We are committed to the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual wellbeing of all staff and students. Read about the various support we offer and make sure to watch the video at the bottom of the page.
Health, Safety & Wellbeing
Health, safety and wellbeing (H&S) are critical to any organisation. The Health, Safety and Wellbeing team provide a safe workplace for you, your fellow workers, students and visitors. They offer a range of services which can be viewed here.
You can also log any H&S incidents or near-misses you experience or witness through Vault, an online system used to record H&S events.
Key contact: hsa@otago.ac.nz
Recreation Services
The UniPol gym is a great place to unwind after a long day, or perfect to wake you up before a busy day. Including free weights, cardio, classes and organised trips, UniPol is a must see.
Visit the website here.
Key contact: recreation@otago.ac.nz
Dunedin Campus Safety
The Campus Watch team aims to improve the quality of the student experience in the wider Dunedin campus environment. They also provide assistance to staff, residents and businesses in North Dunedin.
The Campus Cop is a sworn member of the NZ Police, resident on campus. He is a vital link between the Police, University staff and students and the community.
Both Campus Watch and the Campus Cop operate out of the Proctor’s Office, responsible for the pastoral care of all staff and students.
Key contacts:
campus.watch@otago.ac.nz
campus.cop@otago.ac.nz
proctor@otago.ac.nz
Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
The Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) is a free, confidential counselling service available to University of Otago staff.
Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
Key contact:
Occupational Mental Health & Wellbeing Advisor at carina.perner@otago.ac.nz.
Mediation Services
Mediation at Otago is an informal process designed to resolve problems and differences as early as possible.
It is voluntary, confidential, and a process where those with the problem work out solutions, with the help of the mediator.
Key contact:
University Mediator at jennifer.anderson@otago.ac.nz.
Accessibility
At Otago, the Campus Design for Access and Mobility Policy ensures that, where practicable, all University of Otago buildings, grounds, walkways and car parks are accessible to students, staff and visitors with disabilities.
You can find out more here.
OUSA (Otago University Student Association)
OUSA is available on the Dunedin Campus only.
OUSA runs all the clubs and societies that the University has to offer. Although these are primarily aimed at students, staff can participate too.
Key contact: ousa@ousa.org.nz
Chaplains
The campus chaplains offer pastoral care and spiritual support for all students and staff at the University of Otago and Otago Polytechnic. Near the Dunedin campus, there are a variety of faith centres.
Key contacts:
General Enquiries at chaplains@otago.ac.nz
Māori Chaplain at maori.chaplain@otago.ac.nz
Muslim Chaplain at muslimchaplaincy@otago.ac.nz