 'side hustles'. There are all sorts of brilliant ideas and a range of carefully designed and made goods for sale (just in time for the festive season!).
Come along, check it out, and maybe even score something special for yourself or a loved one.
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Plant Sale (October 27 2023)
Save the Date - our annual plant sale is coming soon!
Our students have been working hard, and we are very excited to showcase their work. There will be a range of beautiful natives, annuals, perennials, shrubs and edibles for sale on the day.
Saturday 18 November
9.30am - 1.30 pm
L Block (100 Anzac Avenue)
Watch this space for more information.
Happy Gardening!
Lisa Short
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Pet Free Homestay Family Needed from Mid October (August 24 2023)
We are looking for a pet free homestay family for a Japanese Learner who has been in Dunedin since April studying Engineering. This female student is very independent but has allergies to cats and dogs so is a little harder to place. She is currently living with another host family, who are only able to host until mid October. This student requires Homestay from mid October until March 11 2024.
This student is 18 but falls under our ICT agreement for host families:
- no teenage boys in the house without a sister also living in the home
- students can only stay overnight in the home of another OP host family
Homestay families are paid $336 per week to host.
If you are interested in hosting, please contact us at Homestay@op.ac.nz
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Support Daffodil Day - Wednesday 23 August (August 16 2023)
School of Business ākonga and kaimahi are supporting the Cancer Society and their annual Daffodil Day appeal on Wednesday 23 August in The Hub.
We appreciate your support - feel free to come and have a chat with the team.
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Hot water off this afternoon - H & G Blocks (August 10 2023)
Due to repair work replacing 3 electric elements in the hot water cylinder, the hot water will be off in H & G Blocks from 1pm today and for the rest of the day.
We apologise for any inconvenience during this maintenance.
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Bledisloe Cup - road closures Sat 5 Aug (August 1 2023)
On Sat 5 August, the Bledisloe Cup is being played at the Forsyth Barr Stadium.
Traffic Management Ltd will be putting road closures in place from 11.30am.
The map they have supplied below shows which roads will be closed.
Map showing road closures around stadium >
We apologise for any inconvenience this might cause.
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Great job opportunity! (July 25 2023)
Make an impact helping the residents of Te Pā Tauira, our Student Village, during their time staying with us.
This part-time role (15 hours per week) is a fixed term position from 31 January – 1 December 2024. The hours are mainly evenings and weekends (with weekends off being rostered evenly throughout the team).
You’ll be paid $24.84 per hour and applications close on 19 August so get in quick.
More about the role
We’re looking to hire a community-minded, self-managing and resilient person.
As a Residential Assistant, you will be a leader in our student community by:
- providing pastoral support to first year tertiary students
- organising and running events for the community
- monitoring and informing senior staff about community developments, and
- undertaking general administration and reporting tasks.
If you’re successful in getting this job, you’d be able to live on-site at the Student Village or off-site at your own accommodation.
For more info
To check out the position description, the kind of things we’re looking for in our successful candidate, a little more about what we offer and a position description, visit this page. You can find a downloadable PDF of the position description at the bottom of this page.
To apply
For specific information, please email renee.stringer@op.ac.nz or phone 0800 762 786 and ask to speak to Renee.
To apply, please visit this page and click the blue apply button. You’ll need to register to apply for this vacancy or login if you’ve already created an account.
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Free yoga session - Wed 21 June! (June 19 2023)
It’s international yoga day on Weds 21 June and the Student Success team want to invite you to a free yoga session.
5.00pm
G201/203
Led by Adrienne Roy from Dunedin Hot Yoga Studio
The session will be a Yin style (un-heated) session. It will focus on stretching, calming and reducing stressful feelings, focusing inward and allowing your body and mind to relax and let go. Especially targeted for dealing with end of semester and other stress. Give yourself an hour to relax.
If you have your own yoga mat, bring it along – otherwise a decent sized towel will do the trick.
All students and staff welcome.
Please RSVP to stacey.harris@op.ac.nz to make sure you get a space. You can just turn up, but if the room is full, you may miss out.
