Events at University of Otago, Dunedin

About University of Otago

The University of Otago in Dunedin is New Zealand’s oldest university, founded in 1869 and opened to students in 1871. It is a public research university and an iconic venue in the city, known not just for academics but as a destination in its own right. About 20,000 students study here each year, giving the campus a vibrant energy. The University’s central campus has been recognized among the world’s most beautiful – blending stunning 19^th-century Gothic-style architecture with park-like grounds and the winding Water of Leith stream. Visitors often marvel at the signature Clocktower Building (the Registry Building) with its dark bluestone walls and white Oamaru stone trim, a landmark that has come to symbolize the University of Otago.

Historic significance is felt everywhere on campus. Otago was the first university in New Zealand, pioneering higher education and opening its doors to both male and female students from the start. Many “firsts” happened here – from the country’s first Medical School to early women graduates in law and science. This legacy gives the university a special place in the local and national story. The campus itself is woven into Dunedin’s cultural fabric; it’s not just a school, but a centerpiece of the community. The students (affectionately called “Scarfies” for the long scarves they wear in the chilly Dunedin winters) bring youthful energy, traditions, and creativity that shape the city’s character. Whether you’re an academic or a curious traveler, the University of Otago offers a unique experience – a mix of scholarly prestige, beautiful surroundings, and a lively student-driven atmosphere that makes it a must-see spot in Dunedin.

Events and Programming

Campus events at the University of Otago are diverse, ranging from academic talks to festive student celebrations. The University is famous for its student-led events – especially the annual Orientation Week (O-Week) each February, which kicks off the academic year with concerts, comedy shows, and themed parties. During O-Week, thousands of students and visitors enjoy live music from big-name acts. Recent years have seen popular New Zealand bands (like the Dunedin-formed Six60) and international DJs play open-air shows, creating an electric atmosphere on campus. Mid-year, there’s also a smaller “Re-Orientation” week of events, ensuring the entertainment continues year-round.

Beyond student parties, the University hosts cultural and academic events that are often open to the public. These include weekly lunchtime concerts by the Music Department (classical, jazz, and contemporary performances often held in venues like Marama Hall), theatre productions at Allen Hall Theatre, and public lectures featuring notable guest speakers. Every winter, for example, there may be an open lecture series or a scientific symposium inviting the community to engage with ideas. Another beloved tradition is the Capping Show – an annual student comedy revue that’s been running for over a century, full of skits and musical numbers that lampoon campus life and current events. It usually takes place in May and is open to anyone who buys a ticket, drawing locals as well as students’ families. Throughout the year you’ll also find art exhibitions, club events, film screenings, and even the occasional farmers’ market or food festival on the Union Lawn. Sports and recreation are part of campus life too. While major sports matches happen at Forsyth Barr Stadium nearby, the University’s athletics and clubs often organize games and tournaments on campus fields. In short, there’s always something happening at Otago – from high-profile concerts to small community gatherings – making the campus a lively hub of events and performances all year long.

Tickets and Booking

Visiting the campus itself is free – you don’t need any ticket to wander the grounds, enjoy the architecture, or attend most on-campus galleries and museums. However, if you plan to attend a specific event at the University of Otago, you may need to secure tickets or register beforehand. For major student events (like Orientation Week concerts, the Capping Show, or the OUSA Annual Ball), tickets are typically sold through the Otago University Students’ Association or authorized outlets. These can often be purchased online in advance or in person at the University’s Union building or campus bookstore. Popular O-Week gigs can sell out quickly (sometimes within days of going on sale in the summer), so it’s wise to book early if you’re keen to attend. Ticket prices vary by event: many campus events are low-cost or even free for students, while big-name concerts might range roughly from NZ$20 to NZ$50 per ticket.

General public events such as public lectures, exhibitions, and certain performances are often free to attend, though some may require you to reserve a spot. The University’s events calendar (available on their website and campus notice boards) is a great way to find what’s on and learn if an RSVP or ticket is needed. If there is a box office on site, it’s usually at the venue entrance or the University Information Centre, opening an hour or so before the show. It’s rare to find ticket scalpers or resale issues for campus events, but as with any venue, use official channels to avoid disappointment. For special campus tours or open days (for example, the University Open Day held annually for prospective students and the public), no tickets are required – you can simply show up and join the activities. In summary, plan ahead for the big student-run shows (grab those tickets early), but otherwise enjoy the many accessible events that University of Otago offers to everyone, often at little or no cost.

