Archive for 2024
Events
- September Graduation (April 15 2024)
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Free poetry performance by Dunedin kaimahi Claire Lacey (April 15 2024)
Claire Lacey is a member of the Marketing, Communications and Engagement team at Otago Polytechnic's Dunedin Campus. Claire is also an award-winning poet, known for an engaging performance style. Their poetry explores the embodied experience of living with brain injury, politics, the environment, and the absurdity of it all.
Claire has a PhD in poetry and brain injury from the University of Otago, and is the author of two books: Twin Tongues and Selkie. Their poetry has appeared in publications including Landfall, 1964 and takahē. Claire's work has also been included in the anthologies Impact! Women Writing After Concussion, and Cumulus: An Anthology of Skies.
Claire has performed across Canada, in England, and all over the South Island. Join them for their first Auckland appearance!
Free entry. Event is upstairs at Time Out Bookstore.
Friday April 19th at 7pm.Claire's books will be for sale.
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Tāngata - Celebrating the cultures within OP (April 5 2024)
Featuring performances by:
Dunedin K Pop Crew
Otago Filipino Students' Association
Otago Latino Students' Association
Otago Niuean Students' Association
Kadodo Music - African Drumming
O-Taiko Japanese Drumming
Otago Kiribati Students' Association
He Waka Kōtuia Kapahaka
Te Vaka Cook Islands Group
DJ Woody
and more!
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Life Matters Laps For Life (March 8 2024)
Life Matters are pleased to present Laps for Life - together let's collectively run, jog or walk over 365km - 1km for every day of new possibilities in a year.
When: Sunday 14 April, 10am - 4pm
Where: North Grounds - Alhambra Rugby Fields
Food trucksFun free activities
Spot prizes
Sausage sizzle
Grab some mates and join in to support a great cause.
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Students meet Industry (March 4 2024)
Join the ITP Auckland branch committee for another networking event kindly hosted by GridAKL. Exciting Opportunity to Put Your Networking Skills into Practice!
This event will be a fantastic networking opportunity for industry professionals to come together and share their advice and experience with technology students and each other.
Nibbles and drinks are provided.
- Networking opportunity for members to get together
- Opportunity for students to meet members of the industry and learn from their experiences
- Short talks from industry about a "day in the life" of an IT Professional for students to learn from
- Casual talks about what they do every day (5 minutes each)
- Q&A session at the end
This is a free community event. Please RSVP for catering numbers.
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Your Professional Profile (March 2 2024)
Whether you're looking for a placement, grad role, entry-level role, or part-time job while you’re studying, it’s important to think about how you’re seen by employers.
We’ll show you the value of a professional brand and share tips for creating a quality profile to help you stand out from the crowd.
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How to design your Career (March 1 2024)
WORKSHOP OBJECTIVES
- Understand the importance of ‘knowing yourself’ (self-awareness)
- Explore and articulate your personal qualities
- Explore your preferred skills and identify those you wish to develop
- Explore your values and how they relate to your preferred work environments
Bringing it all Together
- Take the time to think about your strengths and preferences
- Consider how they may impact on your goals, future experiences, internship etc…
- Start identifying areas you wish to explore further and develop
- Don’t dwell on things that aren’t useful
- Accept your strengths and talents!
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How to Succeed in an Interview (February 21 2024)
Unlock your potential and ace your next job interview with the Employability Centre workshop, 'How to Succeed in an Interview,' designed to equip you with the strategies and confidence to make a lasting impression.
WORKSHOP OBJECTIVES
- Understand the types of interviews that are conducted in New Zealand.
- Gain information on how to best prepare for interviews.
- Learn the STAR technique in preparing answers to commonly asked questions.
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Midwifery Research Seminar 26th February (February 21 2024)
Online Midwifery Research Seminar
All are welcome to join this online research seminar organised by the School of Midwifery I Te Kura Atawhai ka Kaiakopono te Hakuitaka
Where: On Teams Click here to join the meeting
When: Monday, 26 February, 1-2pm
Presenter: Annabel Farry
Title of talk: HALO | Ahuru Mõwai
Short description: A co-designed tool to preserve membranes in normal labour and birth.
Bio: Annabel Farry has been a practicing midwife for almost 30 years. She is a homebirth advocate and a researcher and educator. Annabel has recently joined the postgraduate team as a Principal Lecturer in the School of Midwifery.
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OPAIC Student Forum (February 19 2024)
Your feedback is important to us. Come along to a confidential discussion with the Student Success team and let us know how things are going for you at OPAIC. Your feedback is important to help us improve our services. Lunch will be provided.
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Mario Party at AIC! (February 19 2024)
Join us for a mushroom kingdom extravaganza!
Tuarangi Gaming Club is throwing an epic Super Mario Party gaming event this Wednesday, 21 February. Come on down to Level 1 at 12pm for a shell-spinning good time!
See you there!
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Lunar New Year Celebration (February 15 2024)
Join us as we celebrate the Lunar New Year on campus.
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Graduation - March 2024 (January 29 2024)
Friday 15 March 2024
Ceremony One: 12:30pm
Ceremony Two: 3:30pm
More information will be available when registrations close on February 2nd.
Please ensure you have ordered your staff regalia for the event. Contact graduation@op.ac.nz if you have any questions.
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Tertiary Open Day 2024 (January 23 2024)
Save the date for TOD 2024!
Day One | Sunday 26 May, 10am - 2pm
Day Two | Monday 27 May, 9am - 3pm
Both days will include our main expo, info session, workshops, and tours.
A form has been sent out to your school admins and ops coordinators. However, if you would like to share any info please contact bronwyn.wallace@op.ac.nz or events@op.ac.nz
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Charity House Open Homes (November 2 2023)
For the 17th year running, our Carpentry students have built a house to auction for charity.
Funds raised go to Catalytic Foundation, which distributes the proceeds to charities throughout Otago.
During our Open Homes events, you have the opportunity to walk through the finished building and see the wonderful mahi our students have done in support of a great cause.
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Emerging Visionaries (August 24 2023)
Join us and hear from passionate people researching and practising sustainability in Aotearoa. Please register for the event using this link.
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Life's a Gas: Art+Science Exhibition 2022 (AIR) (September 29 2022)
SAT 1 OCT to SAT 8 OCT, (closed Sunday 2 OCT) DUNEDIN COMMUNITY GALLERY 26 PRINCES STREET, just down from the OctagonLife's a Gas: Art+Science Exhibition 2022 (AIR)
Nau mai, haere mai,
In this, the ninth theme in the Art+Science collaboration series we will be exploring the many interconnected notions of “Air”, scaling between human breath and planetary breathing in the past, present and future.
Air flows in an endless cycle, nurturing, sustaining and transforming all whom it touches. Air/breath/wind is the nebulous thing that connects all living beings. In te Ao Māori hau is the breath or wind of life.
Tihei Mauri Ora – behold the breath of life.
Free art making, games and activities suitable for the whole whānau during the week and weekend.*
In-gallery activities and sessions as advertised on eventbrite and facebook. Look out for our "Meet the scientist" sessions, art activities and other workshops on eventbrite.
These are all FREE but will be ticketed as numbers are limited.
* Children must be accompanied by a parent or caregiver) -
SAVE THE DATE - SITE 2022 (September 19 2022)
We are counting down the days to SITE 2022!
Public Opening Night: Friday 18 November, 2022 (times tbc. Likely 5:30 – 7:30pm)
Exhibition Open: 10am-4pm; Saturday 19th, Sunday 20th & Monday 21st November, 2022
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Neuroabilities Symposium (October 12 2022)
This symposium focuses on Kanorau ā-roro neuro-abilities; we ask individuals, learners, and educators to share their knowledge of neurodiversity with us.
The Neuroabilities Symposium will be held at:
Otago Polytechnic/Te Kura Matatini ki Otago,
Dunedin,
New Zealand,October 12-13th, 2023.
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Southern Architecture Week (September 13 2022)
Southern Architecture Week 2022, from September 13-17, includes the following events:
Arrowtown Walk Through Time
A walk through time of Arrowtown’s main street, from the gold rush and massive growth to the late 19th century decline. Presented by local Architect Ed Elliott, this talk will explore early settlement patterns, social and political effects on the main street, reasons for survival of the buildings and precinct, slow gradual regrowth with tourism and examples of heritage preservation. All with reference to the International Council of Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) New Zealand Charter.
Tuesday 13 September
Venue: O Block (Ōwheo Building), Otago Polytechnic, 115 Anzac Avenue, Dunedin.
Time: Doors open 4.30pm for a 5.00pm start. Free entry.Pecha Kucha Dunedin Ōtepoti
Part of the 2022 New Zealand Institute of Architects Southern Architecture Week, this Pecha Kucha 20x20 event explores Dunedin / Ōtepoti architecture, urban issues, culture, heritage and sustainability. Bringing together architects, artists, urban designers, heritage developers and others to present their personal thoughts on our great city and its sustainable future, in the quick-fire Powered by Pecha Kucha 20x20 format. Confirmed speakers include Skye Duncan, Megan Potiki, Dr Glen Hazelton, Dr Jean-Luc Payan, Professor Janet Stephenson and Lawrie Forbes.
Wednesday September 14
Venue: O Block (Ōwheo Building), Otago Polytechnic, 115 Anzac Avenue, Dunedin.
Doors open 6.00pm for a 6.30pm start. Free entry; please RSVP.
Food & beverage provided by Precinct, with thanks to our sponsors Resene, APL and ITI Timspec.Ted McCoy Public Lecture 2022: Game of Architecture
This talk by Anthony Hoete utilises Ted McCoy’s book ‘A Southern Architecture’ as a springboard to dive into his own ‘Game of Architecture.’ As an interrogation of the work of WHAT_architecture, the RIBA chartered practice Hoete founded in London, the proposition is that architecture is a game and played by a set of rules and roles that the architect is not entirely in control of. Yet, with the appropriate strategies, the game could be positively transformed.
Thursday 15 September
Venue: O Block (Ōwheo Building), Otago Polytechnic, 115 Anzac Avenue.
Doors open 6.00pm with a 6.30pm start.
Free entry.
This event is kindly supported by Schneider Electric, Naylor Love, Design Windows & Allegion. Venue kindly provided by Otago Polytechnic.Education Precinct Walking Tour
A guided walking tour of three recent education precinct buildings:
— University of Otago Dental School by Jasmax / PWTA / Brewster Hjorth
— University of Otago School of Music by Baker Garden Architects
— Otago Polytechnic Student Accommodation by Mason & Wales Architects, with Simon Kaan
Saturday 17 September
Where: Meet at the front of the Dental School, the Walsh Building (old main entrance), 310 Great King Street, Dunedin
Time: Saturday 17 September, 1pm—4pm.
Free. -
Online Midwifery Research Seminar - update (September 12 2022)
All are welcome to join this free online research seminar organised by the School of Midwifery
Where: On Teams Click here to join the meeting
When: Monday 19 September, 1-2pm
Presenter: Karen Wakelin
Title: Development of a reliable and valid tool for use in online surveys: Exploring how communication technology is used between Lead Maternity Carer midwives and pregnant people in Aotearoa New Zealand
Presentation: Online surveys are increasingly being used to gather data within healthcare. Validity and reliability of tool design is important in ensuring the instruments are measuring what they intend to measure. Two online survey tools were developed and then validated using an expert advisory group of seven midwifery academic researchers with experience in both quantitative and qualitative research designs. Karen will outline the process used to develop and validate the two online surveys.
Bio: Karen Wakelin is a Principal midwifery lecturer in the School of Midwifery and a PhD candidate through AUT.
News
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Finance Deadlines this week - Supplier Payments (April 23 2024)
Due to Thursday being a public holiday we will be making supplier payments tomorrow, Wednesday 24 April.
Please ensure all items due for payment have been receipted & sent to finance@op.ac.nz by 4pm today for them to be picked up in the payment run for tomorrow.
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Internet Outage: 22nd April, evening (April 17 2024)
There will be a series of brief internet outages on Monday 22nd April between 5pm and 6pm, we apologize for any inconvenience this may cause
Regards
ISS
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Expressions of Interest - Startup Dunedin Trustee (March 4 2024)
Expressions of interest are now open for current Otago Polytechnic | Te Pūkenga kaimahi to register their interest in a role as a Startup Ōtepoti | Dunedin Trustee.
As a Trustee, you will work with other Trustees from the Ōtepoti Startup community to help make Dunedin the world’s most entrepreneurial small city. Startup Dunedin exists to remove roadblocks for founders through running initiatives like Audacious, an entrepreneurial programme for OP and University of Otago ākonga.
You will need to:
• be passionate about startups;
• be willing to think strategically and contribute your voice to Board discussions;
• have, or be willing to develop, skills and knowledge relating to the startup ecosystem; and
• have good institutional knowledge and strong relationships within OP.While this is a volunteer role, you can work with your formal leader, and within OP parameters during your working day, to attend to Startup mahi. Being a trustee is a great opportunity to expand your knowledge and contribute to the growing ecosystem. Meetings are held every two months from 4 - 6 pm on the second to last Tuesday of the month. This role represents OP and is a chance for you to enter governance, extend your current portfolio, and make a difference in your community.
Further information about Startup Dunedin can be found on their website.
Please send your Expression of Interest in a one page letter outlining why you think you are the person for this role, along with your current CV to vacancies@op.ac.nz by 12 noon Tuesday 12 March 2024. Following the closing date, the usual OP recruitment processes will follow in conjunction with the Startup Dunedin Chair, Wade Pearson.
Any questions please contact Lizzie McKenzie or Vanya Thurston.
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Broadening Research Methodology (February 29 2024)
You're invited to attend a research methodology workshop hosted by Ara.
Scott Klenner will present on Indigenous Approaches.
Friday 1 March, 1.00 - 4.00 pm
Programme
Methodological development - Allen Hill
Q & A and Break
Quantitative approaches – Lena Mkwara
Indigenous approaches – Scott Klenner
Creative / Practice-based research – Bruce Russell
Systematic literature review – Margaret Hughes
Q & A and Break
‘World Café’ - 10 minutes at each destination or more if required (for those on site at Ara)If on site at OP, go to F 209 - Puna Kawa for the meeting and our own discussion.
** The introduction from Allen Hill and the presentations will be recorded **
Meeting URL:
https://ara.zoom.us/j/92106602879?pwd=R3oxZStHNmNPSlBORFkzZ1dWa2pDdz09&from=addon
Meeting ID:
921 0660 2879
Passcode:
749009
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Ako Aotearoa Research Fund - now open! (April 22 2024)
Kia ora,
The Ako Aotearoa Research and Innovation Agenda (AARIA) programme research fund is now open. The fund is designed to support the tertiary education system to produce better learning outcomes, share research and innovation findings in ways that support teaching and learning/education and training, and provide opportunities for collaborative work and networking.
For this year’s round of AARIA projects, Ako Aotearoa are seeking proposals that align with all its broader priorities and one or more of our targeted priorities:
Broader priorities:
- Ōritetanga (Equity)
- Te Tiriti o Waitangi (Treaty of Waitangi)
- Auaha (Innovation)
- Hua Akoranga (Learner Outcomes)
Targeted priorities:
- Neurodiversity
- Te Tiriti o Waitangi (Treaty of Waitangi)
- Mātauranga Māori (Māori knowledge)
- Pacific Cultures
- Leadership and Management Training
- Reflective Practice
- Artificial Intelligence
- Education Technology
The value of each contract will range from $10,000 to $50,000 over a duration of 5-12 months.
KEY DATES
Registrations of interest: Tuesday 14 May 2024
Full proposal submission: Friday 14 June 2024Visit the AARIA webpage for more information and to download the guidelines, proposal form, and CV template.
Please consider putting in an application and contact the Research office if you want to discuss it.
Ngā mihi,
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Mindfulness training on campus (April 17 2024)
If you've ever been interested in learning how to meditate, Core Meditation mindfulness training is now happening every Tuesday or Wednesday night in G309.
Over the next couple of months we're running these classes.
April 24 7 - 8 pm Metta (loving kindness meditation) May 1, 8, 15 7 - 8 pm Breathe May 22 7 - 8:30pm Everyday mindfulness for stress and anxiety June 4, 11, 18 7 - 8pm Breathe June 19 7 - 8pm Metta
More information follows -
FLANZ 2024 Conference - Call for Submissions (April 15 2024)
The Flexible Learning Association of New Zealand (FLANZ) is seeking submissions for the FLANZ 2024 conference which will be held between 26 – 28 August 2024 at the Grafton Campus of Waipapa Taumata Rau / University of Auckland.
All submissions are due on Sunday, 28 April 2024.
The theme this year will be Evolving Practice in Flexible Learning which will be covered under the following streams:
- Evolutionary practice, flexible methods and pathways
- Technologies and models
- Professional development and training
- Sustainable practices
- Diversity, equity and inclusion
All submissions will be peer-reviewed.
The following types of submissions are welcome:
- Full paper
- Practice paper
- Poster
- Workshop proposal
- Work Integrated Learning Plenary proposal or pannel discussion
All submissions are due on Sunday, 28 April 2024.
If you are interested in reviewing submissions, please express your interest by writing to Conference@flanz.org.nz .