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Vacancy - Barista role (fixed-term, 20 hours per week) (June 19 2023)
Come and make great coffee with us!
We’ve got a fab opening in our catering operations team here on campus!
We’re looking for a passionate and experienced barista for our catering operations including Eden and Hīnaka cafés. This role will mainly focus on barista duties but also include general front-of-house and café.
- Fixed term until November 2023.
- Part-time, 20 hours per week (rostered Monday – Friday).
- Mostly barista duties but also include general FOH and café duties.
Click here for more information and a position description.
Apply by 5.00pm, 25 June 2023
Please contact Mark Lane, 0800 762 786 or mark.lane@op.ac.nz
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Vacancy - Baker role (20 hours per week) (June 19 2023)
Love cooking delicious and nutritious food for people? Come and work with us!
We’ve got a permanent, part-time role available (20 hours per week) in our catering operations team here on campus.
We’re looking for someone who can cook delicious and nutritious food for our onsite cafés, student accommodation catering and catering for our offsite and onsite events as required.
You will work in a team, planning, preparing, cooking and cleaning. The usual hours of work will be rostered over the weekdays, Monday – Friday, with occasional weekend mahi.
Click here for more information and a position description
Apply by 5.00pm, Wednesday 21 June
Please contact Vanya Thurston, 0800 762 786 or vanya.thurston@op.ac.nz
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Food Design students help Dunedin Night Shelter (June 15 2023)
We're very proud of these Food & Beverage students who committed to creating a load of ready-to-eat meals for our Dunedin Night Shelter. Check out this pic - they are extremely pleased with their efforts in the kitchen and happy they have been able to deliver the food for such a worthy cause
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Hangi fundraiser - Pick up 16th June @ 1pm (June 2 2023)
Please note change of date - pick up will not be 9th June, it will be 16th instead!
Our New Zealand Certificate in Electrical Engineering students are fundraising for their trip to the Manapōuri Hydro Station.
Hangi fundraiser
$15 each (the works, 3 meats, vegetables, stuffing)
$10 (vegetarian option)
Pick up 16 June @ 1pm, Poho
To order please email: alliedtrades@op.ac.nz
Payment to the team at Allied Trades, bottom floor of A Block
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Electronic Door access affected (May 24 2023)
Kia ora koutou
There is a software upgrade scheduled for Monday evening (29th May) which will affect the electronic doors for a short time between 8.30pm and 8.40pm. You may not be able to enter a locked door at that time. This should only last a few minutes if you are able to wait.
As usual, please don't hesitate to ring the emergency after hours number 474 7290 (this is advised on most main entry doors) should you have further access or building issues.
Thanks.
Campus Services Department
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Free bike repair workshop in The Hub (May 22 2023)
Need help fixing your bike?
Bring it to our FREE workshop in The Hub.
- Tuesday 30 May
- 11.00am-1.00pm
A bike is a great way to get around. No parking hassles, it keeps up your fitness and doesn't hurt the planet with any emissions!
But, they often cost a lot.
For those that can't really afford a new bike, you can check out the Community Bike Workshops at Valley Cycle Workshop (11 Allen Street, North East Valley, open Tues 3.30pm-5.30pm and Sat 9.30am-12.30pm) and those at the Crooked Spoke (111 Moray Place, open Wed 4.00pm-6.00pm and Fridays 4.00pm-8.00pm).
They have a range of donated, pre-loved adults' and children's bikes.
The friendly, volunteer bike mechanics will help you with repairs and tools to get one of these bikes ready to ride!
A koha is appreciated.
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Bike rack relocation due to landscaping (stage 1) (May 17 2023)
Access to the Hub via the ramp from the quad will be removed this week to allow Stage 1 landscaping work to commence outside He Toki Kai Te Rika (the new Trades Training building). This is likely to be for approx. 9 weeks and will give us occupancy access for semester 2 as planned.
We are still working on an interim solution for accessibility once this first stage is complete, and until the final landscape is complete which may well be into 2023. Accessibility access will still be available through the Forth St entrance.