Seating and Layout

The University of Otago isn’t a single hall or arena – it’s a sprawling campus layout with multiple buildings, courtyards, and green spaces. When visiting, it helps to know the general “lay of the land.” The heart of campus is set along Albany Street and Cumberland Street, with the Clocktower Building and the main Quad (courtyard) on the west side of the Leith River, and many lecture theatres, libraries, and student facilities spread on both sides of the river. There’s no formal gated entrance – you can enter from dozens of points. The area is very pedestrian-friendly, with footpaths crisscrossing lawns and charming footbridges over the river. As a visitor, you’ll find maps on signboards around campus to orient you to key sites. If you’re attending a specific event, note the building name or lecture theatre number in advance. For instance, a play might be in Allen Hall (a small theatre building on the Union Street corner), or a guest lecture could be in the St. David Lecture Theatre complex. Each venue has its own layout, but generally classrooms and auditoriums have open seating.

Seating arrangements at campus events are usually general admission. In large lecture halls used for talks or film screenings, seats are first-come, first-served – there are no assigned seats. These spaces typically have tiered seating with clear sightlines; for example, the Castle lecture theatres and the St. David auditorium have steep seating banks so everyone gets a decent view. If you’re going to a performance in the Union Hall or on the Union Lawn, expect a more casual setup. Union Hall events (like gigs or dances) often have standing room or informal seating; it’s essentially a flat-floor hall, so arriving early to stand near the front is the best strategy for a great view. Outdoor events on the lawn are festival-style – feel free to bring a blanket to sit on the grass. There aren’t many “bad” spots, but if you prefer quieter or less crowded areas during a big concert, hanging back by the edges of the lawn allows you to see the stage without the press of the crowd. For an outdoor movie night or picnic event, people often cluster on the gently sloping lawn near the Library, which provides a natural incline for viewing. There are some VIP or reserved sections only on very rare occasions (for example, special guests at a graduation ceremony might have reserved rows), but typical visitors won’t need to worry about that. Finally, the campus is known for its pleasant acoustics and atmosphere – the mix of old stone buildings and open air makes even outdoor performances enjoyable. Just keep in mind Dunedin’s weather and dress accordingly if you’ll be sitting outside!

Getting There and Parking

Location: The University of Otago is located in North Dunedin, in the Otago region of New Zealand’s South Island. The campus is about 1.5 km north of Dunedin’s city centre (The Octagon), making it very accessible. If you’re coming from downtown, you can actually walk to the campus in about 15–20 minutes – just head north along George Street or Cumberland Street and you’ll soon see the ornate Clocktower and the green campus lawns. The University’s address is nominally 362 Leith Street, Dunedin, but the grounds span several city blocks. It’s nestled between State Highway 1’s one-way pair of streets: Castle Street (northbound) runs along the east side of campus, and Cumberland Street (southbound) runs along the west side. This means if you’re driving, you’ll likely pass right by the campus’s edge – keep an eye out for the stone buildings and the “University of Otago” signs.

By Car: Reaching the University by car is straightforward since it’s centrally located. From the airport (about a 30-minute drive away), or coming from the north or south, just follow signs to “City Centre” or “North Dunedin.” Once near the campus, the challenge is parking. Like many universities, on-campus parking is limited and in high demand. There are only a few designated visitor parking spots on campus, and these typically require prior arrangement or permits. Most staff parking areas and college parking are permit-only on weekdays. Visitors are encouraged to use street parking in the surrounding area. There are metered/pay-and-display parking spots along Albany Street, Union Street, and streets around the Otago Museum and Dunedin Hospital (just south of campus). Rates are set by the Dunedin City Council – typically a few dollars per hour during business hours (approximately 9am–6pm on weekdays). Evenings (after 6pm) and Sundays often have free or unrestricted parking, but always check the street signs to be sure. Be prepared to circle the block a bit to find a park, especially during university term time when the area is busy. A good strategy is to arrive a little early and look for parking a couple of blocks away, then enjoy a short walk onto campus. There is a paid public parking lot at the Museum (on Great King Street) and another near the Stadium at Anzac Avenue if you don’t mind a 10-minute walk.