Further details about the conference are available at https://flanz.org.nz/conferences/2024-conference/. Please feel free to forward this message to anyone who may be interested in being part of this conference.
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Manaaki dining this week (April 8 2024)
There are a few seats available for dining in Manaaki this Wednesday and Thursday.
Due to a timetable constraint there is only one dining time = 11.45am.
Email: bookings@op.ac.nz
See menu below:
Bistro Menu 10-11 April
Presented by Level 4 Cookery
Served by Food & Beverage
2 course menu $25
(includes complimentary espresso beverage
of your choice with dessert)
Mains
Gnocchi tossed with mushrooms, blue cheese, sage, and walnut cream sauce.
Braised pork belly with creamy mash, on a bed of roasted root vegetables, minted peas and red wine jus
Leek, dill, and potato galette in a pistachio crust, drizzled with honey syrup and a seasonal salad
Desserts
Passionfruit cheesecake with raspberry sorbet
Meringue nest filled with ambrosia cream
Guinness cake with cream cheese icing and chocolate gingernut ice cream
All menus are subject to change
Please let your server know if you have any dietary requirements – we will do our best to accommodate however we can only guarantee LOW gluten and nut allergens due to the kitchen environment. If you have advised requirements at time of booking we can be better prepared on such a small menu.
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Te Hononga Ākonga (March 28 2024)
Tēnā tātou,
We are looking forward to hosting our ākonga Māori for Te Hononga Ākonga.
Please see the event section of Tūhono for more details.
Any pātai, īmera mai ki tepunakaowheo@op.ac.nz
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Scope - submissions close 30 April 2024 (March 26 2024)
SUBMISSIONS FOR UPCOMING ISSUES OF SCOPE CLOSE ON 30 APRIL.
Scope: Contemporary Research Topics is a series of peer-reviewed open access journals published annually in November by Otago Polytechnic Press.
Here's your chance to get your research published in one of these journals:
Art and Design Issue 26. Theme: Open
The journal Scope (Art & Design) aims to engage discussion on contemporary research in the visual arts and design. It is concerned with views and critical debates surrounding issues of practice, theory, history and their relationships as manifested through the visual and related arts and activities, such as sound, performance, curation, tactile and immersive environments, digital scapes and methodological considerations. With New Zealand and its Pacific neighbours as a backdrop, but not its only stage, Scope (Art & Design) seeks to address the matters which concern contemporary artists and arts enquirers in their environments of practice. ISSN (print): 1177-5653; ISSN (online): 1177-5661.
Submissions to scope.editorial@op.ac.nz
Health & Wellbeing Issue 9. Theme: Health Inequities - local/global responses to social, environmental, behavioural, economic and climate concerns
The journal Scope (Health & Wellbeing) aims to engage in multidisciplinary discussion on contemporary research in the landscape of health. It is concerned with views and critical debates surrounding issues of practice, theory, education, history and their relationships as manifested through the written and visual activities, such as original research, commentary, and critical debates concerning contemporary researchers, industry, society and educators in their environments of national and international practice. Scope’s focus is on building a sense of community amongst researchers in New Zealand and the international community. ISSN (print): 2537-8872; ISSN (online): 2537-8880 .
Submissions to Jean.Ross@op.ac.nz
Learning and Teaching
The journal Scope (Learning and Teaching) is concerned with views, critical debate and reflections on learning and teaching theory and practice. It seeks to address current topical matters in the field of tertiary and vocational education. Its focus is on building a sense of community amongst researchers from an array of New Zealand institutions with the goal of linking with a wider international community. ISSN: 1179-951X (hardcopy), ISSN: 1178- 9528 (online).
Learning and Teaching Issue 13. Theme: Open
We are interested in a broad range of topics that deal with the opportunities, challenges, concepts and critical thinking that inform contemporary learning and teaching practice in higher education within New Zealand. In particular, contributions that explore experiences, practices and learnings around Neurodiversity and Neurodivergence are welcomed.
Submissions to scope.editorial@op.ac.nz Please include ‘Scope (Learning and Teaching)’ in the subject line.
Learning and Teaching Special Issue 14. Theme: Teaching Excellence
Teaching excellence is concerned with research, critical debate, and reflections on theories and practice of teaching excellence. It seeks to address current thoughts around teaching excellence in the field of tertiary and vocational education, and to contribute to the ongoing conversations around this topic.
Submissions to Claire.Goode@op.ac.nz
Work-based Learning Issue 6. Theme: Research in Workplaces in an Age of Disruption
The journal Scope (Work-based Learning) focuses on contemporary research in assessment of prior learning, learning in, for, and about work, and professional practice. It is concerned with critical debate about practice, theory, and history, and their relationships as manifested in the experiences of learners, practitioners, and researchers in work-based learning and professional practice. ISSN 2703-6227 (print) ISSN 2703-6235 (online).
Amidst the rapid changes reshaping our world, we invite you to contribute your valuable insights to explore the dynamic transformations occurring within workplaces. The 2024 issue seeks to understand how social disruption, technological advancements and shifting workforce dynamics are impacting people, their place of work and their resilience.
Submissions to Henk.Roodt@op.ac.nz
For previous issues and author guidelines and malpractice statement please see www.thescopes.org.
For more information on the details of the call, formats accepted, and more information please contact the Editor for the journal.
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Moana Nui Festival (March 21 2024)
Don't miss the Moana Nui Festival at Forsyth Barr Stadium, this Saturday March 23rd!
Presented by Pacific Trust Otago , this event brings Dunedin's vibrant Pacific communities together to share music, dance, workshops, and cuisine with Ōtepoti and the wider region.
Bring the whole family - we’ll see you there!
23rd March, 10.30am to 4.30pm
Forsyth Barr Stadium – koha entry
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Research Honours Aotearoa - call for nominations (March 20 2024)
Royal Society Research Honours Aotearoa awards
Nominations are invited from researchers to be considered for medals and awards of the 2024 Research Honours Aotearoa, and to recognise the excellent research undertaken in New Zealand.
Details of the medals, awards and research opportunities can be found here (https://www.royalsociety.org.nz/news/research-honours-aotearoa-2024-call-for-nominations)
A web portal has been set up to receive nominations for medals and awards.
The closing date for nominations and applications is 31 March 2024.
Please email academy@royalsociety.org.nz if you wish to submit a nomination and you will be provided with a URL to access an individual web based application form.
As in the past, the Society’s Academy is keen to receive nominations from under-represented groups, particularly with respect to gender, ethnicity and employment context.
An invitation to researchers from
Dr Marc Rands
Kaiwhakahaere Pūmātauranga | Academy Executive Officer, Royal Society
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Payroll processing timelines - Pay period 2 April (March 19 2024)
Due to the significant impact of the public holidays occurring in this pay period we have revised our payroll deadlines.
Our cut off for processing is 10.30am Tuesday 26 March
This includes:
Timesheets: entered and approved in ME@OP
Staff reimbursements: entered and approved in Webexpenses
Signed employment agreements and variations returned to payrollWe will be closing payroll on the morning of Thursday 28/3 with payment scheduled as usual for Tuesday 2/4
Thank you for your assistance, if you have any queries, please feel free to email or call me
Alex -
Celebrating Women in Tertiary Education (March 18 2024)
The TEU invite all kaimahi to welcome the TEU’s Te Pou Whirinaki / National Women’s Officer, Bronwyn Larkins, to Ōtepoti Dunedin.
Bronwyn wishes to introduce herself, and share with you the many aspects of the TEU Women’s Officer role, a few short term goals, and updates on the Pay Equity campaign.
Bronwyn will be supported by President Tāngata Māori of the TEU: Hūhana Wātene, and the Vice-Presidents of the TEU’s National Women’s Committee: Siân Halcrow (University of Otago) and Jodi Hawe (Otago Polytechnic | Te Pūkenga).
When: Thursday 11th April, 12pm-2pm
Where: Main Common Room (Adjacent to Union Hall), University of Otago Campus (See map below)
Bronwyn will present TEU Awards for wāhine who have shown exemplary service to the Union and women’s issues.
Lunch and refreshments will be provided.
Please RSVP to: naomi.carvell@teu.ac.nz by the 3rd April 2024, including any dietary requirements, or accessibility needs.
This is a safe space for all, to celebrate women in tertiary education.
For all other enquiries, or further support on how to get to the Main Common Room. please contact TEU Organiser, Jen Jeffery @ jennifer.jeffery@teu.ac.nz -
Tapuae Gym Closed for Public Holidays (March 11 2024)
Tapuae Gym will be closed for the upcoming public holidays:
Monday, 25 March - Otago Anniversary Day CLOSED
Closed Easter Weekend
Friday, 29 March - Easter (Good Friday) CLOSED
Saturday, 20 March - Easter CLOSED
Monday, 1 April - Easter CLOSED
Monday, 2 April - Easter CLOSED
We look forward to seeing either side of these holidays.
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Gown Room open hours this week (March 11 2024)
The Gown Room is open for you to collect your regalia:
Monday 11 March 12 pm - 4 pm
Tuesday 12 March 12 pm - 4 pm
Wednesday 13 March 1 pm - 7 pm
Thursday 14 March 1 pm - 7 pm
Friday 15 March 8 am - 11 am
PLEASE come and pick up your gown as soon as possible, we need the space.
B Block (Old Campus Services prefab), corner Harbour Terrace and St David Street.
Thank you,
Gown Room Team
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Tiriti Educators Community of Practice Gathering (March 6 2024)
Kia ora koutou,
Our next Hui for the Community of Practice will be Monday 18 March in H601 from 12:10 till 12:55 - BYO Kai and Kōrero
It will not be facilitated session - rather an opportunity to connect face to face. An online kōrero will be arranged for a later date.
If you didn't make it to the last hui, you are still welcome to join us!
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Free Digital Learning Event on AI from Qualtrics (March 5 2024)
Did you know that all kaimahi have the privilege of accessing Qualtrics, along with the comprehensive support and services it provides? This is a fantastic resource for enhancing our research, teaching, and administrative processes through advanced survey tools and insightful analytics.
They have recently announced a free digital learning event "Reimagining Human Connections with AI." This free session is scheduled for 4:00 pm on Thursday, 7 March, and promises to offer valuable insights into the integration of artificial intelligence in fostering human connections within professional settings.
Register for this free digital event to learn:
- Practical advice on how to navigate changing customer expectations, complex customer journeys, and shrinking customer spend.
- How to prioritise and where to focus your CX initiatives.
- How to scale up to make sense of vast amounts of unstructured feedback and better predict customer behaviours.
- How to use AI to increase efficiency in your CX program
The Presenters include:
Adam Cheyer (AI pioneer, creator of Apple’s Siri and Samsung’s Bixby AI assistants, and current VP of AI Experience at Airbnb) joins Qualtrics to explore how organisations can form deeper human connections – augmented by AI.
Lisa Khatri (Head of CX Solution Strategy, APJ Qualtrics)
If you would like to register for the event use the link within this page.
Reimagining human experiences with AI | Qualtrics Digital Event
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One left! (February 21 2024)
One left!
Last year we offered for sale artworks by Dylan Gamble from his collection titled “Crossroads: Childish Adult Stuff”.
These were on plinths in the quad since April 2022 and were replaced mid-2023 with a new exhibition by Zac Whiteside.
Three of Dillon’s pieces have found new homes, and there is one little blue house left.
You can view it at Campus Services, S Block.
If you would like this for your home or garden, please contact paula.petley@op.ac.nz
Reserve price $250.
This will not be an auction, first in gets it.
To read more about these sculptures, please see Tuhono story from April 2023, below:
"Crossroads; Childish Adult Stuff"
The latest sculptural installation in Otago Polytechnic’s Four Plinths Project dabbles in the past while pondering the future.
“Crossroads; Childish Adult Stuff” is the title of the project by Dunedin School of Art graduate Dillon Gamble, whose work was officially opened at Otago Polytechnic’s Hub on Thursday, 7 April 2022.
Located in the quad at Otago Polytechnic’s Dunedin Campus, “Crossroads; Childish Adult Stuff (2022)” is the third iteration of the Four Plinths Project, which provides an opportunity for graduates from the Dunedin School of Art to have their work shown in a public setting.
In describing his work, Dillon describes himself as at a crossroads.
“Now that I’ve completed postgraduate study at Otago Polytechnic, I find myself wanting to make art about that idea: ‘Where to next? ‘, Dillon explains.
“Looking back over my last four years of study, I’ve noticed certain themes and styles emerging from my practice – my engagement with the history of Aotearoa and its material legacies, the ‘old stuff’, objects that I, a New Zealander, view with nostalgia and affection.
“Now that I’ve reached the end of my degree, I find myself with time spare to reflect on my choices leading to this point.
“As a child, things felt as if they would be simpler, clearer, and would fit more neatly into my understanding of the world.
“Upon consideration, little has changed about my concern with play; my toys, their meaning, and my experience of them.
“While I now make my own toys, their scaling-up over time has matched my own growth.
“The ‘toys’ I have created represent my own unfocused, yet specific, goals as a recent graduate of the arts.
“I need to get some work, and I probably need somewhere to live. Most definitely I’ll need a car to go places and, most importantly, I’ll be able to get a dog soon.
“These works resulted from my reflections on life and education, ventures I suspect I have shared with many others.”
“Crossroads; Childish Adult Stuff” replaces Bachelor of Fine Arts graduate Richard Budd’s installation, “Four Daves”, which was preceded by Jenny Hjertquist's ”Four Quarters of the World”, the inaugural commission for Otago Polytechnic’s Four Plinths Project.
Published on 3 Apr 2023 -
Water shut down (February 21 2024)
City Care are doing water main repair work tonight at 8 pm. The expected job may take 1 hour only but it will affect A, D, F, H and G block. Fingers crossed the job goes well and we will have water tomorrow morning !!
Jens (027/6559942)
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Stadium parking unavailable (February 21 2024)
Forsyth Barr Stadium parking will be unavailable from 27 Feb - 8 March due to the Pink concert.
We apologise for the inconvenience as we know this is a busy time of the year!
Stadium parking is provided by Dunedin Venues but it unavailable when there is a large event held at the stadium.
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Smart Sustainable Development Conference 2024 (February 13 2024)
Smart Sustainable Development Conference 2024 - this Wednesday 4 pm
Posted on behalf of the Smart Sustainable Development 2024 Organising committee:
Dear colleagues
You are cordially invited to attend the online Smart Sustainable Development 2024 conference (https://www.smartsust.org) on 14 February from 4:00 PM to 7:45 PM (NZT).
The event promises an engaging agenda, featuring the opening speech by the President of the United Nations Association of New Zealand, two insightful keynote addresses, five compelling research presentations, and nine innovative projects competing for three prestigious awards.
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Day: 14 February, 2024
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Time: 4:00 - 7.30 PM (NZT)
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Mode: Online
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Join via this Teams link
The detailed program is accessible here: https://www.smartsust.org/program
We encourage you to participate in this free and exciting event. Kindly extend this invitation to your colleagues and students.
We look forward to your valuable presence at the Smart Sustainable Development 2024 conference.
Best regards,
Organising Committee - SSD 2024
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Internet Outage: 13th February (February 9 2024)
There will be a series of brief internet outages across all campuses on Tuesday 13th February between 5pm and 5:30pm.
These outages will allow for required updates to be applied to networking equipment.
We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.
Regards,
ISS
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Link to join today's Staff Day (February 8 2024)
Kia ora koutou,
A reminder for those staff not on Campus today, the link to join the Staff Day presentation is: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0DyNw9DpoLU&ab
For Dunedin based staff we will see you in the Hub, seated please, by 09:55 am. Lunch will follow in Manaaki at midday. For out of town kaimahi - you can get reimbursement for a lunch (up to $15) through Webexpenses.
See you soon!
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Bicultural competency programme starting next week (February 7 2024)
We have two Kaimahi cohorts running for 2024 - Starting next week...
Onsite and Distance.
You can head to the link below and sign up selecting either TP online or TP Dunedin onsite cohorts.
This programme is structured to make it easy to complete within the full academic year to graduate March 2025.
The programme consists of the following four modules.
- Tikanga - 4 x 1-hour online lunchtime sessions.
Local delivery - 13/02, 14/02, 20/02 and 21/02
Distance - 12/02, 15/02, 19/02 and 22/02
- Te Reo - 4 x 1-hour online lunchtime sessions.
Local delivery - 30/04, 01/05, 07/05 and 08/05
Distance - 29/04, 02/05, 06/05 and 09/05
- Te Tiriti - 2 x 2-day workshop, if you have already completed as part of your Kaimahi induction - we will RPL you for this paper so no need to repeat.
- Reflections - 4 x 1-hour online lunchtime sessions.
Onsite and Distance to complete sessions together via teams - 27/08, 28/08, 03/09 and 04/09
If you have already completed part of the Certificate, please enrol for next year and we can RPL you for the papers already completed.
We are happy to answer any questions you might have bicultural.competency@op.ac.nz
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Short staff at Eden Cafe today (February 5 2024)
Due to unexpected staff illnesses, Eden Cafe is currently operating with limited staffing today. We appreciate your understanding. The sweets cabinet and coffee services are still available. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.