We will need to remove the bike racks that are outside F Block facing the quad this week to enable Naylor Love to erect fencing and commence the work asap. Please can you use alternative bike racks tomorrow to allow us to move the racks while empty.
The bike racks will be relocated to the Quad area but are not under cover. There are alternative undercover bike racks outside the entrance to the Hub on Union St, and under the G Block archway.
Please see a map here showing the location of the fencing.
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AKO espresso café on Harbour Terrace open (May 15 2023)
Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday for three weeks (16 May - 1 June, 9.00am - 2.00pm).
Home baked sweet and savoury treats prepared fresh each day.
$3 coffee - buy 4 and get the 5th one free!
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Note to self - Market Day 25 May (May 15 2023)
Our year one, Bachelor of Culinary Arts ākonga, are excitedly preparing for Market Day this week.
Thursday 25 May from 10.00am.
Home-baked breads, doughnuts, cakes, tarts and café baking.
Our ākonga are really looking forward to showcasing their baking skills and have worked hard to develop a varied product list for you.
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OPSA Interim President (May 3 2023)
Kia Ora,
my name is Sarah McArthur, I am the OPSA Interim President for the remainder of 2023.
I am a first year Bachelor of Social Services student. I have been a student here since 2021 and on the OPSA Advisory Board since 2022. I look forward to meeting everyone.
Warm regards
Sarah McArthur
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Manaaki lunch dining tomorrow, Wednesday 3rd May (May 2 2023)
We have had a few seats become available for tomorrow's lunch (Wed 3rd May) in Manaaki - $25pp for two courses (includes complimentary tea or espresso beverage of your choice.)
Menu subject to change depending on produce availability. Email bookings@op.ac.nz (with dietaries if applicable)
Red leaf lunch menu 3/4 May - Booking times 11.45am, 12noon, 12.15pm, 12.30pm.
Mains
Warm hot smoked salmon on bubble and squeak with a poached egg and horseradish cream (gluten free)
Sweet potato and a black bean burger, with nacho crumb, slaw, beetroot, kimchi and melted cheese with lemon and honey dressing and fries (vegetarian/contains nuts)
Crumbed beef schnitzel on a creamy mash with sauerkraut, beans, and beef jus
Desserts
Date pudding with hot salted caramel sauce and vanilla ice cream
Banoffee pie topped with caramelised banana with a sprinkling of peanut candy
White chocolate mousse, spiced apples in a brandy snap and raspberry coulis
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Beauty Therapy Treatments (May 2 2023)
It is evidence of treatment time again for the NZ Diploma in Beauty Therapy students.
The first one is Electrical body treatments. The sessions are Wednesday this week, and Tuesday and Wednesday for the next two weeks. you can have multiple treatments as there are 5 different treatments to have, and you will be helping our students immensely with their assessment.
The sessions are morning 11am-12.30 and afternoon 1.30 - 3pm.
The cost is $10 per session.
If you have any medical conditions just check with me first to ensure you can have all of the treatments. ? Safety first, always!
We have on offer:
Vacuum suction - fantastic for increasing our lymphatic and circulatory system, reduce puffiness, aids with cellulite reduction, improves skin texture and colour, and great for dry skin as we use an oil as the medium and it helps in removing the build up of dead skin cells.
G5 - this is a mechanical form of massage and fantastic for getting into the tight muscles and relieving muscle tension, again it increases our lymphatic and circulatory systems, aids in cellulite reduction, and removal of dead cells.
Infra red - this is a pre treatment and is essentially a heat lamp with added benefits. Very soothing and warming. Great for muscle tension, pain relief and increasing our circulatory system.
Faradic - this is a passive for of exercise where your muscles contract via electrodes which stimulate muscle to contract involuntarily. Great for firming and toning. So, like going to the gym without the sweat. ?
Microcurrent - this recontours the muscles and works at a deeper level. Fantastic for lifting and toning.
Each session you will receive two machines and will take approximately 1 to 1 ½ hours depending on the treatments. The students must do all the different types of machines in the 5 sessions available.
Please let me know if you would like to book in for any or all of the sessions. ? Email jennie.jenkinson@op.ac.nz
Thank you in advance.