Public Transport: The University is very well-served by Dunedin’s public bus network. Several city bus routes pass right by or through the campus area. From the city centre, you can hop on almost any north-bound bus – for example, routes heading to the Gardens, North East Valley, Pine Hill, or Port Chalmers all stop near the University. The main bus stops for campus are along Great King Street (outside the Dunedin Hospital and Museum, which are at the southern edge of campus) and along Albany Street. Buses in Dunedin are relatively frequent on weekdays (every 15–20 minutes on major routes) and a bit less frequent on evenings and weekends. The ride from the Octagon to the University takes only about 5 minutes by bus and usually costs around NZ$2–$3 (even less if you have a Bee Card, the local transit card). If you’re coming in by intercity coach or by train, you’ll likely arrive at the central Dunedin Railway Station or bus station – from there, a quick taxi or bus ride can bring you up to campus, or it’s a pleasant 25-minute walk through the city.

Rideshare and Taxis: Ride-hailing services like Uber and Ola operate in Dunedin, as do traditional taxis. A rideshare or taxi from the Octagon (city center) to the University of Otago campus usually takes about 5 minutes and is reasonably affordable given the short distance. Drivers will typically know where to drop you if you say “the University Clocktower” or “Library building.” A common drop-off spot is outside the St David Lecture Complex on Cumberland Street (which has a lay-by area), or by the University Information Centre on St David Street. There isn’t one single rideshare pick-up zone, but it’s easy to arrange a meeting point on campus – just choose a well-known building or entrance for your driver. Traffic around campus can be busy right on the hour when classes change, so plan pickups a few minutes after the top of the hour to avoid the student rush.

Walking and Cycling: One of the best ways to get to and around the University is on foot or by bike. The campus and its environs are very pedestrian-friendly. From the city center, walking is a great option – the route is flat and safe, passing shops and cafes. Cyclists will find bike lanes on some of the surrounding streets (especially on North Dunedin’s one-way streets) and plenty of bike racks on campus. The University promotes cycling, and you’ll see many students biking to class. There are bike stands near almost every major building, and even a few covered bike shelter areas (like outside the Central Library). Just be sure to bring a lock. Dunedin’s weather can be cool or rainy, so if you’re walking or cycling, a rain jacket and warm layer can be smart additions, especially in winter months.

Inside the Venue

Campus entry and security: The University of Otago campus is an open environment. There are no ticket gates or fenced perimeters – you can stroll in freely from any side. If you arrive during a weekday, you’ll find the grounds bustling with students heading to lectures, but you are welcome to walk around and explore. There are some guidelines to keep in mind: if you enter academic buildings, be respectful that classes or research might be in session. Most main academic buildings have public lobbies or corridors you can peek into. For example, you can step inside the ornate foyer of the Clocktower Building during business hours to see its grand staircase and stained glass window. Generally, campus security is low-key but present – the University has “Campus Watch” staff and security officers who patrol to help students and visitors. They are friendly and often assist with directions or any issues. Bag checks are not a routine part of entering campus (it’s not like an arena), though at large events (like a big concert or a graduation ceremony) security might check backpacks for prohibited items. Overall, expect a relaxed atmosphere when you enter: it feels more like a park or small town than a high-security venue.

Atmosphere and amenities: Inside the University, you’ll experience a mix of historic halls and modern facilities. The atmosphere varies by season – during the semester, weekdays are lively with students studying on the lawns, musicians strumming guitars under trees, and plenty of chatter. In the evenings and during summer break, the campus becomes tranquil, almost like a landscaped garden you have to yourself. There are plenty of benches and grassy areas to sit and soak up the setting. If you need information or assistance, the University Information Centre (located in the Clocktower Building on the ground floor) has staff who can answer questions. They also hand out free campus maps and brochures for visitors. You’ll find restrooms available in most buildings (look for signs for toilets in libraries, the Student Union, and classroom buildings – visitors can use these freely). The campus is also quite connected digitally: there is a free visitor Wi-Fi network called “UO_Guest” that you can join on your phone – just sign up with an email on the browser and you’ll have internet access while on campus. Cell phone coverage is strong across the university, so you’ll have no trouble staying connected.