Mark and the team.
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Countdown - One-card disposal (February 2 2024)
Countdown one-card is being replaced very soon therefore they will need to be disposed of.
SO don't throw your old Countdown one-card to the rubbish.
Take it into any Countdown and they will send it to TerraCycle for recycling.
Easy as!!!!
https://www.terracycle.com/en-NZ/brigades/onecard-nz
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Student Support Introductions and Workshops (January 31 2024)
Student Support Introductions
Student Success would like to come to your classes to introduce the Support Services we offer to new and returning ākonga.
Please select 'Warm Welcome' from the link below in the first few weeks of study (This is a brief overview of all support services by the Student Advisors)
Click here to book a warm welcome
Workshops available
There is a range of workshops designed to support learners throughout their study journey.
Please see table below for a general outline and how to book a workshop for your class.
Support Service
Workshops available
Contact / Book here
Academic support
Learning advisors provide learning support services to all enrolled students. These services include:
- one-on-one and small group appointments
- academic support for distance students
- evening appointments available (online)
Workshops are available on a range of academic skills. Lecturers can request tailored workshops for specific assessment tasks and needs. Some examples:
- Learning well (general study and time management skills)
- Planning for assignments/unpacking assignments
- Tips for research
- Academic writing skills, including paraphrasing and writing essays
- Referencing
- Preparing for exams
- Preparing for presentations
- Intro to Zotero
Kristen Bracey, Marje Schaddelee, Ross Gilbertson, Sarah Wood
Career support
Career Practitioners can support learners around making informed decisions when choosing a career, study pathways, job applications, CV’s & interviews, or any other career-related topic! We take a holistic approach to career guidance. Reflecting on what is important to the learner will help them to decide on the next step towards their career goals
Employability workshops include:
- CV and cover letter workshop (1hr)
- Interview skills. Preparation and mock interviews (1hr)
Patricia Quensell, Khyla Johnston, Wayne Green
Wellbeing support
Wellbeing support is for any OP student who feels they are challenged by emotional, work/home life, relationships – or any other stress that is impacting on their study and wellbeing. Student Success offers a range of workshops aimed at assisting students with their wellbeing.
During the workshop, participants will develop tools that will aid their wellbeing.
- Support for managing your ongoing mental health
- Support with the unexpected
- Managing balance (study/life balance/routines)
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Cert in Bicultural Competency intake - 2024 (January 22 2024)
Thinking of studying the Certificate in Bicultural competency?
We have two Kaimahi cohorts running for 2024 -
Onsite and Distance.
You can head to the link below and sign up selecting either TP online or TP Dunedin onsite cohorts.
This programme is structured to make it easy to complete within the full academic year to graduate March 2025.
The programme consists of the following four modules.
- Tikanga - 4 x 1-hour online lunchtime sessions.
Local delivery - 13/02, 14/02, 20/02 and 21/02
Distance - 12/02, 15/02, 19/02 and 22/02
- Te Reo - 4 x 1-hour online lunchtime sessions.
Local delivery - 30/04, 01/05, 07/05 and 08/05
Distance - 29/04, 02/05, 06/05 and 09/05
- Te Tiriti - 2 x 2-day workshop, if you have already completed as part of your Kaimahi induction - we will RPL you for this paper so no need to repeat.
- Reflections - 4 x 1-hour online lunchtime sessions.
Onsite and Distance to complete sessions together via teams - 27/08, 28/08, 03/09 and 04/09
If you have already completed part of the Certificate, please enrol for next year and we can RPL you for the papers already completed.
We are happy to answer any questions you might have bicultural.competency@op.ac.nz
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Updated Te Pūkenga Delegations policy (January 18 2024)
Please note that the Delegations policy has been updated and can be found here: Issue 27 | December 2023 | Te Pūkenga – New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology (xn--tepkenga-szb.ac.nz)
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OP Press Publications Launch (January 18 2024)
Otago Polytechnic Press had a busy year last year, celebrated with an official publications launch on 28 November 2023. The event was attended by researchers, authors, editorial and design staff, and the many people involved in creating these works.
Along with our established research journals Scopes, Junctures and Rere Āwhio, we also published three books, several research reports and various catalogues. See below with links to most items.
Our journals 2023
Rere Āwhio - Journal of Applied Research & Practice - 3
Launched at AIC Campus in November, with guest speaker Leoni Schmidt. The editors for Issue 3 were Lorraine Skelton, Bing Dai, and Bruno Balducci, with support from Patricia Ostate as Editorial Liaison.Scope: Contemporary Research Topics (Work-based Learning) Issue 5 Chief Editor: Dr Henk Roodt
Scope: Contemporary Research Topics (Learning and Teaching) Issue 12 Chief Editor: Trish Chaplin-Cheyne
Scope: Contemporary Research Topics (Health and Wellbeing) Issue 8 Chief Editor: Professor Jean Ross
Scope: Contemporary Research Topics (Art and Design) Issues 24 and 25 Chief Editor: Professor Jane Venis
Associate Professor Martin Andrew is the series editor of the Scopes journals.
Junctures - The Journal for Thematic Dialogue Editors: Federico Freschi and Scott Klenner
Issue 23 (2023) - "inter-"
In an increasingly polarised world, what is to be gained by looking anew at the spaces in-between entrenched oppositions? What alternatives can be imagined through an exploration of the spaces in-between constructs, whether disciplinary, philosophical, critical, artistic, social, political, cultural, or otherwise? What implicitly democratising and enabling impulses are at play in the fluid spaces between fixed meanings or suppositions?. Published: 2023-11-09Books
We published three books whose authors are all from the Dunedin School of Art.
- Michele Beevors - 'Anatomy Lessons'
- Pam McKinlay - 'Tiakina te āngi | Protect the air'
- Rachel Hope Allan - 'Slippery Paths & Heart-shaped Baths'
Research ReportsThese reports concluded research projects supported by funding from the Health Research Council.
"Warming the Whare" (Sally Baddock and Suzanne Miller with collaborators).
This was an 18 month research project to explore ways to provide inclusive and affirming care for trans, non-binary and takatāpui people as they engage with perinatal services. Sally Baddock and Suzanne Miller were part of the research team. The report includes practice guidelines for health professionals and was launched in parliament in July where it was symbolically passed to the Ministry of Health Aotearoa. Since publication this report has been read online more than 1600 times and downloaded 152 times.“We hear you” (Ema Tokolahi with collaborators)
This was a research project into understanding the rangahau priorities for Whakaora Ngangahau in Waikato.OP-hosted Symposia
Teaching Excellence Symposium - organised by Claire Goode, Colin Armstrong, Amy Benians, Rhina Chan, Amber Paterson and Ana Terry.
Neuroability Symposium - organised by Rachel van Gorp and Stella Lange. Supported by Ako Aotearoa.
Conferences and ExhibitionsInternational Federation of Fashion Technology Institutes Conference, only the second time this has been held in the southern hemisphere. Organised by Margo Barton, Caroline Terpstra and Amber Bridgman.
Tracy Kennedy and Tania Allan Ross curated the accompanying 'Whakapapa, Ancestry and Contemporary Fashion Practice' exhibition and catalogue.
We have also published catalogues for exhibitions by Dunedin School of Art researchers.
Relevant Research e-zine
In May 2023 we met with colleagues from SIT and Ara to explore closer collaboration as Rohe 4. One of the initiatives was to pivot this magazine to a regional OPSITARA publication to include stories about research from SIT and Ara as well as Otago Polytechnic. We look forward to bringing you stories from the wider region in 2024.
Add your work to our publications this year
The call for papers for 2024 Scope publications has gone out: Closes 30 April, 2024.
Art & Design 26 and 27
Health and Wellbeing 9
Learning and Teaching 13 and 14
Work Based Learning 6 -
Hot water repair in H and G block (January 17 2024)
We are doing some urgent repairs to our domestic hot water system sp unfortunately the hot water for H and G block will be off this Friday (19 Jan).
On Friday morning, we need to drain the system. This will involve water running down the wall on H block Forth street.
If you have any questions, please call Campus Services directly or Jens on 0276559942.
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Staff Day 2024 (January 12 2024)
Kia ora!
We trust you have had a great festive season and some well deserved rest. We acknowledge the end of 2023 was hectic for everyone. This meant some plans had been delayed as we awaited announcements. These plans included preparing for Staff Day, Staff Excellence Awards and Long Service Awards. So whilst announcing these later than normal, we are still going ahead with all events albeit slightly altered to normal formatting.
Staff Day
We will come together on Thursday, 08 February 2024 at 10:00 am in The Hub.
Te Kāhui Manukura will take the opportunity to outline everything they know so far, how we will approach 2024 in order to support our kaimahi and ākonga as we navigate our way through the year. It is a great chance to meet the team and ask pātai.
We will follow this hui with the sharing of kai as we have always done. A calendar invite will be sent confirming the date and time.
Staff Excellence Awards
Normally a call would have been made in September for nominations but a number of factors meant this did not happen. It is intended to call for nominations at the end of February with the intention of holding a celebration in May (date to be confirmed). Please note that due to our financial constraints, we are unable to offer any financial reward with these now but will honour each recipient with the trophy and the public accolade that acknowledges that individuals contribution to our community and mahi. More information will be posted on Tūhono in the coming weeks.
Long Service Awards
We will celebrate long service alongside the Staff Excellence awards. Similarly, we are no longer able to offer a financial reward but continue to honour and celebrate each individual's contribution.
We know this isn't our usual format, but these aren't normal times. We are agile and adaptable and we will provide the best experience for our ākonga as we always have.
Ehara taku toa i te toa takitahi, engari he toa takitani | My strength is not that of an individual but that of a collective.
Megan and Te Kāhui Manukura
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Cert in Bicultural Competency - Intakes start Feb. (January 11 2024)
Thinking of studying the Certificate in Bicultural competency?
We have two Kaimahi cohorts running for 2024 -
Onsite and Distance.
You can head to the link below and sign up selecting either TP online or TP Dunedin onsite cohorts.
This programme is structured to make it easy to complete within the full academic year to graduate March 2025.
The programme consists of the following four modules.
- Tikanga - 4 x 1-hour online lunchtime sessions.
Local delivery - 13/02, 14/02, 20/02 and 21/02
Distance - 12/02, 15/02, 19/02 and 22/02
- Te Reo - 4 x 1-hour online lunchtime sessions.
Local delivery - 30/04, 01/05, 07/05 and 08/05
Distance - 29/04, 02/05, 06/05 and 09/05
- Te Tiriti - 2 x 2-day workshop, if you have already completed as part of your Kaimahi induction - we will RPL you for this paper so no need to repeat.
- Reflections - 4 x 1-hour online lunchtime sessions.
Onsite and Distance to complete sessions together via teams - 27/08, 28/08, 03/09 and 04/09
If you have already completed part of the Certificate, please enrol for next year and we can RPL you for the papers already completed.
We are happy to answer any questions you might have bicultural.competency@op.ac.nz
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Attention all OP car owners! (December 14 2023)
The Automotive department here at Otago Poly will once again be running workshops on a host of vehicle servicing criteria in 2024 and our students will require vehicles for training.
Systems we will be offering our services on for the first Semester include:
Engine servicing. Including oil and filter changing, Cooling system checking and coolant flushing and changing, Intake system inspection and filter replacement, Code scanning,
Brakes. Including fluid checking and changing, Inspection of all friction components, Hand brake adjustments, Brake machining where practical.
Steering and Suspensions. Including all Steering equipment. Rack ends and Tie rod ends, Rack boots, Steering adjustments, Power steering fluid checking and changing, Wheel alignment.
Driveline servicing. This subject covers Transmission servicing, Drive shafts including CV Joints and boot replacement. Universal joint greasing and replacement, Final drive oil checking and changing. Oil leak repairs where practical.
In the second Semester we will be offering:
Starting and Charging systems. In this course we will be testing charging rates, Starter current draw, Drive belt replacement, Battery testing
Engine Tuning. This is a subject better suited to the older vehicles that did not tune themselves. However, should you have a late model vehicle that is not running very well, we will be happy to take a look at it for you.
Ventilation system servicing. Pollen filter checking and replacement, Heater system testing Including Air Con testing and heater core flushing where practical.
If you have a vehicle that could do with some TLC in any of these areas, be sure and keep an eye out for our adverts on Tuhono next year.
All consumables will be at owners cost and a nominal labour charge will apply in some cases. Bookings essential.
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Tiriti Educators Community Of Practice Survey (December 11 2023)
Waiho i te toipoto, kaua i te toiroa
Let us keep close together, not wide apart
This whakatauki speaks to the importance of keeping connected, of maintaining relationships and dialogue so that we can keep moving forward together. It could be used when sharing information about community events or projects that bring people together.Kia ora! You may have come along or wanted to come along to the initial Tiriti Educators interest in a Community of Practice earlier in the year. If you are teaching in this area, and you are interested in this - here is a quick survey to help you articulate what you would like from a Tiriti Educators Community of Practice. There is an indicative date of 14 Feb to 'share the aroha' for the day and the mahi - to meet and kōrero. Merry everything and Happy always - Rachel Dibble and Kerryn Carson.
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Please close Finance One by 10am, Friday 22 Dec (December 8 2023)
Please be out of Finance One by 10am on Friday 22 December 2023 to allow the Finance Team to close off for the year.
Thank you
Your favourite Finance Team!
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Cert in Bicultural Competency 2024 Kaimahi cohorts (December 4 2023)
Thinking of studying the Certificate in Bicultural competency?
We have two Kaimahi cohorts running for 2024 -
Onsite and Distance.
You can head to the link below and sign up selecting either TP online or TP Dunedin onsite cohorts.
This programme is structured to make it easy to complete within the full academic year to graduate March 2025.
The programme consists of the following four modules.
- Tikanga - 4 x 1-hour online lunchtime sessions.
Local delivery - 13/02, 14/02, 20/02 and 21/02
Distance - 12/02, 15/02, 19/02 and 22/02
- Te Reo - 4 x 1-hour online lunchtime sessions.
Local delivery - 30/04, 01/05, 07/05 and 08/05
Distance - 29/04, 02/05, 06/05 and 09/05
- Te Tiriti - 2 x 2-day workshop, if you have already completed as part of your Kaimahi induction - we will RPL you for this paper so no need to repeat.
- Reflections - 4 x 1-hour online lunchtime sessions.
Onsite and Distance to complete sessions together via teams - 27/08, 28/08, 03/09 and 04/09
If you have already completed part of the Certificate, please enrol for next year and we can RPL you for the papers already completed.
We are happy to answer any questions you might have bicultural.competency@op.ac.nz
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ISS Annual Maintenance Period Dec 18 - Jan 5 (November 30 2023)
Kia Ora
We have planned to undertake our annual maintenance period from the 18th of December through to the 5th of January. As with previous years during this time there may be periods of instability or outage. Nothing should be offline for long, and going by previous years experiences most people don’t notice at all.
Enjoy the break.
ISS
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Relevant Research - November 2023 (November 30 2023)
We were pleased to hear recently that Jamie Smiler has been appointed as the Pounuku Rangahau | Rangahau and Research Director for Te Pūkenga. Jamie is already well known to us through the Rangahau Research Forum and Rangahau Māori Forum. Te Pūkenga senior management have affirmed that the organisation will be participating in the Performance Based Research Fund's Quality Evaluation round in 2026 which is also good news for research.
This is our last issue for 2023. We hope you have a well-deserved break over the summer and we look forward to touching base with you again in 2024.
Scott Klenner
Tumuaki Rakahau - Director ResearchContents:
- Ko ahau te awa, ko te awa ko ahau (I am the river, the river is me) (Rani Fernandez, Karen Luttrell, and Seethal Sivarajan, SIT)
- Dogs in Tonga (Kristina Naden, Otago Polytechnic)
- New knowledge: The Dead C. in Europe (Bruce Russell, Ara, and Michael Morley, Otago Polytechnic)
- Outram heritage (undergraduate Communication Design learners)
- Confidence and mastery as mothers (Occupational Therapy postgraduate learner Sorcha Odgers)
- Refugee wellbeing (Raja Subramanian, Ara)
- Women's wiles? (Anita deSoto, Otago Polytechnic)
- Resistance training (Tyson Huia, Ara, also Otago Polytechnic Master of Applied Science learner)
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Reminder: Central Campus Beer & Wine Sales for Christmas (December 13 2023)
We are taking orders if you wish to purchase beer and wine for Christmas.
If you would like to make an order please email - central@op.ac.nz
Final orders to be in by Friday 15 December. We will have your orders at Campus Service available to collect on Tuesday 19 December.
You will be invoiced for your order on the 15 December.Please see our available options below:
6 Pack 330ml Cans $24
- Vienna Lager
- Pilsner
- Pale Ale
- Cider
- Mixed 6pk (Vienna Lager, Pale Ale & Pilsner)
4 Pack 440ml Cans $24
- Scotch Ale
- Dunkelweizen
- Czech Dark Lager
- Oatmeal Stout
- Mixed 4 pack (Scotch Ale, Dunkelweizen, Czech & Stout)Wine
2020 Chardonnay $18
2020 Pinot Noir $20 -
Research team resignations (November 21 2023)
It is with real sadness that the Rakahau, Research and Postgraduate Directorate will be farewelling several staff at the end of this year.