The Beauty Therapy Team
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First for Otago Polytechnic as academic completes Masters entirely in te reo Māori (December 13 2021)
Shaun Tahau has created history at Otago Polytechnic, successfully completing a Master of Professional Practice – entirely in te reo Māori.
It’s been a significant year for Shaun -- in August, he was appointed to an exciting new role, Tumuaki Whakawhanake/Director Māori Capability at Otago Polytechnic.
Shaun, who completed his MPP in early December, will graduate in March 2022 with distinction.
He started the journey towards his MPP in 2018 when, as Kaiārahi for the Kaitohutohu Office at Otago Polytechnic, he began the development of the Rautaki Reo Māori (Otago Polytechnic’s Māori Language Strategy).
“This was an opportunity for me to develop my understanding in a strategic space, but to also share my passion and lifelong mātauranga (knowledge) pertaining to te reo Māori me ōna tikanga (the Māori language and customs),” Shaun reflects.
The development of the Rautaki Reo Māori took just over six months, and involved consulting with many rōpū (groups) from Kōmiti Kāwanataka, Kotahi Mano Kaika and Otago Polytechnic’s Executive Leadership Team (ELT), before being approved by the Kōmiti Kawanataka and ELT in December of 2018.
As he researched and developed the Rautaki Reo Māori, Shaun realised there were no examples of this mahi being done in the tertiary sector. Therefore, he saw this as an opportunity to enrol in the Master of Professional Practise (MPP), with a focus on Organisational Leadership and Change and using his experience in developing the Rautaki Reo Māori.
As he began the process of enrolling in the MPP and reflected on the significance of the Rautaki Reo Māori, Shaun decided that if he was going to focus on the strategy, it would only make sense to do it all in te reo Māori. At that point, no one else had completed their MPP in te reo Māori.
This posed many challenges for Shaun as he navigated being a learner and needing support, but his role developing policies and processes to support Māori learners helped overcome these barriers.
“The journey has been a great learning opportunity for me, understanding what Māori learners can face if they request to submit their assessments in te reo Māori,” Shaun says.
“Te Reo Māori is an official language of Aotearoa New Zealand, and has been since 1987. As an organisation, we should support staff and learners to continue the appropriate use of te reo Māori in all domains.”
Shaun describes his appointment in August as Tumuaki Whakawhanake/Director Māori Capability at Otago Polytechnic as “both an honour and a privilege”.
Dr Megan Gibbons, Chief Executive Otago Polytechnic: “Shaun brings a wealth of experience into the role, including knowledge about the organisation, that will be instrumental in working with Colleges and Service Areas to assist them to build capability. The more we know and can do, the better the outcomes for our tauira will be. I am thrilled to have Shaun in this role.”
Working within the Office of the Kaitohutohu (KTO), Shaun’s role includes overseeing Otago Polytechnic’s Māori Workforce Strategy and Action Plan and continuing to embed and integrate the Māori Strategic Framework across Colleges, Schools and Service Area. Shaun is also the lead contact for Te Pūkenga in relation to Te Pae Tawhiti, Te Tiriti o Waitangi Excellence Framework for Te Pūkenga, which focuses on Māori staff capability and development.
Also, as Tumuaki Whakawhanake, Shaun will continue to lead the implementation of Otago Polytechnic’s Te Rautaki Reo Māori/Māori Language Strategy – a first for our sector – and also be the Polytechnic’s key contact for matters concerning Māori staff capability and development in relation to Te Pae Tawhiti, Te Tiriti o Waitangi Excellence Framework for Te Pūkenga.
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Introducing our new Online Student Representative (November 9 2021)
Our new Online Student Representative Kashmira More is working towards her Post Graduate Certificate in Applied Management while working as an HR Analyst with an IT firm in India.
Kashmira already has a Bachelor of Commerce and has spent the past seven years working for a range of organisations.
Kashmira says she comes from a very humble family where compassion and respect for others are a part of family traditions.
“Personal and professional life experiences have taught me to 'just go with the flow' and be optimistic about life,” she says.