Food and drink: There are plenty of options to grab a bite or drink on campus. The hub for food is the University Union building and the surrounding area. Inside the Union, you’ll find a food court (often referred to as the Link or Union Food Court) offering a variety of affordable meals – think sandwiches, sushi, pizza, hot Asian dishes, salads, and good coffee. It’s designed to cater to student budgets, so prices are reasonable. There’s also a popular café in the Link area for espresso, and a bakery counter with pastries and snacks. Scattered around campus are smaller cafés: for example, the St David Café near the Science buildings is a favorite for coffee and cabinet food, and the Commerce Building has a cafe where business students hang out. Even if you’re a visitor, you’re welcome to use these facilities. In fact, it can be a fun part of the experience to dine among the students – try the daily $5 lunch specials or grab a famous UniPol smoothie.

If you prefer a sit-down meal or a pint, just off campus there are several student-frequented spots. The historic Captain Cook Hotel (“The Cook”), directly adjacent to campus on Great King Street, is a gastropub that serves lunch, dinner, and local brews – it’s not officially university property but is essentially part of the campus scene. On Albany Street, you’ll find places like cafes, Subway, and other quick eats. Vending machines for drinks and snacks are also dotted around some halls for after-hours munchies. One thing to note: the campus is officially alcohol-free unless you’re at a licensed venue or event. That means you can’t walk around drinking a beer in the quad, but you can certainly enjoy one at The Cook or during a sanctioned event at the Union Hall which has a bar setup for concerts. Also, the University is a smoke-free campus – no smoking or vaping is allowed anywhere on the grounds, indoors or outdoors.

Special features inside: As you explore, keep an eye out for some unique spots. The Central Library (in the Information Services Building) is a modern, award-winning facility – visitors can enter the lobby and see its impressive atrium complete with a transparent roof and comfortable study areas (it almost feels like an airport lounge mixed with a cathedral of books). It’s a great place to warm up on a cold day. Nearby, the University Book Shop (actually just across the street from campus on Great King St) is one of New Zealand’s best bookstores and carries not only textbooks but also general books and gifts – a lovely place for book lovers to browse. On campus, there are also some small museums/exhibits: the Geology Department, for example, has a Rock and Mineral Museum in the Geology Building, and you might find heritage displays in the foyers of some buildings (the School of Mines building has old mining artifacts on display). Don’t forget to visit the University of Otago Visitors’ Centre located in the ISB Link/Union area – here you can buy official University merchandise like branded hoodies, t-shirts, scarves, and even graduation teddy bears. It’s a great stop for a souvenir and also doubles as an information spot for tourists. Coat checks aren’t a standard service on normal days, but for big events (like graduation ceremonies or formal dances) the venue organizers sometimes set up a coat check temporarily. In general, as you move around inside the campus buildings, you’ll find them welcoming. The mix of old common rooms with wood-paneled walls and new lounge areas with power outlets and Wi-Fi means you can both step back in time and feel the cutting-edge buzz of a modern university. If you need a moment of quiet, the campus also features a lovely chapel and reflective spaces such as the Sanctuary (a non-denominational quiet room) which is open for anyone seeking a peaceful break.

Nearby Amenities

Dining and drinks nearby: One of the perks of visiting the University of Otago is its central location – you have a wealth of amenities just a short walk away. If you want to have a meal or coffee before or after exploring campus, there are many options in the vicinity. For a quick, tasty meal, check out the eateries on Albany Street and George Street (which border the campus). You’ll find student-friendly restaurants serving everything from sushi and Indian curries to burgers and vegetarian fare. A popular café just off campus is The Good Earth on Cumberland Street, known for its great coffee and brunch – it’s frequented by both students and lecturers. For something uniquely “Dunedin student,” you might pop into Starters Bar on Frederick Street or Umbrellos (the Staff Club’s public bar on campus) if you’re visiting during one of their open evenings – they occasionally welcome visitors and have a cozy atmosphere in a historic building by the river.

If you’re looking for a sit-down dinner or a craft beer after a day of sightseeing, the city’s downtown Octagon area is only about 20 minutes’ walk or a 5-minute drive away, and it offers a wide range of pubs, breweries, and restaurants. However, you don’t even need to go that far: the North Dunedin neighborhood around the University has its own nightlife and food scene. The iconic Captain Cook Hotel (mentioned earlier) is a great spot for pub food and live music in the evenings. A few blocks north, towards the student residential area, there are takeaway shops (pizza, fish and chips, kebabs) that cater to the student crowd and are perfect for a quick bite. And if you stroll south to the Dunedin Hospital area (10 minutes from campus), you’ll find more cafes, a grocery store (CountDown supermarket on Cumberland St) to pick up snacks, and the trendy Warehouse Precinct a bit further where new bars and eateries have popped up.