Jenny Aimers is retiring after 21 years, having started as the Research Office's first employee wholly dedicated to research support. Lesley Brooks’ decision has been more sudden – after 9 years with the Research Office, she is taking up an exciting opportunity to work on external grant applications for the University of Otago. Through a commitment and passion for research, Jenny and Lesley have contributed greatly to strengthening OP’s research position across New Zealand’s wider polytechnic network.
Jenny and Lesley would like to thank the Research and Postgraduate team for their collegiality, which they say has supported them both professionally and personally. They also thank the many people in the wider Polytechnic whānau who they have worked with over the years, both agreeing that Otago Polytechnic has been a fantastic community in which to work.
William Early has worked across several roles in his 11 years at OP mostly as a technician at EPICentre. William’s expertise and commitment has contributed to the success of many students, and he will be a notable loss to the EPICentre team. William is moving to the North Island.
The team are in the process of looking closely at the range of support Jenny, Lesley and William provide and identifying how best to ensure this continues. We have good processes in place but as the team moves through this transition, staff are encouraged to use the generic email researchoutputs@op.ac.nz for queries or contact me directly.
On behalf of the Rakahau, Research and Postgraduate office, I would like to thank Jenny, Lesley and William for all they have contributed to the research culture at Otago Polytechnic and to wish them the very best for their next adventure.
Kā mihi mahana ki a koutou.
Scott Klenner
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2024 - Certificate in Bicultural Competency (November 2 2023)
Thinking of studying the Certificate in Bicultural competency?
We have two Kaimahi cohorts running for 2024 -
Onsite and Distance.
You can head to the link below and sign up selecting either TP online or TP Dunedin onsite cohorts.
This programme is structured to make it easy to complete within the full academic year to graduate March 2025.
The programme consists of the following four modules.
- Tikanga - 4 x 1-hour online lunchtime sessions.
Local delivery - 13/02, 14/02, 20/02 and 21/02
Distance - 12/02, 15/02, 19/02 and 22/02
- Te Reo - 4 x 1-hour online lunchtime sessions.
Local delivery - 30/04, 01/05, 07/05 and 08/05
Distance - 29/04, 02/05, 06/05 and 09/05
- Te Tiriti - 2 x 2-day workshop, if you have already completed as part of your Kaimahi induction - we will RPL you for this paper so no need to repeat.
- Reflections - 4 x 1-hour online lunchtime sessions.
Onsite and Distance to complete sessions together via teams - 27/08, 28/08, 03/09 and 04/09
If you have already completed part of the Certificate, please enrol for next year and we can RPL you for the papers already completed.
We are happy to answer any questions you might have bicultural.competency@op.ac.nz
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Sculpture graces foyer of He Toki Kai Te Rika (September 18 2023)
He Toki Kai Te Rika, the new multimillion-dollar training facility on our Dunedin Campus, features no shortage of great spaces in which the next generation of ākonga can learn. And one of the most impressive spaces is the foyer, which is graced by a wonderful sculpture.
Created by Māori student Aidan Taira Geraghty (Kai Tahu, Ngāi Tūāhuriri), the sculpture is titled “Punga o te Pō ki te Ao Mārama - Everything Went Black on Both Sides” – comprising a series of wooden forms that represent a waka, with a pounamu anchor.
Otago Polytechnic chose this artwork (exhibited at last year’s Student Showcase) specifically for He Toki Kai Te Rika.
"My art practice draws on a bicultural narrative, as I attempt to visualise the feeling of displacement felt by generations of Tākata Whenua through a contemporary medium,” Aidan explains.
“Predominantly utilising recycled materials from an urban environment, I breathe new life into discarded objects with a prior austere, colonial objective (railway sleepers, school desks, farming materials).
“These objects take on sculptural forms that invite viewers to look at these materials in a new light, to ponder on the potential beauty that can evolve from a negative connotation.
“Blackened with tattoo ink, sleepers take on the form of Taurapa, Tauihu and Parata. Choreographed into two groups, these forms represent different generations of Māori.
“One group is adorned with anti-establishment markings of the 21st century, graffiti and traditional (sailor) tattooing. The other evokes that of an earlier generation, inviting these new(er) forms into the conversation of what it means to have a bicultural identity.”
Tours on offer
Otago Polytechnic kaimahi will get the chance to join two tours of He Toki Kai Te Rika next week:
· Tuesday 26 September, 11am
· Thursday 28 September, 2pm
Those interested in either tour are asked to assemble in the Quad.
For more details about He Toki Kai Te Rika, visit
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Liam finalist in Green Gown Awards (September 18 2023)
Otago Polytechnic | Te Pūkenga “compost master” Liam Hoffman has been named a finalist in the prestigious 2023 Green Gown Awards Australasia.
Liam is a finalist in the “Sustainability Champion – Staff” category, one of 10 sections within the awards, for which there are a total of 36 finalists from 22 institutions.
From advancing renewable energy and carbon reduction strategies to promoting biodiversity conservation and social justice, the finalists embody the spirit of sustainability, creativity, and collaboration.
Liam (whose official job title is Resource Recovery Assistant) manages Pōpopo, a large-scale composting hub on Union St East, Dunedin.
“Pōpopo is the only large-scale composting hub in the New Zealand tertiary sector which recycles all of the food waste produced by our on-campus facilities. This include our culinary school, student residences, staff common rooms, cafes, and campus organics bins,” Liam explains.
“This food waste is combined with our compostable packaging and gardening waste to produce nutrient-rich compost and vermicompost (worm castings), which is used to feed the various food gardens and permaculture beds we have on campus. These in turn produce free organic foodstuffs for any staff and students that want or need fresh, locally grown produce.”
Data shows the benefits of Liam’s efforts and expertise. In 2023:
· 4574kg of food waste was diverted from landfill
· 32kg of plastic contaminants was removed and recycled
· 1713kg of off-site food waste was diverted from landfill
· 18.7cu m of compost was produced
· 44.8kg of vermicompost was produced
· 77 people participated in workshops and tours
“The most important thing to note is the figures above are part of a larger integrative system that aims to close the loop on organic waste and convert landfill into nutritious inputs for the many gardens and food production areas that we have on our Dunedin Campus,” Liam says.
“They are all part of a circular economy that saves considerable amounts of money in reducing landfill charges, the costs of offsetting our emissions, and the expense of buying commercial compost from outside sources.”
Ross McDonald, Director Sustainability Otago Polytechnic | Te Pūkenga, says Liam’s recognition as a Green Gown Awards finalist is thoroughly deserved.
“Recycling our organic waste means that we avoid emitting tonnes of highly potent methane. Liam’s work is the equivalent of taking at least 10 internal combustion vehicles off the roads on an annual basis.
“His efforts sit at the unglamorous end of sustainability. He literally is elbow-deep in the food scraps that our cafes, staff and students produce.”
The Green Gown Award winners, including Sustainability Institution of the Year, will be announced on 2 November.
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New Sustainability Project Challenge for kaimahi (September 14 2023)
How would you spend $2500 of our money on sustainability? Submit your idea to the Sustainability Project challenge now.
Otago Polytechnic | Te Pūkenga is calling on kaimahi for project ideas that make a positive contribution to local sustainability. Proposals are invited from Otago Polytechnic individuals or teams interested in seeking funding for an innovative sustainability idea that can deliver results within a 12-month period. There are three amounts of $2,500 available to groups for actionable projects – $2500 each will be given to projects relating to:
- reducing waste
- reducing transport emissions
- enhancing biodiversity
The money that we have available for project funding comes from a flight levy Otago Polytechnic collected in 2022. This amount was roughly equivalent to the carbon-off-setting fees charged by airlines. Collecting this offsetting fee internally allows us to invest this money in projects designed to benefit our local communities and environments the most. We know that the are many people here at Otago Polytechnic who are well-connected to a huge range of good causes and are committed to lightening our burden on the planet. With this in mind, we would like to pass the question to you – what do you think a worthy project would be? We’d love to hear your suggestions.
Project Ideas and submissions
Project submissions should be made as proposals up to three pages in length (it can be less).
Download application form here.
We want to make the process as light as possible and the submission form addresses the basic criteria that will be used to compare applications. These centrally relate to seeking information on:
1) Why the idea is important and what the benefits of its successful implementation will be
2) How the project funds ($2,500) will be spent
3) Who is in the project team and what roles they are likely to play
To facilitate the process of applying, there is a contact person for each of the project categories (waste, travel and biodiversity) who can connect applicants with others interested in the area and keen to develop collaborative ideas. Each contact has played an important part in the OP Sustainability Group where many of these issues are regularly debated.
Contact Persons Waste – Marje Schaddalee - Marje.schaddalee@op.ac.nz
Active transport – Ross Gilbertson - ross.gilbertson@op.ac.nz
Biodiversity – Kath Danaher - Katherine.danaher@op.ac.nz
Review and Approval Process
Submitted projects will be considered by a 4-person panel including the Executive Director, the Director of Sustainability, our Treaty Outcomes Lead, and one other seconded member of the ELT. Once decisions have been made and the successful projects identified, advice and support will be given throughout the project period which will have a 12-month expectation for completion. Some further guidance for those applying is given on the application form itself to help clarify some of the criteria that will be persuasive for the panel.
Timeline
Project proposals can be submitted until Oct 27, 2023. Decisions will be made on projects by mid-November and projects will be activated from that point on. Projects need to be completed within 12 months of the funds being allocated.
Completed proposals and any questions relating to this fund, the application process, or any other issues can be forwarded to the Director-Sustainability at the following address Ross.mcdonald@op.ac.nz.
We’d love to hear your suggestions and look forward to hearing from you!
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Neuroability Symposium 2023 (August 31 2023)
🌟 Exciting News! Registrations are now OPEN 🌈 Join us at the Neuroabilities Symposium on October 12th and 13th, 2023! 🗓️
Whether you are excited to attend on-campus https://tinyurl.com/8yahkdww or prefer to participate virtually https://tinyurl.com/yckj4p4t, the choice is yours!
✨With an impressive line up spanning two dynamic days, there is something for everyone.
Connect with incredible speakers, immerse yourself in interactive workshops, and explore thought-provoking discussion forums.
🧠 This event is all about celebrating uniqueness and fostering inclusivity, and we are thrilled to have the support of Otago Polytechnic |Te Pūkenga & Ako Aotearoa.
Do not miss out—register now and be part of this inspiring journey! 🚀
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Scope journal call for papers 2024 (August 22 2023)
Scope: Contemporary Research Topics is series of peer-reviewed open access journals published annually by Otago Polytechnic Press, Te Pūkenga. For previous issues and author guidelines and malpractice statement please see www.thescopes.org. For more information on the details of the call, formats accepted etc please contact the Editor for the journal.
ALL SUBMISSIONS CLOSE 30 APRIL 2024 except Our Built Environment which closes 1 December 2023.
Art and Design Issues 26 & 27
The journal Scope (Art & Design) aims to engage discussion on contemporary research in the visual arts and design. It is concerned with views and critical debates surrounding issues of practice, theory, history and their relationships as manifested through the visual and related arts and activities, such as sound, performance, curation, tactile and immersive environments, digital scapes and methodological considerations. With New Zealand and its Pacific neighbours as a backdrop, but not its only stage, Scope (Art & Design) seeks to address the matters which concern contemporary artists and arts enquirers in their environments of practice. ISSN (print): 1177-5653; ISSN (online): 1177-5661.
Submissions to scope.editorial@op.ac.nz
Art & Design 26 Theme: Open
Art & Design 27 (Special Issue Our Built Environment) Theme: Architecture, as a (physical or theoretical) construct, responds to social, cultural, political and environmental conditions that define a particular time and place. This special issue of Scope Art and Design: Our Built Environment, seeks contributions centred around an enquiry into the current state of flux in which we find ourselves, and the ways in which this is manifesting through contemporary, multi-disciplinary practices that engage with land, built form, climate, technology and theory. Special Issue submissions to colleen.fay@op.ac.nz and sarah.mccallum@op.ac.nz
Health and Wellbeing Issue 9
The journal Scope (Health & Wellbeing) aims to engage in multidisciplinary discussion on contemporary research in the landscape of health. It is concerned with views and critical debates surrounding issues of practice, theory, education, history and their relationships as manifested through the written and visual activities, such as original research, commentary, and critical debates concerning contemporary researchers, industry, society and educators in their environments of national and international practice. Scope’s focus is on building a sense of community amongst researchers in New Zealand and the international community.
ISSN (print): 2537-8872; ISSN (online): 2537-8880
Submissions to jean.ross@op.ac.nz
Health and Wellbeing 6 Theme: Health Inequities local/global responses to social, environmental, behavioural, economic and climate concerns.
Learning and Teaching Issues 13 & 14
The journal Scope (Learning and Teaching) is concerned with views, critical debate and reflections on learning and teaching theory and practice. It seeks to address current topical matters in the field of tertiary and vocational education. Its focus is on building a sense of community amongst researchers from an array of New Zealand institutions with the goal of linking with a wider international community.
ISSN: 1179-951X (hardcopy), ISSN: 1178- 9528 (online)
Learning and Teaching Issue 13 Theme: Open. We are interested in a broad range of topics that deal to the opportunities, challenges, concepts and critical thinking that inform contemporary learning and teaching practice in higher education within New Zealand. In particular, contributions that explore experiences, practices and learnings around Neurodiversity and Neurodivergence are welcomed.
Submissions to scope.editorial@op.ac.nz. Please include ‘Scope (Learning and Teaching)’ in the subject line.
Learning and Teaching Special Issue 14 (Teaching Excellence) is concerned with research, critical debate, and reflections on theories and practice of teaching excellence. It seeks to address current thoughts around teaching excellence in the field of tertiary and vocational education, and to contribute to the ongoing conversations around this topic.
Special Issue submissions to Claire.Goode@op.ac.nz
Work-based Learning Issue 6
The journal Scope (Work-based Learning) focuses on contemporary research in assessment of prior learning, learning in, for, and about work, and professional practice. It is concerned with critical debate about practice, theory, and history, and their relationships as manifested in the experiences of learners, practitioners, and researchers in work-based learning and professional practice.
ISSN 2703-6227 (print) ISSN 2703-6235 (online)
Submissions to henk.roodt@op.ac.nz
Work-based Learning 6 Theme: Research in Workplaces in an Age of Disruption. Amidst the rapid changes reshaping our world, we invite you to contribute your valuable insights to explore the dynamic transformations occurring within workplaces. The 2024 issue seeks to understand how social disruption, technological advancements and shifting workforce dynamics are impacting people, their place of work and their resilience.
-
Scope journal call for papers 2024 (August 22 2023)
Scope: Contemporary Research Topics is series of peer-reviewed open access journals published annually by Otago Polytechnic Press, Te Pūkenga. For previous issues and author guidelines and malpractice statement please see www.thescopes.org. For more information on the details of the call, formats accepted etc please contact the Editor for the journal.
ALL SUBMISSIONS CLOSE 30 APRIL 2024 except Our Built Environment which closes 1 December 2023.
Art and Design Issues 26 & 27
The journal Scope (Art & Design) aims to engage discussion on contemporary research in the visual arts and design. It is concerned with views and critical debates surrounding issues of practice, theory, history and their relationships as manifested through the visual and related arts and activities, such as sound, performance, curation, tactile and immersive environments, digital scapes and methodological considerations. With New Zealand and its Pacific neighbours as a backdrop, but not its only stage, Scope (Art & Design) seeks to address the matters which concern contemporary artists and arts enquirers in their environments of practice. ISSN (print): 1177-5653; ISSN (online): 1177-5661.
Submissions to scope.editorial@op.ac.nz
Art & Design 26 Theme: Open
Art & Design 27 (Special Issue Our Built Environment) Theme: Architecture, as a (physical or theoretical) construct, responds to social, cultural, political and environmental conditions that define a particular time and place. This special issue of Scope Art and Design: Our Built Environment, seeks contributions centred around an enquiry into the current state of flux in which we find ourselves, and the ways in which this is manifesting through contemporary, multi-disciplinary practices that engage with land, built form, climate, technology and theory. Special Issue submissions to colleen.fay@op.ac.nz and sarah.mccallum@op.ac.nz
Health and Wellbeing Issue 9
The journal Scope (Health & Wellbeing) aims to engage in multidisciplinary discussion on contemporary research in the landscape of health. It is concerned with views and critical debates surrounding issues of practice, theory, education, history and their relationships as manifested through the written and visual activities, such as original research, commentary, and critical debates concerning contemporary researchers, industry, society and educators in their environments of national and international practice. Scope’s focus is on building a sense of community amongst researchers in New Zealand and the international community.
ISSN (print): 2537-8872; ISSN (online): 2537-8880
Submissions to jean.ross@op.ac.nz
Health and Wellbeing 6 Theme: Health Inequities local/global responses to social, environmental, behavioural, economic and climate concerns.
Learning and Teaching Issues 13 & 14
The journal Scope (Learning and Teaching) is concerned with views, critical debate and reflections on learning and teaching theory and practice. It seeks to address current topical matters in the field of tertiary and vocational education. Its focus is on building a sense of community amongst researchers from an array of New Zealand institutions with the goal of linking with a wider international community.