Outside of study and work, she likes exploring new places and taking stunning photographs of landscapes. She also likes reading novels and listening to music but struggles to find the time to nurture all of her interests. In addition to this, she enjoys trying out different cuisines and visiting different restaurants.
Kashmira says the student representative platform has provided her with an opportunity to bond with students, make some amazing friends, and extend her support to OPAIC, which has been an enjoyable experience.
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Artist wins International Award for Clay Animation Film (October 22 2021)
CONGRATULATIONS to Artist and lecturer at the Dunedin School of Art, Kiri Mitchell who has won bronze at the International Women Over 50 Film Festival, winning an award in the animation category.See the Link at the ODT for MORE! -
Staff Forum video & presentation (October 18 2021)
Otago Polytechnic Chief Executive Megan Gibbons addressed a Staff Forum on the proposed Te Pūkenga Operating Model.
Watch the video here
To view the proposed Operating Model presentation Megan delivered click here.
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Otago Polytechnic introducing wine industry programme (September 23 2021)
Otago Polytechnic’s proven nose for innovation will see its Cromwell Campus roll out a programme specialising in commercial wine cellar operations early next year.
Based in the heart of one of the most-renowned wine-making regions of New Zealand, the New Zealand Certificate in Cellar Operations (Level-3) is designed for people either working in a winery at an entry level, or wanting to enter the wine industry.
Part of the Government’s Targeted Training and Apprenticeship Fund (TTAF), which covers tuition fees and student levies, the fulltime programme begins on 17 January 2020 and runs for 17 weeks.
Although they will be based at the Central Otago Campus, learners will complete off-site and workplace learning, enabling them to gain important practical skills within a real-world setting. Work placements will take place in a variety of sustainably-accredited wineries.
Otago Polytechnic is an accredited member of Sustainable Winegrowing New Zealand. All the lecturers within this programme are recognised as sustainable practitioners, incorporating best practice in their teaching.
Initially offered by Competenz in June 2015, the Level 3 Cellar Operations programme was further developed by Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT). Otago Polytechnic has been collaborating with NMIT since 2020, with the aim of delivering the programme to support the Central Otago wine industry.
Otago Polytechnic Cellar Operations Lecturer Dr Stephanie Lambert notes the New Zealand wine industry supports more than 16,500 full-time jobs.
“It can be difficult to recruit the necessary skilled people locally, so it is great that the industry is supporting this initiative to train and upskill in our region.
“The cellar operations course will give a broad teaching in New Zealand wine varieties, sensory evaluation and practical application, along with health and safety and team dynamics.
“The wine industry is innovative, collaborative and allows for many career pathways. In my 25 years in the industry, from research, cellar and lab operations to winemaking, I have been exposed to many different operations, both here in New Zealand and around the world.
“I am excited to use my extensive winemaking experience to teach and guide interested people to start or enhance their careers in this rewarding and varied industry.”
The New Zealand Certificate in Cellar Operations (Level-3) programme covers:
- the wine industry, wine-making processes, plant and equipment
- legislation, regulatory, food safety and workplace and personal health and safety requirements
- how to work effectively in a team when transferring wine to meet production requirements
- how to complete routine cellar operation tasks
- NZ wine varieties, styles and growing regions
- Basic sensory evaluation of wine
- Processes used to “finish” wines (stabilisation, fining, filtration, blending, maturation, barrels, packaging, bottling)
More information here
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Dunedin School of Art Foundation Fundraising Art Auction (May 6 2021)
20 MAY, 6-9PM, DUNEDIN SCHOOL OF ART, P BLOCK, 17 RIEGO STREET, DUNEDIN.
An exclusive fundraising art auction to support the DSA Artist Scholarships Programme
A night to enjoy – Art, and the best of local food and wine
The Art Auction will include selected works by celebrated NZ artists:
Madeleine Child
Scott Eady
Graham Fletcher
Sam Foley
Sara Hughes
Simon Kaan
Gregor Kregar
Pete Wheeler
Jenna PackerAll auction proceeds will be used for scholarships to support students and artist-in-residence workshops.