Accommodation: Visitors to Dunedin will find several hotels and motels near the University, which is convenient if you want to stay close to campus. On Cumberland Street, just a block from the campus, there’s a Mercure hotel (Leisure Lodge) and a number of motels like Alhambra Oaks Motor Lodge and 538 Great King Motel – all within a 5-minute walk to the University grounds. These places often host visiting academics and parents, so they’re used to University visitors. Another unique option is the University’s own Executive Residence, a boutique hotel owned by the University of Otago, located right on campus (on the corner of Castle and Union Streets). It offers comfortable rooms in a converted historic house – staying there feels like being a part of the campus community. However, it has limited rooms, so book in advance. If you prefer to be in the city center, any central Dunedin hotel will still be fairly close – the campus is a short taxi or bus ride away. Budget travelers might consider one of the backpacker hostels or lodges in North Dunedin or the city; there are options like On Top Backpackers or YHA Dunedin that keep you near the action.

Other Nearby Attractions: The University sits adjacent to some of Dunedin’s best attractions, so you can really make a day of the area. Right next door (literally bordering the campus) is the Otago Museum – a fantastic natural history and cultural museum with free admission. It’s highly recommended for visitors; you can see everything from Maori artifacts to an ancient animal attic and a live butterfly rainforest in the Tropical Forest enclosure. Just beyond the northern end of campus are the Dunedin Botanic Gardens, about a 10–15 minute walk from the Clocktower. The Botanic Gardens are beautiful year-round, with extensive plant collections, a duck pond, and scenic walking paths – a great place to relax after touring the University. If you walk a few blocks east, you’ll hit the historic Dunedin Railway Station and the Toitū Otago Settlers Museum, and a few blocks south is the Octagon with its shops and the Dunedin Public Art Gallery. Essentially, the University is in the middle of a rich sightseeing zone.

Timing your visit: If you’re coming for an event, plan to arrive with time to spare to find parking and locate the venue. Usually getting to campus 30 minutes before a scheduled event is plenty. If you’re just visiting casually, the campus is lovely during the day. Many recommend visiting in the late morning or early afternoon, when the sunlight hits the Clocktower Building perfectly and students are out and about (giving you the full lively scene). During spring (September/October), the campus gardens bloom – cherry blossoms and the famous magnolia tree near the Clocktower are in flower, offering fantastic photo opportunities. In winter, it’s quieter but you might catch the occasional student snowman on the lawn if it frosts! Whenever you visit, rest assured there are cafes open nearby and friendly people around to help if you need directions. And for getting back to your hotel or next destination, if it’s late and buses have slowed down, rideshares from the campus area are readily available at night, especially around popular pick-up points like outside the main Library or the Museum.

What Makes This Venue Special

The University of Otago isn’t just another college campus – it’s a place filled with unique character and history that set it apart. First of all, the beauty of the campus is striking. With its mix of neo-Gothic stone buildings (some over 140 years old) and modern architecture, all arranged around the pretty Water of Leith, the setting is often described as “picture-perfect.” In fact, international publications have ranked University of Otago among the most beautiful university campuses in the world, alongside the likes of Oxford and Cambridge. Strolling through the pathways under big leafy trees, crossing old stone bridges, and hearing the Clocktower clock chime every quarter hour – it’s an experience that feels almost like stepping into a storybook. Many visitors are surprised to find trout and eels living in the clear waters of the campus stream, a sign of how scenic and natural the environment is despite being in the city.

Cultural significance also defines Otago. This university has been the intellectual cradle for many of New Zealand’s great minds and cultural contributions. For example, it produced the country’s first female graduates in medicine and law in the 1890s, paving the way for more inclusive education. It’s also known as the home of the “Scarfie” culture – a term that encapsulates the spirited, independent, and sometimes cheeky lifestyle of its students. Over decades, Scarfie culture has given rise to legendary stories and traditions: from the Hyde Street keg party (a famous student extravaganza each year on a nearby street) to the world-record-setting Toga Party where thousands of first-years once donned bedsheet togas for a massive gathering. While some of these events are student-only, they’ve become part of Dunedin’s lore and underline the special bond between the city and its university. The energy and creativity of the students have even influenced New Zealand’s music and arts – the renowned “Dunedin Sound” music movement of the 1980s, for instance, was largely born from University of Otago students forming bands and creating a new indie rock style. Even today, many local bands get their start playing at campus venues and flat parties.