ISSN: 1179-951X (hardcopy), ISSN: 1178- 9528 (online)
Learning and Teaching Issue 13 Theme: Open. We are interested in a broad range of topics that deal to the opportunities, challenges, concepts and critical thinking that inform contemporary learning and teaching practice in higher education within New Zealand. In particular, contributions that explore experiences, practices and learnings around Neurodiversity and Neurodivergence are welcomed.
Submissions to scope.editorial@op.ac.nz. Please include ‘Scope (Learning and Teaching)’ in the subject line.
Learning and Teaching Special Issue 14 (Teaching Excellence) is concerned with research, critical debate, and reflections on theories and practice of teaching excellence. It seeks to address current thoughts around teaching excellence in the field of tertiary and vocational education, and to contribute to the ongoing conversations around this topic.
Special Issue submissions to Claire.Goode@op.ac.nz
Work-based Learning Issue 6
The journal Scope (Work-based Learning) focuses on contemporary research in assessment of prior learning, learning in, for, and about work, and professional practice. It is concerned with critical debate about practice, theory, and history, and their relationships as manifested in the experiences of learners, practitioners, and researchers in work-based learning and professional practice.
ISSN 2703-6227 (print) ISSN 2703-6235 (online)
Submissions to henk.roodt@op.ac.nz
Work-based Learning 6 Theme: Research in Workplaces in an Age of Disruption. Amidst the rapid changes reshaping our world, we invite you to contribute your valuable insights to explore the dynamic transformations occurring within workplaces. The 2024 issue seeks to understand how social disruption, technological advancements and shifting workforce dynamics are impacting people, their place of work and their resilience.
-
Scope journal call for papers 2024 (August 22 2023)
Scope: Contemporary Research Topics is series of peer-reviewed open access journals published annually by Otago Polytechnic Press, Te Pūkenga. For previous issues and author guidelines and malpractice statement please see www.thescopes.org. For more information on the details of the call, formats accepted etc please contact the Editor for the journal.
ALL SUBMISSIONS CLOSE 30 APRIL 2024 except Our Built Environment which closes 1 December 2023.
Art and Design Issues 26 & 27
The journal Scope (Art & Design) aims to engage discussion on contemporary research in the visual arts and design. It is concerned with views and critical debates surrounding issues of practice, theory, history and their relationships as manifested through the visual and related arts and activities, such as sound, performance, curation, tactile and immersive environments, digital scapes and methodological considerations. With New Zealand and its Pacific neighbours as a backdrop, but not its only stage, Scope (Art & Design) seeks to address the matters which concern contemporary artists and arts enquirers in their environments of practice. ISSN (print): 1177-5653; ISSN (online): 1177-5661.
Submissions to scope.editorial@op.ac.nz
Art & Design 26 Theme: Open
Art & Design 27 (Special Issue Our Built Environment) Theme: Architecture, as a (physical or theoretical) construct, responds to social, cultural, political and environmental conditions that define a particular time and place. This special issue of Scope Art and Design: Our Built Environment, seeks contributions centred around an enquiry into the current state of flux in which we find ourselves, and the ways in which this is manifesting through contemporary, multi-disciplinary practices that engage with land, built form, climate, technology and theory. Special Issue submissions to colleen.fay@op.ac.nz and sarah.mccallum@op.ac.nz
Health and Wellbeing Issue 9
The journal Scope (Health & Wellbeing) aims to engage in multidisciplinary discussion on contemporary research in the landscape of health. It is concerned with views and critical debates surrounding issues of practice, theory, education, history and their relationships as manifested through the written and visual activities, such as original research, commentary, and critical debates concerning contemporary researchers, industry, society and educators in their environments of national and international practice. Scope’s focus is on building a sense of community amongst researchers in New Zealand and the international community.
ISSN (print): 2537-8872; ISSN (online): 2537-8880
Submissions to jean.ross@op.ac.nz
Health and Wellbeing 6 Theme: Health Inequities local/global responses to social, environmental, behavioural, economic and climate concerns.
Learning and Teaching Issues 13 & 14
The journal Scope (Learning and Teaching) is concerned with views, critical debate and reflections on learning and teaching theory and practice. It seeks to address current topical matters in the field of tertiary and vocational education. Its focus is on building a sense of community amongst researchers from an array of New Zealand institutions with the goal of linking with a wider international community.
ISSN: 1179-951X (hardcopy), ISSN: 1178- 9528 (online)
Learning and Teaching Issue 13 Theme: Open. We are interested in a broad range of topics that deal to the opportunities, challenges, concepts and critical thinking that inform contemporary learning and teaching practice in higher education within New Zealand. In particular, contributions that explore experiences, practices and learnings around Neurodiversity and Neurodivergence are welcomed.
Submissions to scope.editorial@op.ac.nz. Please include ‘Scope (Learning and Teaching)’ in the subject line.
Learning and Teaching Special Issue 14 (Teaching Excellence) is concerned with research, critical debate, and reflections on theories and practice of teaching excellence. It seeks to address current thoughts around teaching excellence in the field of tertiary and vocational education, and to contribute to the ongoing conversations around this topic.
Special Issue submissions to Claire.Goode@op.ac.nz
Work-based Learning Issue 6
The journal Scope (Work-based Learning) focuses on contemporary research in assessment of prior learning, learning in, for, and about work, and professional practice. It is concerned with critical debate about practice, theory, and history, and their relationships as manifested in the experiences of learners, practitioners, and researchers in work-based learning and professional practice.
ISSN 2703-6227 (print) ISSN 2703-6235 (online)
Submissions to henk.roodt@op.ac.nz
Work-based Learning 6 Theme: Research in Workplaces in an Age of Disruption. Amidst the rapid changes reshaping our world, we invite you to contribute your valuable insights to explore the dynamic transformations occurring within workplaces. The 2024 issue seeks to understand how social disruption, technological advancements and shifting workforce dynamics are impacting people, their place of work and their resilience.
-
Scope journal call for papers 2024 (August 22 2023)
Scope: Contemporary Research Topics is series of peer-reviewed open access journals published annually by Otago Polytechnic Press, Te Pūkenga. For previous issues and author guidelines and malpractice statement please see www.thescopes.org. For more information on the details of the call, formats accepted etc please contact the Editor for the journal.
ALL SUBMISSIONS CLOSE 30 APRIL 2024 except Our Built Environment which closes 1 December 2023.
Art and Design Issues 26 & 27
The journal Scope (Art & Design) aims to engage discussion on contemporary research in the visual arts and design. It is concerned with views and critical debates surrounding issues of practice, theory, history and their relationships as manifested through the visual and related arts and activities, such as sound, performance, curation, tactile and immersive environments, digital scapes and methodological considerations. With New Zealand and its Pacific neighbours as a backdrop, but not its only stage, Scope (Art & Design) seeks to address the matters which concern contemporary artists and arts enquirers in their environments of practice. ISSN (print): 1177-5653; ISSN (online): 1177-5661.
Submissions to scope.editorial@op.ac.nz
Art & Design 26 Theme: Open
Art & Design 27 (Special Issue Our Built Environment) Theme: Architecture, as a (physical or theoretical) construct, responds to social, cultural, political and environmental conditions that define a particular time and place. This special issue of Scope Art and Design: Our Built Environment, seeks contributions centred around an enquiry into the current state of flux in which we find ourselves, and the ways in which this is manifesting through contemporary, multi-disciplinary practices that engage with land, built form, climate, technology and theory. Special Issue submissions to colleen.fay@op.ac.nz and sarah.mccallum@op.ac.nz
Health and Wellbeing Issue 9
The journal Scope (Health & Wellbeing) aims to engage in multidisciplinary discussion on contemporary research in the landscape of health. It is concerned with views and critical debates surrounding issues of practice, theory, education, history and their relationships as manifested through the written and visual activities, such as original research, commentary, and critical debates concerning contemporary researchers, industry, society and educators in their environments of national and international practice. Scope’s focus is on building a sense of community amongst researchers in New Zealand and the international community.
ISSN (print): 2537-8872; ISSN (online): 2537-8880
Submissions to jean.ross@op.ac.nz
Health and Wellbeing 6 Theme: Health Inequities local/global responses to social, environmental, behavioural, economic and climate concerns.
Learning and Teaching Issues 13 & 14
The journal Scope (Learning and Teaching) is concerned with views, critical debate and reflections on learning and teaching theory and practice. It seeks to address current topical matters in the field of tertiary and vocational education. Its focus is on building a sense of community amongst researchers from an array of New Zealand institutions with the goal of linking with a wider international community.
ISSN: 1179-951X (hardcopy), ISSN: 1178- 9528 (online)
Learning and Teaching Issue 13 Theme: Open. We are interested in a broad range of topics that deal to the opportunities, challenges, concepts and critical thinking that inform contemporary learning and teaching practice in higher education within New Zealand. In particular, contributions that explore experiences, practices and learnings around Neurodiversity and Neurodivergence are welcomed.
Submissions to scope.editorial@op.ac.nz. Please include ‘Scope (Learning and Teaching)’ in the subject line.
Learning and Teaching Special Issue 14 (Teaching Excellence) is concerned with research, critical debate, and reflections on theories and practice of teaching excellence. It seeks to address current thoughts around teaching excellence in the field of tertiary and vocational education, and to contribute to the ongoing conversations around this topic.
Special Issue submissions to Claire.Goode@op.ac.nz
Work-based Learning Issue 6
The journal Scope (Work-based Learning) focuses on contemporary research in assessment of prior learning, learning in, for, and about work, and professional practice. It is concerned with critical debate about practice, theory, and history, and their relationships as manifested in the experiences of learners, practitioners, and researchers in work-based learning and professional practice.
ISSN 2703-6227 (print) ISSN 2703-6235 (online)
Submissions to henk.roodt@op.ac.nz
Work-based Learning 6 Theme: Research in Workplaces in an Age of Disruption. Amidst the rapid changes reshaping our world, we invite you to contribute your valuable insights to explore the dynamic transformations occurring within workplaces. The 2024 issue seeks to understand how social disruption, technological advancements and shifting workforce dynamics are impacting people, their place of work and their resilience.
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OPSITARA Research Symposium Call for papers (June 21 2023)
Kia ora koutou,
Submissions are now open for the 2023 OPSITARA symposium (now the Te Pūkenga Region 4 symposium). This year, SIT is hosting OPSITARA at our Invercargill campus on 30 Nov & 1 Dec. As usual, the event will be free for participants, and we have been encouraged to invite submissions from across Te Pūkenga. The event will primarily be in-person, but pre-recorded presentations are accepted - these will be presented at the symposium and made available online. Creative practice presentations, posters, and short 'five-minute findings' talks are also accepted. Full information about the symposium is available at the following link: https://itpresearch.ac.nz/home/opsitara2023/.To submit an abstract, follow this link: https://cmt3.research.microsoft.com/OPSITARA2023. If you have not submitted to a CMT conference before you will first need to create an account. All submissions will be peer-reviewed; the symposium website linked above has further guidance on submission requirements and processes. Submissions will be open until 25 August, but we encourage early submission to facilitate the review process.
We hope to see many of you in Invercargill at the end of the year. Please forward this message to anyone in your divisions who may be interested in participating.
Ngā mihi,
James & SallyJames Savage
Research Coordinator
+64 3 7488085
James.Savage@sit.ac.nz -
Our 2024 Prospectus is here (April 18 2023)
The new-look 2024 Prospectus is now available online and printed copies will arrive in time for Tertiary Open Days on 7-8 May.
You can find a PDF of the prospectus by visiting op.ac.nz and clicking on Explore > Find a course > 2024 Prospectus.
Or download a copy here (PDF, 7.39MB).
You'll notice the prospectus is not co-branded but has been produced using Te Pūkenga styles and guidelines. This is to ensure it remains relevant throughout 2023 and into 2024.
How do we make the Prospectus?
Te Pūkenga confirmed we would need to produce a prospectus in late January 2023, which is a later kick-off time than usual.
As a result, we contacted all ops coordinators at the start of semester one – a rather inconvenient time for many! – and asked staff to check and update their programme information.
We also kept track of all programme updates throughout 2023/early 2024 and incorporated these known changes. All the changes were checked by Academic Quality.
Our new Design Lead Taryn Ormsby designed the prospectus using Te Pūkenga guidelines and styles. An external contractor proof-read the copy using the new Te Pūkenga written style guide.
The guide is now being printed by Southern Colour Print and will be delivered to campus in early May.
Kā mihi | Thank you
Thank you to all staff for helping us produce this guide at an extremely busy time for everyone.
The prospectus is never perfect – there are always errors. Due to the short timeframe we worked within this year, it is expected there will be some inconsistencies.
But we have worked hard to ensure this document is as accurate as possible, and a fair representation of what we offer here at Otago Polytechnic | Te Pūkenga. We hope it will be a great tool for promoting our services and programmes for the next 12 months.
Aku mihi nui ki a koutou!
-- Sally Conor, Programme Content Coordinator | Marketing, Communications & Engagement team
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Adobe License Expiry warning message (April 17 2023)
Kia ora
We are currently seeing Adobe License Warnings stating our license has expired.
Te Pūkenga has negotiated a new Adobe License for the entire organization.
This means our existing Adobe License has ended and we are in transition waiting for the new Te Pūkenga license to be applied.
ISS are well aware of this issue and are waiting on the new Adobe License to be applied, which is expected to to happen before the 7 day grace period expires.
Please pass this information onto your colleagues.
The IT Service Desk does not need any further cases logged on this issue, and we will be monitoring the situation while we wait for the new Adobe License.
Kind regards
Colin Armstrong
IT Service Desk -
Call for Papers: Scope (Health & Wellbeing) 8, "Connection" (March 29 2023)
Scope: Contemporary Research Topics (Health & Wellbeing) 8, “Connection” (November 2023)
Call for papers for Scope (Health & Wellbeing) 2023. The eighth issue will provide the opportunity for authors to consider, discuss and debate how connection is understood in relation to health and wellbeing.
Connection is about a relationship between two or more things, or groups, or people. We make a connection when we catch our second bus for the journey, pick up the dog lead and see the hound leap excitedly at us, access the internet, or have an ah-ha moment when something we read or hear about connects with something we know. Connection between self and concepts, ideas, and theory is fundamental to learning. Connection underpins collaboration, and it is through collaborative work that boundaries expand, and new understandings emerge. Defined by Brene Brown as “the energy that exists between people when they feel seen, heard, and valued”, connection between people and within communities is fundamental to collective and individual wellbeing. The concept of whakapapa encapsulates the ultimate in connection. Being 'the process of layering one thing upon another' whakapapa helps us understand that there is connection between now and the past, between all people, and between people and the rest of the natural world. Connection is all powerful and all important.
Submissions for Scope (Health & Wellbeing) 8, "Connection", are invited from all disciplines including health such as nursing, occupational therapy, midwifery and sport we also welcome contributions from the arts. Authors are encouraged to explore connection and its relationship with health and wellbeing in any form. Submissions are encouraged from researchers, educators, industry, writers, theorists and historians. Please refer to author guidelines for submissions at https://www.thescopes.org/contributors and to consult online versions for examples. Authors are welcome to contact Editor-in-chief jean.ross@op.ac.nz for discussion, otherwise submissions should be sent in electronic format by 30 June 2023 for review and potential inclusion to Professor Jean Ross (Editor-in-chief) at Te Pūkenga/Otago Polytechnic Ltd | Te Kura Matatini Ki Otago, Private Bag 1910, Dunedin, New Zealand, jean.ross@op.ac.nz.
Peer review forms will be sent to all submitters in due course, with details concerning the possible reworking of documents where relevant. All submitters will be allowed up to two subsequent resubmissions of documents for peer approval. All final decisions concerning publication of submissions will reside with the Editor. Opinions published are those of the authors and not necessarily subscribed to by the Editors or Otago Polytechnic. For further questions about submissions please contact the Editor-in-chief at jean.ross@op.ac.nz.
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Success Story: Lloyd Anthony Aro (December 16 2022)
Student Lloyd Anthony Aro has landed a job as Health and Safety Adviser for a major Auckland infrastructure project after starting out as a cleaner on the site.
Lloyd trained as a nurse back home in the Philippines and then started his career as a site nurse on an infrastructure project in Doha. He knew he preferred to be outdoors and involved with business on an operational level to he soon moved into a health and safety role within the company.
After more than five years in the Middle East, his mother asked him to return to the Philippines and help with the family’s agricultural business. So, for the next six years, he was immersed in the business, dealing with national and international companies and establishing his networks.
Lloyd and his wife thought they were settled and didn’t think they’d go back abroad. That was until their “miracle” healthy baby boy came along. The couple knew they wanted to set a good foundation for their son abroad and chose New Zealand because his wife’s sister was already here.
“I did my research about this country, about the healthcare system, the education, lifestyle,” says Lloyd.
He began his journey by enrolling in OPAIC’s Postgraduate Certificate in Applied Management, which he studied online from the Philippines. This July, he and his family were able to enter New Zealand through a Government border exemption for students. He’s now studying toward a Master of Applied Management on campus.
