Orientation is your introduction to student life.

Welcome to Otago Polytechnic!

Below you’ll find everything to get you started at Otago Polytechnic, plus info about all the epic events that kick off the year. 

Welcome and have fun! 

Checklist to get started 

• Get your ID card from The Hub 
• Find your way around Kāpehu, your online portal — click for instructions 
• Get WiFi set up on your devices — click for instructions 
• Set up your student email account — click for instructions 
• Get the Again Again app on your phone to borrow re-useable cups from Eden Café
• Find your classrooms — here is an interactive campus map 
• Attend Ori events!  

Events

We've got a great range of campus-wide events to get you started for the year. Remember, all Polytech students are also welcome at OUSA (Otago University Students' Association) events. Some of these are free, and some require you to buy tickets. It's a great way to get involved in the wider Dunedin student community.

Find a full list of OUSA events by clicking here. 

Getting around campus 

We know it can take a while to find your way around campus. Our Dunedin Campus has a number of buildings, which we refer to as blocks. Each block is assigned a letter.  

Our rooms follow this numbering system: Building letter + floor number + room number 
 
For example:  
H127 is H block, ground floor room 27 
D202 is D block, first floor, room 2 
 
Check out this interactive campus map to help you get around.   

Got a question?

Our friendly team are here to help. No matter how big or how small the question, we love getting you the information you need. You can walk up to the customer service desk, send an email or make a phone call—whichever works best for you. 
 
Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 5:00pm  

Phone: 0800 762 786 

Email: info@op.ac.nz 

In person: The Customer Services reception desk is located in the Mason Centre, just to the left of our Forth Street entrance. The desk is open Monday to Friday, 8:30am until 5:00pm. 

Student Support 

We offer a wide range of fantastic support options, right here on campus. They're here to support you through any issues that might arise, and make sure your time here is rewarding and fun. Services include counselling, career services, ākonga Māori support, a chaplaincy, learning advisors, Pasifika student support, international student support, online student advisors, and wellbeing support! 

We even have an entire website dedicated to our support services where you can book appointments online. Check it out here.

IT Support 

We all struggle with technology at times but we're here to help - during Ori week and during the rest of your studies. Our friendly team at the Service Desk can help you sort any of your IT issues, from connecting to our Wi-Fi, to finding your way around a student desktop. 

Drop in and see them in Room H107 (in The Hub), call 0800 765 948, or email servicedesk@op.ac.nz 

 Check out this webpage about all things IT!

Student Health

We have a Student Health Centre right here on campus! This provides the same services offered by your family doctor. It also offers health screening tests, nutrition advice, vaccinations, and some minor surgery options.

Find out more.

OPSA 

Otago Polytechnic Students' Association is an independent organisation run by students, for students. They are here to represent you and to advocate for you. OPSA manages a range of services and facilities including Unipol Gym and Recreation Centre, Student Job Search, budget advice, ID cards and discounts, and help with tenancy issues. They also host loads of awesome social events throughout the year.

Find out more about OPSA here.

Staying safe 

A great night ends with everybody safe. Keep these tips in mind as you hit parties, gigs and events to keep the good times going. 

• Charge your phone before you head out.   
• Eat something before you start drinking. 
• Hydrate! Moisturise! Stay fresh! by drinking water before, during and after you consume alcohol.  
• Lock your flat. Talk to your flatmates about locking up and take your key with you. If you’re in a hall, lock your room.  
• Plan how you're getting home at the end of your night. If you’re taking the bus, make sure you have money on your Bee Card or have some cash. 
• Save a taxi number into your phone or have Uber set up and ready.  
• Have a place to meet up with your friends if you get separated.  
• Consent is king—if everybody isn’t enthusiastic, it means no. 
• Be aware of the risk of drink spiking — don’t leave your drink unattended or accept any drinks that you haven't personally seen poured, especially from strangers.  
• Trust your gut. If you feel uncomfortable it’s okay to leave or ask for help.  
• Look after your friends, are you going home with the same number of people you headed out with?  
• Save the Campus Watch number to your phone: 0800 479 500. Campus Watch are available 24/7 and are there for you, so don’t hesitate to call for assistance or advice. 

Remember emergency services in New Zealand are reached by dialling 111. 

Taking care of yourself and your friends means you’ll all have awesome memories to treasure for years to come.