Another aspect that makes the venue special is the way it marries tradition with innovation. On one hand, you have the elegant Clocktower Building, which has stood since 1879 as a heritage icon – it’s often illuminated at night and reflecting in the river like a postcard image. On the other hand, you have cutting-edge facilities like the Dental School complex, a state-of-the-art building (opened in 2019) that is the most technologically advanced dental training facility in the Southern Hemisphere. Walking the campus, you might hear the bell of an old chapel at one moment and then come across a high-tech science lab the next. This blend of old and new creates a unique ambiance that visitors find fascinating. The University is also deeply woven into the economic and social life of Dunedin. It contributes around 15% of Dunedin’s gross regional product and is one of the city’s largest employers – meaning the success and vibrancy of the University directly uplift the whole community. Locals are proud of Otago and fondly support its events, from cheering on the student teams in rugby matches to attending inaugural professorial lectures.

Memorable moments and fame: Over the years, the University of Otago has had its share of memorable events. Royal visits have taken place on these grounds (Queen Elizabeth II visited the campus in 1977), and internationally renowned scholars and dignitaries have given talks in its halls. The campus has even been used as a filming location due to its aesthetic appeal – it appears in various tourism promotions for Dunedin and has doubled as a “Hogwarts-like” backdrop for creative projects. Alumni often express a deep nostalgia for their days at Otago, and it’s common to see graduates returning just to take a photo in front of the Clocktower on their visits to Dunedin. For many artists and performers who have come here, the enthusiasm of Otago students is unforgettable – musicians playing an Orientation Week gig often mention how incredible the crowd energy is in this student town. Visitors, too, frequently note that there’s something intangible yet special about the vibe on campus. It’s the friendliness of people who will smile or say hello on a walk, the sight of students in academic gowns trekking to the Town Hall for graduation ceremonies, and the sense of history in the walls. All these factors combine to make the University of Otago a truly special venue – one that’s at once academically prestigious, culturally rich, and warmly welcoming to anyone who steps into its world.

Visitor Tips and Information

Accessibility: The University of Otago campus is generally very accessible to visitors of all abilities. The terrain of the main campus is flat or gently sloping, which makes it easy to walk or roll through. Most of the newer buildings and main entrances have ramp or ground-level access for wheelchairs and strollers. For example, the Central Library and the St David lecture complex have elevators and ramps. Many of the older historic buildings (like the Clocktower Building) have been retrofitted with ramps or alternative entrances to improve accessibility – if you don’t immediately see an accessible entrance, there will usually be signage pointing you to a side or rear door with ramp access. There are also a number of mobility parks (disabled parking spaces) on streets adjacent to campus and a few on campus; a valid permit is required to use these. If you have specific needs, you can contact the University’s Campus Watch or Information Centre upon arrival – they are very helpful and can even arrange a campus shuttle or assistance if needed. The campus has accessible restrooms in all major buildings and the Union. Additionally, if you are hearing-impaired or vision-impaired and attending a public lecture, the University has services like hearing loops in bigger lecture theatres and can sometimes arrange materials in advance – it’s worth inquiring with event organizers.

Things to bring: When visiting, consider bringing a few items to make your experience comfortable. A camera or smartphone is a must – you’ll want to capture the beautiful architecture and scenery (the Clocktower over the river is a classic shot, as is the archway of the Geology Building and the lush gardens). Wear comfortable walking shoes since you’ll likely be exploring by foot; the campus encourages wandering. An extra layer of clothing or a light jacket is smart, even in summer, because Dunedin’s weather can change quickly – mornings and evenings get cool, and there’s often a breeze. If the forecast hints at rain, pack an umbrella; there are plenty of spots to duck under shelter, but having an umbrella lets you keep touring even during a passing shower. Conversely, on a sunny day, sunscreen and sunglasses are wise – there are open lawns where you might lounge or watch a game, and UV can be strong. You might also want to carry a reusable water bottle. The University has numerous water fountains and refill stations (part of its sustainability initiatives), so you can stay hydrated as you walk around.