Lloyd realised he needed a part-time job to sustain his family and jokingly asked a family friend with a cleaning business if she was hiring. She invited him to start the following week.
“I took the opportunity because I knew that everything would just follow,” says Lloyd.
He says people sometimes look down on cleaners in the Philippines but it’s not like that in New Zealand and he never felt ashamed of the work.
“My mindset at that time was, every time I clean, I’m paid by the hour. I thought this first hour is going to be my meal. The second hour will be the meal of my wife.”
Lloyd’s new cleaning job was on the construction site of the Link Alliance Project at Britomart.
“The moment I went inside the site I declared to myself, I’m going to work here, not as a cleaner but on the construction side. I knew I could use my background in safety.”
After a few weeks as a cleaner, Lloyd started expanding his networks by talking to everyone.
He’d say hello to everyone, and he tried to learn some of each of their native languages. He soon started asking if managers were hiring and handing out copies of his CV.
“What I learned is, there will always be rejection. That’s not a reason for you to stop but a reason for you to move forward,” says Lloyd.
He knew he wanted to work full-time over his study break so set a goal of finding a full-time job by December to provide for his family.
The opportunity came along when he heard a Health and Safety Adviser was going away for the summer. He interviewed for the position using tips he learned in his classes and from the Employability Team at OPAIC, and they offered him the job.
He’s now working as a Health and Safety Advisor for the Link Alliance Project in Britomart Station.
Lloyd says he wanted to share his story because he knows it can be difficult for international students to find a job related to their previous experience when they first arrive in New Zealand.
“If it happened to me, of course, it will happen to you as well. You need to persevere. Don’t get discouraged.”
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Design learner has double reason to celebrate (December 15 2022)
As Otago Polytechnic student Stefan Savage-Mason prepares to graduate on Friday 16 December, he has another reason to feel a sense of accomplishment.
The Bachelor of Design (Communication) learner’s final-year project involved creating an art activity, which forms an interesting part of “Ka mua, ka muri: Walking backwards into the future”, the Otago Polytechnic exhibition, which opened at Tūhura, Otago Museum, on Friday 9 December.
“I worked on a stencil kit that will be used as a way of keeping children entertained, get them thinking creatively and also to show the many different career options available based on studying at Otago Polytechnic.”
Putting design theory into practice is a challenge Stefan really enjoys. Therefore he relished the Otago Museum project, which enabled him to work with a real-world client and a complex design brief.
One of the major design challenges Stefan faced was finding the right materials to produce an attractive, durable and sustainable product that would stand up to use over time in a busy museum environment.
“The packaging needed to be child-friendly but also as eco-friendly as possible. I was able to use recycled paper and cardboard. The stencils themselves are thick 4.5mm acrylic, so they will not break easily and also look great.”
Working with other students, instructors, and clients meant Stefan could incorporate feedback along the way to produce the best stencil kit possible.
“They gave me some really good ideas that drastically improved the project from beginning to end.”
Stefan hopes that the job-related stencils will inspire kids to get hands-on with art and to imagine a world of possibilities.
Of course, it means a lot for an up-and-coming designer to be involved with such a notable exhibition, which runs until May 2023.
“I am so happy with the outcome from this project. It’s awesome to have my work in a big venue like the Otago Museum.”
Otago Polytechnic is a division of Te Pūkenga-New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology.
Read more about our Communication Design programmes here
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Rotary scholarship boosts learner’s growth cycle (December 15 2022)
Otago Polytechnic learner Leah Purchase has received a Rotary scholarship aimed at encouraging her into further study and, possibly, a long-term career in the horticulture industry in Central Otago.
Available to horticulture, agriculture, stonemasonry, and turf students studying at Otago Polytechnic’s Central Otago Campus, the $1000 scholarships recognise “a demonstrated commitment to the industry of their choice”.
Leah has been studying the New Zealand Certificate in Horticulture (Fruit Production) through Otago Polytechnic while working fulltime at Akitu vineyard in Wanaka.
The two-year part-time programme is designed for those already working in the fruit production or viticulture industry, and comprises a mix of theory and practical and is largely online, with some block courses.
It utilises the workplace as a setting in which to develop skills and knowledge in soil, water and plant science, along with seasonal tasks, pests, weeds and agrichemicals.
“Leah has transitioned from a really interesting past working in a range of tourism fields to now working in viticulture where she has embraced every opportunity over the past year to develop her knowledge and skills,” says Rachel Petrie, Senior Lecturer in Horticulture and Viticulture.
“Leah as attended many viticulture workshops, has entered the young viticulturist of the year competition and is now a key supervisor/technician in her workplace,” says Rachel, who has also worked in the viticulture industry.
Based in Wanaka, Leah says she was “super excited” to learn of the scholarship.
“It's such a great opportunity. This funding will allow me to look at taking on opportunities in the wine industry to continue building on my education and experience.
“I have spent much of my working life in hospitality, and a fair bit in the fruit industry, with a degree of exposure to horticulture, farming and forestry as well.
“Viticulture has been of interest to me for quite some time, initially during my tertiary studies, but I found 2020 an appropriate time to make the switch across from my hospitality career.
“I see viticulture and the wine industry as a wonderful step sideways, into a space where I can combine skills across my experience, find exciting roles, and personal growth in the form of new knowledge.”
Leah says the Level-4 New Zealand Certificate in Horticulture (Fruit Production) has given her more confidence to tackle real-world jobs in the vineyard.
“Next year will be a year of consolidating knowledge, doing focused work at the vineyard as well as some travel."
She says she has a couple of options in regards how she’ll spend the Rotary scholarship.
One is the Burgundy Exchange, the 25-year-old vintner exchange programme between Central Otago and French region Burgundy, which seeks ways to share knowledge and experience.
Another option is the Women in Wine mentorship programme offered through New Zealand Wine.
“These would be amazing learning experiences,” Leah says.
“I’m very open in terms of my goal. I think they need to be ever changing and evolving, as life is full of surprises.
“At this point, I am happy to continue on my path, saying ‘yes’ to opportunities as they present themselves, and improving what I can offer as a person in order to open doorways.”
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Around 500 to attend Otago Polytechnic graduation (December 14 2022)
Around 500 graduands will attend two Otago Polytechnic’s Graduation ceremonies at the Dunedin Town Hall on Friday, 16 December.
More than 140 learners will graduate in absentia.
“Celebrating and acknowledging learners’ mahi is an important part of the learner journey and a proud moment for whānau, our community and staff,” says Jason Tibble, Executive Director, Otago Polytechnic.
“This will be the last time Otago Polytechnic holds ceremonies in December. As of next year, we are scheduling them in March and September. This decision is based on feedback from a range of stakeholders.
“As our sector changes in an effort to improve outcomes for learners, this week’s Graduation is a timely reminder about why we do what we do – which is to empower people, through education, to improve their lives.”
The two Graduation ceremonies will be held at the Dunedin Town Hall at 12.30pm and 3pm.
Graduands from both ceremonies will march in the same parade, which starts at 11am outside the Otago University Dental School.
The first ceremony includes programmes in Animal Care, Architectural Studies, Automotive Engineering, Applied Management, Carpentry, Construction, Cookery, Culinary Arts, Design, Engineering, Event Management, Horticulture, Information Technology, Veterinary Nursing and Visual Arts.
The second ceremony includes programmes in Apiculture, Applied Science, Beauty Therapy, Business, Early Childhood Education, Foundation Skills, Hairdressing, Health and Wellbeing, Information Technology (work-based), Massage Therapy, Midwifery, Nursing, Occupational Therapy, Professional Practice, Social Services. Sport and Exercise and Tertiary Education.
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Philip Cullen reflects on time at OP (December 13 2022)
Philip Cullen describes himself as an old-school accountant, a practical person who prefers to deal with the facts at hand. Those with budgetary agendas would likely agree with his reflection that he has no issue playing the role of devil’s advocate.
As Philip’s last day at Otago Polytechnic looms on Friday, 16 December, he can reflect on almost two decades of financial stewardship and innovation with no small measure of pride.
“It's hard to summarize 19 years in a couple of lines. I am proud of what Otago Polytechnic as a whole has achieved compared to the rest of the sector.
“I've enjoyed my time here. I’ve always said you have to have fun in your job.
“I've been here a long time. And I've always said you shouldn't be in an organisation more than seven years, that you've done your bit in that time and you can't add too much.
“However, against that, someone that really has experience and knowledge of an organization can connect with others, as well dot the I's and cross the T's much better.”
Philip started as Chief Financial Officer at Otago Polytechnic in mid-2003, about four months before Phil Ker was appointed Chief Executive. At the time, the organisation was technically insolvent. A major building project had gone awry; and it was still reeling from an OP Council-enforced Business Recovery Programme instigated the previous year.
“Getting out of the financial mess of 2002 was interesting,” Philip says.
Under strong financial stewardship, Otago Polytechnic has transformed its performance since those days. Fast forward to 2018: Otago Polytechnic gained the Baldrige-affiliated Performance Excellence Study Award (PESA), a prestigious organisational excellence award of world-class standard – and the first to be awarded to an institution in New Zealand.
“We've done pretty well, really,” Philip says.
“You've got to balance the books. And if you want to spend money, try not to borrow. A lot of accountants are practical people. We deal with reality.
“So, when someone presents an idea to you, perhaps in an effort to get budget allocated, you've got to challenge and play devil's advocate. Yes, it might be a good idea. But if it's only half-implemented, it's likely to fail.”
As a long-serving executive, Philip has led, advised and mentored a range of staff over the years.
“Leadership is about having respect, but not about being liked necessarily,” he says.
“Being a leader also means you have to recognize that each individual has got their own life. And often it's not what's happening at work that creates challenges. One thing I learned really early on here was never assume anything about anyone.”
With retirement comes a change of base for Philip. He and his wife are relocating to Tarras, where they have a property complete with five acres of new landscaping. Still, he assures his OP friends that he’ll visit Dunedin occasionally.
Known for his love of food, wine and gardening, Philip says his retirement plans won’t alter those tastes dramatically.
There will likely be some foreign fare on the menu at some point, too, given his wife Judith is well known for her cooking and travel passions.
“Jude takes tours overseas. She's got three planned next year. Now I'll be able to join her,” Philip says, adding Turkey, France and Australia are on the initial itinerary.
And with two children in Auckland and another in Melbourne (four grandkids in total), the frequent flyer points are likely to accrue.
“We also intend doing some small road trips. We might just decide to head to the West Coast for a few days – just because we can.”
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Otago Polytechnic unveils poutokomanawa to signify journey to date (December 12 2022)
A new poutokomanawa (sculpture) representing past and future was unveiled at Otago Polytechnic’s Dunedin campus on Thursday 8 December.
The poutokomanawa symbolises the poroporoaki (farewell) of Otago Polytechnic’s Māori Strategic Framework and welcomes in Te Pae Tawhiti, Te Tiriti o Waitangi Excellence Framework launched by Te Pūkenga - the New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology, in 2020 and revised this year, with an enhanced version released just last week.
Otago Polytechnic (a business division of Te Pūkenga) takes pride in its partnership with mana whenua (kā papatipu rūnaka ki Araiteuru), which was formalised in a Memorandum of Understanding in 2004 and has been operationalised through a Māori Strategic Framework since 2006.
The ceremony was attended by representatives from Te Pūkenga, Otago Polytechnic, and the wider community, including mana whenua, who have been leading the tikanga and guiding the process.
“The poutokomanawa embodies both mana whenua and mātāwaka on campus. It also represents the future and, in doing so, challenges those who follow to uphold the mahi on which our proud history has been built,” says Megan Pōtiki, Deputy Chief Executive Partnership and Equity, Otago Polytechnic.
“Pou typically denote a border and/or a signal or post. In this context, the poutokomanawa also honours Otago Polytechnic’s history. It aligns with the Ngāi Tahu deity Tāwhaki, who represents mātauranga (knowledge).”
The pou, to be installed at Otago Polytechnic’s quad on Harbour Terrace, has been created by carver Steve Solomon (Kāi Tahu, Te Arawa), with assistance from Jay Davis (Te Ati Haunui-a-Paparangi) and Paora Peipi (Ngāriki Kaiputahi, Tūhoe, Te Aitanga-a-Mahaki, Ngāti Porou, Ngāti Kahungunu).
“Visually, the pou is inspired by the mahau of a wharenui. It has been further informed by the space in which it is situated, the surrounding buildings and prior artworks, but mostly the purpose or the function of what the poutokomanawa symbolises,” Steve explains.
“Unlike an artwork from a Westernised standpoint, the pou doesn’t just reflect myself but represents wider whānau, respective rūnaka and iwi, so I am seeking to honour this opportunity and understand the trust that have been given to me do the best I can.”
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Te Pūkenga unveils enhanced Te Tiriti o Waitangi Excellence Framework (December 12 2022)
Te Pūkenga has released a new, enhanced version of Te Pae Tawhiti —Te Tiriti o Waitangi Excellence Framework document.
The framework provides a structure to enable educational and workplace excellence and equality for Māori.
This new version was developed in response to input from kaimahi and Te Tiriti o Waitangi partners. The goal of the framework is to ensure inclusivity and equity across the entire organisation, to encourage self-reflection, and to learn and grow in our understanding and implementation of the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
The Kaitohutohu Office is leading the way with information and guidance on how Te Pae Tawhiti can be incorporated in our mahi. Keep an eye out for announcements in the new year about information sessions and learning opportunities.
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Jase Tibble appointed Otago Polytechnic Executive Director (December 1 2022)
Otago Polytechnic is excited to announce the appointment of Jason Tibble as Executive Director.
Jason will begin the role on Monday, following the appointment of outgoing Otago Polytechnic Executive Director Dr Megan Gibbons as Deputy Chief Executive Academic Centre and Learning Systems of Te Pūkenga.
“As the Deputy Chief Executive Learner Journey, Jase is known to many staff as well as people outside our organisation,” Dr Gibbons says.
“Jase has excellent strategic thinking, has great community connections and mana.
“I’m confident he will do an excellent job and continue to support and lead the mahi underway at Otago.”
Jason, who took up the role of Manukura Tuarua: Ara Tauira, Deputy Chief Executive Learner Journey at Otago Polytechnic in January 2022, is excited and humbled by the appointment as Executive Director.
“As a former student of Otago Polytechnic, I can honestly say that my experience here as a teenager changed my life forever.
“I attribute this directly to the quality of the people we have working here, their passion and expertise, and the strong connection we have with our local community.
“The challenge in front of us all is to retain the DNA that makes Otago Polytechnic special, while still being able to step positively into our future. It’s a fine balance, but if we hold firm to our aspirations and still provide the space for our people to keep doing what they do best, I think we can do something really special for this region.
“Rather than imposing my own views or ideas, I think the most sensible course of action is to coordinate the expertise that already exists and to shape it in a way that maximises our impact.”
Jason grew up in Dunedin and was previously Regional Commissioner for the Ministry of Social Development and the Regional Public Service Commissioner for all of government in Otago and Southland.
He has worked in New Zealand and Australia in the commercial sector, holding a variety of senior executive positions throughout Australasia.
Jason has contributed to a number of boards and committees and also has a keen interest in sports and music. He was Chairman of New Zealand Rugby League South Island Zone, and is a former Sport Otago trustee. He was chair of the Just Transitions Oversight Group for Southland, is a current director on New Zealand’s Centre of Digital Excellence (CODE), as well as a director on Grow Dunedin, the Dunedin City Council's independent Economic Development Board.
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Te Pūkenga DCE role 'exciting and humbling' (December 1 2022)
Otago Polytechnic Executive Director Dr Megan Gibbons has been appointed Deputy Chief Executive: Academic Centre and Learning Systems of Te Pūkenga.
“This is an exciting opportunity and one I’m humbled to take on,” says Dr Gibbons.
“It means moving from thinking about delivery in Otago to a national, network-wide area of responsibility.
“My role as DCE will focus on ensuring we have the very best programmes and courses that meet the needs of ākonga and their whānau, industry and our communities.
“The academic framework, programmes, research and delivery are areas that I am passionate about and I look forward to the challenge of helping shaping these as we look to improve educational outcomes for all learners in New Zealand.
Dr Gibbons describes her time at Otago Polytechnic over the past 16 years as the “most fun and exciting time” of her career so far.
“The people at Otago Polytechnic are special. They really care for what we do and why we do it. I thank all my colleagues at Otago Polytechnic for enabling me to develop and lead this organisation. It has been a privilege.
“I acknowledge my appointment to this exciting new role raises questions regarding what this means for Otago Polytechnic as we continue to transition to the new network of Te Pūkenga, which includes a strong regional structure and presence.
“From Monday, Jason Tibble will take over as Executive Director of Otago Polytechnic.
“As a Deputy Chief Executive Learner Journey, Jase is known to many staff as well as people outside our organisation.
“I’m confident he will do an excellent job and continue to support and lead the mahi underway at Otago.
“Jase has strong leadership ability. Before coming to Otago Polytechnic early in 2022, he was previously Regional Commissioner for the Ministry of Social Development and the Regional Public Service Commissioner for all of government in Otago and Southland,” Dr Gibbons says.