VIEWING PRIOR TO AUCTION
All lots will be exhibited in the DSA Gallery, P Block, 17 Riego Street, from 10 am to 5 pm, 17 – 20 May.See catalogue PDF for conditions of sale.
Please click on link to download
DSA Art Auction and Exhibition
Schedule for the Evening
20 May 2021 -
Domestic enrolments strong (March 17 2021)
Otago Polytechnic is experiencing strong domestic enrolments – resulting in the institution posting a more than $1 million surplus.
Otago Polytechnic Chief Executive Dr Megan Gibbons says the increase in domestic students — up more than 20% on last year — is “fantastic”.
There has been a 20.6% increase in domestic enrolments, an increase of 760 domestic equivalent full-time students (EFTS).
Despite a drop of 40.3% in international enrolments (193 EFTS), Otago Polytechnic has experienced an overall 13.6% increase in enrolments for 2021 compared with the same time last year.
“The strong rise is across a broad range of programmes and qualification levels. Most programme areas have full cohorts for Semester 1,” Dr Gibbons says.
“The demand ranges across all of our areas, including various Construction programmes to Health and Wellbeing, Applied Management, Design and Creative, and many other areas.
“Obviously, our international student numbers are down, given the implications of Covid-19. But the rise in domestic enrolments has certainly helped mitigate the reduced international market.”
Read the Otago Daily Times article
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Experiential learning (March 12 2021)
An appreciation for how different strategies contribute to learning is starting to increase autonomous learning beyond the classroom.
Students transitioning to tertiary study in New Zealand are often coming to terms with a new educational system which values independence of thought and personal responsibility for learning. For those who start with English for Academic Purposes courses, this is an opportunity for them also to learn these capabilities also to prepare them for further tertiary study.
Vera Nistor, a Senior Lecturer with the English department at our Auckland International Campus, has developed an experiential learning model for her students, for her own Master's study. Experiential learning is based on the concept of 'learning by doing', which incorporates reflection by students and facilitation by the teacher. The goal is to enable autonomous learning by students, with a model that they could personalise to best suit their learning needs in any given circumstances.
In the first phase of her research Vera conducted focus groups with former students. Students did not understand how different types of class tasks were using different learning strategies, so were unable to apply those strategies in subsequent courses.
Next Vera introduced current students more explicitly to the learning strategies they were using. In an anonymous survey afterwards the students showed they recalled and understood the strategies but were had not connected these into a learning model.
Thirdly Vera worked with a new cohort of students to develop a learning model as a class activity, eliciting from them the contribution which the different learning strategies they had been using would make to that model.
Vera's students later gave examples of how they used this model autonomously outside their English classes, such as at work, in their pastimes, and in subsequent study, demonstrating the universality of the learning process.
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The Wildlife Hospital turns three years old! (January 21 2021)
15th of January marked three years since the Dunedin wildlife hospital was founded!
You may not know, but The Wildlife Hospital is based at Otago Polytechnic and is home to some of the world's most unique and most threatened species.
We are very proud to say Otago Polytechnic, and the School of Veterinary Nursing have been a partner and supporter since day one.
This partnership has enabled our learners to graduate with a unique edge - and to be part of the movement to save our endangered wildlife!
Since 2018, our Dunedin on-campus students have been able to gain hands-on experience with sick and injured wildlife at The Wildlife Hospital.
Check out more on The Wildlife Hospital Dunedin here (and see some very cute native NZ wildlife)
Wishing you a very happy birthday,
Love Otago Polytechnic
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Dunedin, what a place to study! (January 19 2021)
Our Dunedin campus is at the heart of everything we do, and we're incredibly proud to play our part in recognising Dunedin as the 'tertiary education capital of NZ'.
The Dunedin startup scene is growing fast - sustainable technology, a demand for trades, and a call for creatives.
As the world changes, so do we! We've been constantly adapting our qualifications and training programmes with the environment to ensure our graduates have the skills, experience and know how's for the careers of the future.
With mentorships, internships and real world projects - our people really do make a better world.
Find out more on how we're educating work-ready graduates of the future here.