What not to bring or do: As a courtesy, avoid bringing anything that might disrupt the peaceful campus environment. For example, drones are not allowed to be flown over campus without permission (the University has a policy against unapproved drone use for safety and privacy). So it’s best to leave the drone at home and stick to ground photography. Don’t bring alcohol to consume on the public grounds; remember the campus is alcohol-free except at licensed events, so walking around with open containers can get you in trouble with Campus Watch or the police. Large banners, amplified sound systems, or anything that looks like you’re staging an event would also require permission – if you’re just a visitor, you wouldn’t need these anyway, but it’s good to know the campus has rules against unregistered gatherings or promotions. In terms of attire, there’s no strict dress code for being on campus (casual dress is fine, many students will be in shorts and T-shirts in summer or puffer jackets and beanies in winter), but if you plan to attend a formal event like a graduation or a ceremonial lecture, business or smart casual attire would be appropriate. Also, while not a “ban,” it’s wise not to bring your car right into the campus core – as mentioned, parking is scarce and mostly restricted. You’re better off parking on the periphery or using transit rather than risk a parking ticket in a reserved bay.

Timing and avoiding crowds: If you prefer a quieter experience, avoid visiting in the 10 minutes on the hour during term time (e.g., 10:50am-11:00am, 11:50am-12:00pm, etc.). This is when lectures end and hundreds of students flood the walkways to get to their next class, which can be exciting to see but also a bit overwhelming if you’re trying to take a peaceful photo or navigate quickly. Plan your strolls slightly off this schedule to have the paths more to yourself. Another tip: the campus is especially quiet on weekends outside of exam periods. If you visit on a Saturday or Sunday, you can enjoy the space almost like a park, with just a handful of students studying in the library or playing sports. However, note that certain facilities (like the interior of the Library or Union eateries) may have shorter hours or be closed on a Sunday.

Family friendliness and age restrictions: The campus is very family-friendly. Children are welcome to walk around with parents – you’ll often see local families picnicking by the Leith River on weekends or using the campus as a through-route for a stroll. There’s no age restriction to enter campus or even to sit in on a public lecture (if a kid really wanted to!). Do keep an eye on little ones near the riverbanks for safety, as the water is un-fenced in most places. If you’re bringing a stroller, you can navigate most of the campus easily, though occasionally you might need to find a ramp route instead of stairs. For formal events or performances, check if there are age guidelines; for instance, some evening concerts organized by the student association might be R18 (restricted to 18 and over) because alcohol is served, while daytime events and lectures are generally open to all ages. If in doubt, the event listing will usually specify any age restriction.

Insider tips: To get the most out of your visit, here are a few insider suggestions. Firstly, take advantage of the free campus tours if they’re available. The University’s Schools’ Liaison Office often runs guided tours for prospective students, but visitors can sometimes tag along or you can inquire about a guided tour from the Visitor Centre. These tours, led by current students, will give you anecdotes and access to spots you might miss on your own (and they’re usually free of charge). Secondly, don’t miss the photo opportunity at the Lover’s Bridge – this is the little pedestrian bridge behind the Clocktower Building. Stand across the river from the Clocktower around mid-day or early afternoon; the sun will be in a good position to illuminate the front of the building for a perfect shot with its reflection in the water. Another tip: if you need a restroom or a place to freshen up, head into the Central Library or the Link (they are open to the public during the day) – they have clean facilities and water fountains, and nobody will mind a visitor stepping in. Also, check out the bulletin boards and plasma screens in the Link or Union: they often advertise any interesting public events happening that day – who knows, you might stumble on a free workshop, a market day with stalls, or a club fundraiser bake sale that you can enjoy. Lastly, remember that Dunedin’s evenings can get cold even after a warm day, because the sun sets early in winter and a cool sea breeze can come in. So if you’re attending an outdoor event that runs into the night (like an evening concert on campus or at the nearby stadium), bring something warm to put on. Locals often carry a beanie or scarf just in case – there’s a reason students here are called Scarfies, after all! By following these tips and observing the basic campus guidelines, you’ll have a safe, enjoyable, and enriching visit to the University of Otago.