“While this change may feel sudden, it comes after a number of years of Otago Polytechnic leaning into the opportunities presented by the Reform of Vocational Education. This is another step on the journey.
“This is bittersweet for me – marking my move from Otago Polytechnic and what we have done together for our ākonga, employers and our communities.
“At the same time, I look forward to continuing to work with many staff in my new role – and taking what I’ve learnt to a national scale, where we can have a far greater impact.
“I believe that to effectively lead academics, you need to be an academic. I also believe it is important to have that Southern voice within leadership at Te Pūkenga.”
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Sustainability projects showcased (November 30 2022)
We celebrated sustainable innovation at our inaugural Smart Aotearoa Sustainable Development Awards last night.
The event was organised by a group of people from diverse backgrounds including representatives from OPAIC and Future Skills Academy.
The aim of the initiative was to encourage innovative ideas and projects that can contribute to building a smarter Aotearoa while prioritising the United Nations’ Sustainability Development Goals.
People from a range of sectors submitted projects, research, and ideas for the competitions.
Those who had their work shortlisted had the opportunity to present them at last night’s event at GridAKL in Auckland’s Wynyard Quarter and online.
Presentations covered a broad range of topics from health and wellbeing, to beekeeping, to education and employment pathways for Pacifica people. Presentations were assessed by a panel of judges.
OPAIC’s Bruno Balducci took out the Research and Ideas category of the awards for his work with Dani Mao on tracking learner development in sustainability.
Dr Terri-Anne Berry won the Sustainability Development Goals category for her work around protecting communities from asbestos exposure.
The event brought people from a wide range of sectors together to recognise and celebrate evidence-based smart sustainable developments happening all across Aotearoa New Zealand.
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Game on - CODE expands horizons (November 29 2022)
New Zealand’s game developers will receive an immediate funding boost to help support the growth of local studios beyond the current Dunedin centre.
“New Zealand’s game development sector has been rapidly growing. The latest data from the New Zealand Game Developers Association shows the total revenue for the industry is $407 million, compared to $276 million a year ago,” Minister for the Digital Economy and Communications, David Clark said.
NZGDA 2022 data also shows Otago accounts for a disproportionate number of studios at 26% of New Zealand’s total. Significant growth has been driven by the Centre of Digital Excellence (CODE) in Dunedin.
“I’m pleased to announce that the Government will invest $2.25 million a year until 2027 – with $1 million already allocated this financial year – to expand the CODE programme to other centres."
A 2017 Labour election promise, CODE was established in 2019 to boost the expansion of New Zealand's growing game development ecosystem.
The new funding will help to establish new regional hubs to provide contestable grants and skills development to game development studios across the country.
“We’ve invested in community-led projects across the country to ensure our regions can thrive, grow, and boost local economies,” Minister for Economic and Regional Development, Stuart Nash said.
“We also want to drive innovation and create opportunities in our regions. Expanding CODE across New Zealand should pique the interest of burgeoning game developers, and provide them with a foot in the door,” Stuart Nash said.
“The Government has been working closely with the New Zealand Game Developers Association (NZGDA) on how we can provide more support for this sector. The expansion of CODE is something they have asked for, and we’ve listened,” David Clark said.
“However, I will continue to work with industry and my colleagues around what more we can do to nurture our local talent and keep them on home soil,” David Clark said.
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Christmas Shoebox Project (November 25 2022)
Let’s ensure every child has a happy Christmas!
The Catalytic Foundation runs an annual Christmas Shoebox Project which is super easy to get behind and support.
- Gather your workplace, friends and family together to fill boxes with gifts.
- Order the number of boxes you require. A suggested donation of $10/box covers box and courier costs, or you can pick up boxes from distribution offices. You can also donate $50/box and we will provide a box of special gifts for a child.
- The boxes are to be filled with recommended gifts and labelled with the gender and age of the child to receive the gifts. We arrange the distribution of boxes to a family in need, via our community partners.
Nationwide drop off centres: Auckland (includes Tauranga, Waikato and Northland), Whanganui, Palmerston North, Wellington, Christchurch and Dunedin (includes Southland).
Visit their website for more details and to order gift boxes.
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New Professoriate appointments (November 23 2022)
Following a rigorous application process in late 2022, new members have been welcomed to Otago Polytechnic’s Professoriate - Te Kāhui Ahorangi.
Professors Karole Hogarth and Caro McCaw have been promoted to full professorships. New members are: Associate Professors Martin Andrew, Josie Crawley, Lorna Davies, and Jonathan Lynch.
“These colleagues have proven records of sustained excellence in teaching and learning and research” says Prof Leoni Schmidt, Chair, Professorial Applications Committee.
“Furthermore, they contribute significantly in and beyond Otago Polytechnic to their professions, industries, and communities. Many of them are already playing leading roles in shaping the future of Te Pūkenga.”
We congratulate the promoted full professors and the new members on their well-deserved recognition and look forward to their future leadership.
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City Rail Link visit for students (November 23 2022)
Our Construction Team took students for a site visit to Britomart Station, the construction site for the City Rail Link project, this month.
Mark Lampad who is a BIM expert from The Link Alliance shared his experience of working with software like AutoCAD 3D and BIM. Mark took us on a site tour after a small orientation.
Students experienced the complete design layout for the electrical services, fire protection, plumbing and drainage services.
Students were excited to see the design of services in large volume. They had the opportunity to see the health and safety features provided inside and outside of the site.
Lecturers Srividya Krishnamoorthy and Firas Almughrabi organised the visit by coordinating with Mark and Link Alliance Senior Communications and Engagement Specialist Michelle Parish.
“The entire team was very kind and helped us to take a tour of the site. This project is under the joint venture of Link Alliance and Downer. Staff and students take this opportunity to thank the entire team,” says Srividya.
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Nursing lecturer's work recognised at NZ conference (November 22 2022)
Nursing Senior Lecturer Kerry Davis has been flying the flag for Otago Polytechnic at the recent Intravenous Nursing New Zealand conference.
Held in Christchurch, the conference attracted 165 delegates from New Zealand and abroad.
As well as being involved in judging oral papers, Kerry submitted a poster, “Medication Safety by Design - a deliberate investment in Senior Person's Health”, which won the Best Poster prize.
“The poster was well received with judges commenting that it reflected an ongoing investment in the development of a work-ready future workforce that can positively impact patient outcomes,” Kerry reflects.
Her poster outlined the successful design and delivery of Otago Polytechnic's undergraduate nursing course in senior person’s health, now in its third year.
“One driver for this course was the need to increase the critical thinking skills and knowledge of student nurses, so that they might support better later life through the mitigation of adverse medication events.
Aged care is a complex and rapidly expanding specialty. More than 30% of seniors over the age of 75 are prescribed five or more medications.
“The course prepares future nurses to be capable and courageous practitioners, navigating a rapidly changing landscape of legislative, interprofessional and technological advances,” Kerry explains.
“The course employs learner-centred pedagogy to engage learners with medication safety issues affecting seniors. Experiential learning methods include simulation, empathy scoring, dual coding, guest seniors, roleplay and clinical labs. This preparation then culminates in a clinical placement in an aged residential care (ARC) facility.”
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Exhibition explores Otago Polytechnic’s past and future (November 21 2022)
Otago Polytechnic is celebrating its people, place, history and future in a six-month exhibition at Tūhura Otago Museum from December 2022 to May 2023.
Opening on 9 December, “Ka Mua Ka Muri: Walking Backwards into the Future” will highlight Otago Polytechnic’s contribution to its community through interactive, creative and engaging displays that celebrate its culture, people and successes.
The exhibition will also show how Otago Polytechnic and Te Pūkenga will be intrinsically involved in the future success of our community and share stories of connections to mana whenua, history, outstanding alumni, student success, innovative learning and iconic events.
From beekeeping to beauty, photography to food, and art to architecture, Otago Polytechnic has taught generations of New Zealanders, providing a launching pad for careers, skills, and hobbies.
Ka Mua Ka Muri: Walking Backwards into the Future explores these through hands-on interactive experiences, including a pop-up arcade, featuring video games developed by students this year; a sculpture station; and a selfie station where visitors can use props to create Instagramable backgrounds.
One of New Zealand’s most well-regarded vocational institutions, Otago Polytechnic has a long history, starting in 1870 as the Dunedin Art School.
After many changes in names, locations, and qualifications taught, Otago Polytechnic is changing again. On 1 November 2022, Otago Polytechnic officially transitioned to Te Pūkenga – New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology.
“The exhibition will play an important role to help communicating the upcoming changes for the tertiary training sector, introducing Te Pūkenga and the exciting opportunities it will bring to our wider community,” says Dr Megan Gibbons, Executive Director, Otago Polytechnic.
A series of community programmes and events will also be scheduled throughout the six-month exhibition, such as Master Classes, where consummate professionals teach workshops on skills from art to cookery. Family-fun events are also planned with the Dunedin Wildlife Hospital, as well as the only public update on the hospital rebuild as part of the event programme.
Ka Mua Ka Muri: Walking Backwards into the Future is free and will be open from Friday 9 December 2022 until Sunday 14 May 2023
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Charity House Auction a success (November 21 2022)
Otago Polytechnic’s annual Charity House Auction, held on Saturday 19 November, raised $110,000 for a range of community groups.
Around 50 people attended the 16th Charity House auction at Otago Polytechnic’s Carpentry facility, at which a fully furnished four-bedroom home was sold for $405,000, eclipsing the previous record (set in 2021) of $365,000.
At the conclusion of the bidding process at Otago Polytechnic’s L Block, Dr Megan Gibbons, Otago Polytechnic Executive Director, presented Catalytic Foundation Chair John Gallaher with a cheque for $110,000.
“We are proud to play a part in a project that provides benefits to many others within our community,” Dr Gibbons said.
“The Charity House project exemplifies the applied learning approach that Otago Polytechnic provides, highlighting the skills and work ethic of all the many learners involved, along with the passion and commitment of our teaching staff.”
Catalytic Foundation Chair John Gallaher said the organisation would distribute the proceeds from the sale of the Charity House to small to medium-sized community-based charities.
“The Charity House project has demonstrated the power and impact of individuals and organisations joining together and using their skills to support those in need in their community.
“We would like to thank Otago Polytechnic staff and carpentry students as well as all the local businesses who contributed so generously to the fit-out of the houses. Strong and resilient communities are built from the support of those who ‘can’, helping those in need.”
Charity House sponsors: Active, Allison Carey Architectural Designer, Aotea Electric, Bayley’s Metro, Carpet Court, Design Windows, Dimond Roofing, Dulux, Foleys, Gib, HN Makeovers, Ideal, Kitchens For Less, Mammoth Insulation, McNeilly Heavy Haulage, Mediaworks, Oakleys, Otago Design, Philips, Placemakers, Schneider Electric, Serene Living, Spotless, Timeless, Viridian, Vision, Windsor Brass.
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Industry insights shared (November 18 2022)
Our students enjoyed hearing from a range of speakers including our own alumni at the Applied Management Industry Open Day yesterday.
Our first guest speaker was Ports of Auckland Senior Operations Manager Mick Lander. He took us through his career outlining how he made the move from trades to the New Zealand Police, to the Ministry of Justice, then into his current role.
Lisa Mulligan then talked about her path from retail and HR to her current role as Director of The Culture Ministry. This business offers diversity and inclusion consulting and support services.
Next, Jay McLaren-Harris told us about a career that has taken him around the world. Jay is the Head of Community Engagement at Swivel Careers and Education. He has also worked closely with the Right Honourable Winston Peters.
Finally, we heard from Simon Bridges. Simon’s career has taken him from lawyer to senior politician and Leader of the Opposition. He is now the CEO of Auckland Business Chambers.
The second part of our event was an alumni panel moderated by Employability Manager Dani Mao.
We heard from four Applied Management graduates who have gone on to successful careers in their chosen industries. They were Deepak Khemani, Anastasia Timoshkina, Syed Amaan Kazmi and Rashmi Acharya.
They spoke about some of their best OPAIC memories, how they landed their current jobs, and how what they learned during their student days is helping them in their current roles.
Students had the opportunity to ask our speakers questions and the event was followed by a networking session where guests and students could meet and interact. The event was well attended and enjoyed by students and staff.
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Learner's Collections '22 garments explore fashion obsessions (November 16 2022)
Otago Polytechnic learner Sidney North has travelled from the time of the Incas to more recent fashion obsessions to arrive at her latest collection, which will be on display as part of Student Showcase this week.
The third-year Bachelor of Design (Fashion) learner has been putting the finishing touches to five garments, which will feature alongside others’ work on the catwalk at Collections '22, to be held at Otago Polytechnic’s Hub on Friday 18 November.
“The inspiration for this collection initially came from a gemstone known as the ‘Green Goddess of the Inca’, which was an emerald the size of an Ostrich egg kept in a temple in Colombia,” Sidney explains.
“My theme explores consumers’ obsession with shiny objects, false values placed on clothing and notions of preciousness – and how such notions can corrupt. As an easy example, think of how the Lord of the Rings character Gollum regarded the ring.”
To achieve this, Sidney created five garments with natural, feminine silhouettes. Choosing a base colour of tan and pink, “similar to my skin tone”, she hand-painted additional layers comprising five colours: red for ruby, white for pearl, green for emerald, purple for amethyst and orange for topaz.
But the last, and most important design feature, are beads. These sit on top of the mesh fabric, creating a stark contrast to the muted dye and transparent mesh.
“The beads are rich, dense, and reflective,” Sidney says. “The beading is a direct allusion to gems and jewellery, and are intended as the focal point of the garments.
“The glamour of the beads distract the viewer from the simplicity of the garments’ silhouettes.”
Yet, as Sidney discovered, beading takes a lot of time – and a lot of beads.
“It was definitely challenging. The time it took was intense.
“I’d initially planned to create big spots of beads but, realising how time-consuming that would be, I opted to do fewer of those and introduced veins of beads, which actually make the garments more coherent.
“And although I feel I have created better garments in the past, that wasn’t the goal. The most important outcome was to go outside of my comfort zone.”
The latter point touches on both Sidney’s present situation and, most likely, her future: she is unafraid to push herself.
It’s an ethos that has led her to a job with iconic Dunedin fashion label Nom*D. Currently working part-time as a “sales and dispatch coordinator”, Sidney will take on a fulltime role once she completes her studies this year.
“I have learnt so much in the past few months working with Margi Robertson and her team.
“I think there’s a misconception around fashion, that it’s only about designing. But the industry is really broad and involves a lot more than that.”
Collections '22 - The Hub, Otago Polytechnic 18 Nov (Doors open 7pm; show 8pm). Note: It is a ticketed event. Tickets available online
Find out more about Student Showcase
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Design learner digs beneath the surface (November 15 2022)
Otago Polytechnic learner Best Apisit certainly likes to keep himself busy.
Best is preparing for the “Debrief” exhibition, part of Otago Polytechnic’s Student Showcase, and admits he’s in a race against time to meet yet another deadline.
As he prepares to complete a Graduate Diploma in Design (Communication), Best is putting together a complex installation for Debrief that involves video screens and other design components – all of which capture his experience as an intern with Te Whatu Ora – Southern.
During his internship, Best designed posters, made videos, created logos, and made an infographic of the New Dunedin Hospital’s Outpatient Building.
Best was surprised that his hospital internship also involved dealing with historical objects. He worked with the New Dunedin Hospital project office to create the “Unearthed Ōtakou” exhibition, which showcased some of the items found on the building site.
Best created a video showcasing some of the archaeological finds from the New Dunedin Hospital site, using photographs by fellow intern Tom de Silva and words from New Zealand Heritage Properties. The Unearthed Ōtakou exhibition was displayed in the Dunedin Hospital cafe for staff to see.
All of which fits nicely into the theme for this year’s Debrief – “Beneath the Surface”.
“I didn’t know that underneath the hospital site they’d have some artefacts. It’s interesting that we can learn the history of the people that were here before.
“It’s that sort of thing that really excites me about design – discovering new challenges and ways to communicate.”
Best chose to study at Otago Polytechnic because of the design school’s reputation – but moving from Thailand to Dunedin was a bit of an adjustment.
“I studied design because it’s one of my favourite subjects,” says Best. “I’ve fallen in love with it.”
“Everything in Bangkok is different from Dunedin – the lifestyle, the traffic, the weather, the food, the people. When I came here and I was hungry at midnight, I couldn’t find anything to eat!”
But it’s that lack of hustle and bustle that appeals to Best.
“I like the nature. And the people here are nice.”
As part of the final paper for his Graduate Diploma, Best had to choose between doing his own project, a client project, or an internship.
“I chose the internship because I wanted to have the experience of working with people, and the hospital is a place where I could bring my skill and perspective to help people.”
Best is still considering his options post-graduation. But one thing is certain: “My future path will most definitely involve design. I love it.”
You can experience Best and Tom's work for “Unearthed Ōtakou” here
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A new name for the Student Hub (November 14 2022)
After running a competition amongst our ākonga to find a new name for the Student Hub, a winner has been selected.
Drum roll please…
The new look Student Hub launching in February 2023 will be known as Kāpehu.
Kāpehu means ‘compass’ in Māori.
Gabrielle Knotts, a student from our Level 4 Health Bridging Certificate programme chose the name. This was the reason behind her choice:
“Throughout my experience at the Otago Polytechnic, I have used the Student Hub as my compass. It has steered me to my classes, in the right place and at the right times, it has informed me of any other things I needed or might want to attend.
“It was the link to my email and access to my One Drive, which were monumental assets to my studies. It has offered quick links to find answers to my questions and has held important information that I needed or might have needed.
I have offered Kāpehu instead of The Compass to honour the vast and many heritages that are supported within the Polytechnic, and to embrace one of New Zealand's official languages.
“A compass is an important tool for adventurers, and I feel like tertiary education is definitely an adventure, and it is important to make the most of any available tools.”
We thought this was such a perfect match to the core purpose of the Student Hub.
It’s also a fairly easy word to pronounce for those at the start of their Te Reo journey, is short and snappy, and will work well as a web address.
We’ve sent an email out to all ākonga letting them know about the new name and a $50 grocery voucher is winging its way to Gabrielle.
Work is underway on the development of Kāpehu and we’ll continue to connect with key stakeholders along the way.
If you have any questions or feedback, please email communications@op.ac.nz
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Annual Learner Awards looming (November 9 2022)
As we approach the end of another busy and rewarding year, we want to celebrate the great mahi with our annual Learner Awards.
These awards recognise outstanding learner achievement and are presented at graduation (either 16 December 2022 or 10 March 2023 depending on which ceremony the awardee is attending).
There are three categories:- The Otago Daily Times Award for personal achievement in studies at Otago Polytechnic.
- The Otago Polytechnic Education Foundation Achievement Award for outstanding achievement in exceptional circumstances.
- The Otago Polytechnic Education Foundation Excellence Award for graduating learners who have shown excellence in their field of study.
Nomination criteria
The learner must be enrolled in a full-time programme for at least half the year (0.5EFTS or greater).
Nominations can be made by any learner / group of learners / staff member / group of staff members.
Nominations will close at 1.00pm on Friday 18 November.
How to nominate someone
We’ve set up a quick and easy online form for you to nominate someone. Nominate a Learner
If you have any questions about the nomination criteria, please contact Russell Pilkington-Flinn -
School pupils' imagination on display (November 9 2022)
From a dolls house-type imagining of Kiwi chart-topping band Six60, to a cardboard model of the Dunedin Railway Station, Otago Polytechnic has this week played host to more than 40 imaginative projects developed by school pupils.
The Otākou STEAM Cluster has been running “He Kaitiaki Tātou”, exploring sustainability, Aotearoa history and social and cultural.
Having identified the key themes, project organisers tasked students with exploring these issues and developing prototypes.
Students from four Dunedin schools (years 0-8) have been involved, their efforts culminating in a public exhibition at Otago Polytechnic’s Hub this week.
The young learners were aided by input from Ross McDonald, Otago Polytechnic Director: Sustainability.
“It was great to talk with a wide range of bright kids who were so engaged with sustainability and had such good questions to ask.”
Otākou Steam Cluster organiser Iain Cook-Bonney says the exhibition was the last for the Cluster, bringing to a close four years of collaboration with Otago Polytechnic.
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Head of Department speaks at University (November 8 2022)
Our Head of Department for Information Technology gave a well-received presentation at Massey University recently.
Massey’s Construction Department invited Dr Farhad Mehdipour to give a talk about the Internet-of-Things (IoT) and its applications in construction.
“The purpose of this talk was to discuss different applications and existing challenges of IoT as well as the opportunity for collaboration on multi-disciplinary projects with the Faculty of Construction at Massey University,” says Farhad.
The presentation was delivered in-person and online and participants included students, researchers, and faculty members.
Farhad says the event went well and there were some interesting discussions regarding the topic and ongoing projects.
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Success Story: Rajesh Bilur (November 7 2022)
Rajesh Bilur says OPAIC provided him with technical expertise, soft skills, and tools to get ready to work in his chosen industry.
Rajesh came to New Zealand from Surat, India, fresh out of high school in 2019. He says he’d heard about our incredible beaches, beautiful landscapes, pleasant weather, and multicultural society.
“All this packed into one nation drew my strong interest to explore it.”
Rajesh says he’s always been fascinated by infrastructure projects across the globe and how crucial construction is to human life.
He was excited to learn New Zealand is home to the Southern Hemisphere’s tallest structure – the 300-meter Sky Tower located right here in Auckland and offering amazing views.
“As the construction industry is one of the booming industries in the country, I saw an immense opportunity present in the sector.”
Rajesh started looking for a good education provider and saw that OPAIC was a well-regarded polytechnic offering the Bachelor of Construction (Quantity Surveying).
“This programme had all the learning outcomes that would give me a detailed understanding of the construction industry from a business perspective, and I decided to enrol.”
His classes started during a Covid-19 lockdown period and he was worried it would be difficult to understand such technical courses via online sessions.
“But the OPAIC team made sure the entire process was easy. My tutors helped me a lot, and they made sure I learned well by having different class activities and group chats and giving relevant examples from real life that made learning fun and interesting,” he says.
He soon began to gain confidence and understand his capabilities.
“Thanks to the wonderful teachers I had throughout my time as an OPAIC student, I was able to progress through the learning process with ease.”
As well as providing technical knowledge, OPAIC helped him develop the soft skills required in the construction industry, he says.
“Moreover, OPAIC regularly conducted guest sessions where industry experts and stakeholders were welcome to share their opinions and experiences that provided an understanding of the industry from the perspective of an expert.”
Rajesh got a job as a Junior Quantity Surveyor at a well-recognised Earthworks & Drainage company in Auckland during the last year of his studies.
He says OPAIC assisted him to create his CV and prepare for interviews.
“This helped me to crack my interview and to get on board.”
He was nervous about entering the industry but soon realised all his study had been based on real-life scenarios and examples and he was already familiar with tools used in the industry.
Another aspect of student life that Rajesh enjoyed was the cultural festivals on campus that connected students to people from various cultures, languages, nationalities, and origins.
“During this journey, I have come across good friends from different parts of the world and I will remember them for a lifetime,” he says.
Rajesh’s advice to current and future students is to trust and enjoy the learning process and to get involved in the various activities and workshops offered on campus.
“I would like to thank OPAIC for giving me this wonderful experience and education, I’m taking away some amazing memories and lifelong friends.”
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Sustainability on the agenda at first Green Office conference (October 31 2022)
We heard from a range of experts about the value of sustainability at our first-ever Green Office Toitū conference on Friday evening.
Green Office Movement Coordinator, Maartje Zaal, joined us from the Netherlands, where the Green Office movement began. Maartje gave us an introduction to the global Green Office Movement.
We were also fortunate to hear from Te Pukenga Sustainability Lead, Ehsan Yaeghoobi, who told us about Te Pukenga’s work in the sustainability space and answered questions from guests.
DWI Limited Director and Auckland Institute of Studies President, Dr Lehan Stemmet, then gave an interactive presentation about sustainable mental health.
Lastly, we heard from the Environmental lead for the SkyCity Group, Anthony Thompson, about SkyCity’s sustainability framework for creating a better tomorrow.
A panel of alumni and students made up of Maimiti Manate, Matthew Angelo Tongohan, and Jay Dharmendra Mistry then discussed their sustainability internship experiences at OPAIC.
Maimiti shared that she’s been able to start her own sustainability office at her job. Matthew mentioned that the skills he gained in his internship helped him in his professional journey after graduation.
Jay is still completing his internship and said the experience has given him a renewed appreciation for nature and a passion for protecting it.
The alumni were all proactively involved with the Green Office Toitū during their time at OPAIC.
Employability Service and Event Lead, Christiaan Bredenkamp, says he was pleasantly surprised to see so much passion, excitement, and curiosity around sustainability.
“At one point I had to politely ask students to save their questions for the networking session,” he says.
“For most of our new students, it was the first time that they were included in a serious discussion about how sustainability affects the workplace.”
Other activities took place on campus in the lead-up to the event on Friday, including some fun and interactive workshops about reusing, reducing, and recycling, along with a staff and student research forum focused on recycling.
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Success Story: Giang (Daniel) Tran (October 28 2022)
Recent Bachelor of Information Technology graduate, Giang (Daniel) Tran, has landed a job as a software engineer at a fast-growing start-up in the Conversational AI space.
Giang came from Vietnam in July 2017 to attend high school in New Zealand.
“I wanted to live in a new country and more importantly experience New Zealand's globally recognised educational system,” he says.
He did years 11 and 12 of high school in Nelson before completing a New Zealand Diploma in IT Technical Support at Aspire2 International.
He then decided a bachelor’s degree would best prepare him for a career in IT and enrolled with OPAIC.
Since completing the Bachelor of Information Technology at OPAIC, Giang has secured a job as a software engineer at a fast-growing start-up in the Conversational AI space - Ambit AI.
“My day-to-day job is to write computer code to maintain the Ambit platforms and build up new solutions to help solve Ambit clients’ needs,” he says.
Giang says his studies here have prepared him well to work in his chosen field.
“The courses at OPAIC were developed to give me an idea of what to expect when working in the IT industry.”
He completed a five-month internship as a software developer intern at the Cloud Solution Provider, Umbrellar, during his final year of study.
After completing his internship, he landed a job as a Junior Web Developer at LifeDirect, which he carried out alongside his study.
“I loved the flexibility of studying here as the lecturers always facilitated for me to rearrange my study schedule so that I could undertake my IT job to gain industry experience,” says Giang.
He says one of the best parts about studying at OPAIC was all the friends he made.
They have many great memories together, including rushing to submit assignments on time and playing pool in the student hub during breaks. They still keep in touch now that they’ve finished their programmes.
Giang encourages all current and future students to make friends on campus and enjoy the student life.
He also has another piece of advice: “Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.”
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Jo's growth cycle enters new phase (October 26 2022)
After almost 33 years at Otago Polytechnic’s Central Campus, Jo Wakelin is leaving for fresh challenges.
Certainly, she describes her future as a “renaissance rather than retirement”.
Well respected for her horticultural expertise and contribution to both education and industry, Jo says horticulture is in her DNA.
And she’s not speaking figuratively – one of her ancestors, the Reverend Richard Johnson, is regarded as the father of the Australian citrus industry.
“Really it is all about plants,” Jo says. “I get the most buzz out of plants, particularly alpine natives, vegetables, medicinal and dry-loving xerics.”
Yet, the passing of knowledge to others is also an obvious passion: Jo has taught horticulture to primary and secondary school students, at certificate and diploma level, online, face to face, in industry, to farmers . . . in fact, “anybody who wants to learn to grow”, she says.
“I do get a buzz from seeing graduates progressing in industry and the feeling that I may have helped contribute to their passion.”
Jo notes there have been plenty of highlights during her time at Otago Polytechnic, which she joined in 1990.
These include the rise in popularity of the annual Giant Plant Sale at Labour Weekends, the new nursery at Bannockburn Rd, along with other initiatives.
“The steady development of a commercial plant nursery at Cromwell has resulted in more than 25 Giant Plant Sales, with increasingly larger crowds lining up to catch a bargain grown by the students.
“And thanks to Philip Cullen for allowing the funds to develop the enviable new nursery complex at the Bannockburn Road campus – it is a wonderful facility!”
Jo has also been closely involved in massive redesign of horticulture programmes during the D4LS phase, and the development of the NZ Certificate in Horticulture (Level 3), an online programme that immediately attracted almost 800 applications.
Jo has recently developed a medicinal herb bed at the Central Campus in a partnership with Artemis, a producer of traditional plant medicines. More than 20 different species of medicinal herbs, from echinacea to ashwagandha, have been trialled.
Passionate about environmentally conscious landscaping, Jo has highlighted the sustainable use of water to her students and the local communities.
“After so many presentations to groups and conferences over the years, it is heartening to see increasing awareness of water use in landscaping.”
She played a key role in establishing the Water Conservation Garden in Cromwell. Starting as an initiative from Otago Polytechnic, it has been supported by the Cromwell Community Board and the Central Otago District Council, and aims to educate people about the sustainable use of water in local gardens.
Jo has fully supported and helped develop Project Gold, a Department of Conservation initiative encouraging Otago people to grow and look after their own kōwhai trees and strengthen enthusiasm for Central Otago’s dryland forest restoration.
Reflecting on more than three decades at Otago Polytechnic, Jo says she is particularly grateful to longstanding colleagues Alex Huffadine and Jo Brun at the Central Campus.
They have become much valued friends over 30-plus years of teaching and fun together.”
Says Alex: “I happened to know Jo before she came on board part-time back in the early 90s. Jo is a great teacher. Her attention to detail is incredible and students get this benefit.
“Her knowledge of our regional plants is second to none. Jo also had that unique skill of being able to apply theory into practice and students definitely benefited from this.
“While I was campus manager, I was lucky enough to be able to lean on Jo for support when I was really stretched. Jo could step into any role and had a great knowledge of academic process and quality.”
As for her next growth cycle, Jo has established a consultancy and will continue to develop a 4ha commercial cherry orchard at her home near Mt Pisa.
She is also planning to spend more time enhancing her resilient dry-loving garden, which is gaining international recognition, having featured in a number of books, as well as in the New York Times, the UK’s Sunday Telegraph and in several Australasian magazines.
“Most notably, it was one of 40 gardens worldwide to be included in Wild – The Naturalistic Garden by the British authority, Noel Kingsbury,” Jo says with no small measure of pride.
FOOTNOTE: The Reverend Richard Johnson arrived in Australia on 26 January 1788 with the First Fleet. While en route to Australia, he stayed at Rio de Janeiro. Thinking the oranges there might grow well in Botany Bay, he obtained seeds - which he later planted successfully - thus becoming the father of the Australian citrus industry.
PHOTO CREDIT: JULIET NICHOLAS
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Charity House open homes set to begin (October 26 2022)
As Otago Polytechnic prepares for its 16TH annual Charity House Auction on 19 November, it will hold the first in a series of open homes on Thursday, 27 October.
Over the past 15 years, more than $1.4 million has been donated to Otago community charities – thanks to funds raised from Charity House, a project made possible through the generosity of the many sponsors who donate time and materials.
In 2021, Otago Polytechnic donated $115,000 to the Catalytic Foundation from the sale of the Charity House, the proceeds being distributed to 24 charities in the area, including Anglican Family Care, Dunedin Community House, Stopping Violence Dunedin, Volunteer South and Youthline Otago.
“We are proud to play a part in a project that provides benefits to many others,” says Dr Megan Gibbons, Otago Polytechnic Chief Executive.
“The project embodies our vision learning with purpose, creating our futures, while exemplifying the applied learning approach that Otago Polytechnic provides.”
Otago Polytechnic Carpentry Lecturer Kevin Dunbar says the Charity House project provides plenty of rewards – for him and his fellow lecturers, for learners and for the community.
“As a Lecturer, it is very rewarding to work here at Otago Polytechnic. We get the opportunity to pass on skills to empower students to learn and gain a good work ethic in Carpentry.
“We are happy and proud to put our Licence Building Practitioner number on these quality four-bedroom, well-insulated, 125m2 transportable homes.”
Tracey McLennan, Head of Programmes, College of Engineering, Construction and Living Sciences, agrees.
“It is such a reward to watch the students’ growth in skills across the year and see their faces light up at the end of the year with what they have achieved with a real-world project.
“Without the work of the staff and sponsors in bringing this together we would not be able to support the community through the amazing work that the Catalytic Foundation does allocating out money to our local community”.
Teresa Moore, Catalytic Foundation Chief Executive, says her organisation distributes funding from the sale of the Charity House to small to medium community-based charities.
“These organisations don’t have large marketing or fundraising resources in-house, so any contributions make a significant impact to their ability to help Otago communities in need.
“The Charity House project has demonstrated the power and impact of individuals and organisations joining together and using their particular skills to support those in need in their community.”
“We would like to thank Otago Polytechnic staff and carpentry students as well as the local businesses who contributed so generously to the fit-out of the houses.”
Details:
Otago Polytechnic Charity House Auction, 19 November (12pm, Otago Polytechnic, 30 Parry St, Dunedin).
Open homes will be held on the following dates and times: 27 October (5pm-5.30pm); 30 October (1pm-2pm); 3 November (5pm-5.30pm); 6 November (1pm-2pm); 10 November (5pm-5.30pm); 13 November (1pm-2pm); 17 November (5pm-5.30pm).
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Student Showcase – a smorgasbord of activities (October 26 2022)
How do you begin a feast of student-led activities? By hosting an actual feast.
Otago Polytechnic’s annual Student Showcase officially begins this Thursday 27 October with Hākari, a cross-disciplinary event that celebrates a range of Otago-based food producers.
A collaboration between Otago Polytechnic’s Food Design Institute, School of Design (Communication) and Dunedin School of Art, our tauira are showcasing local food producers in the form of food experiences, design installations, photography and videography.
Student Showcase, which continues through November, is all about celebrating the work that our learners have produced throughout the year.
From Fashion to Architecture, Product and Communication Design, Art, Information Technology, Engineering, Horticulture and Sport, Exercise and Health, our learners do it all with incredible skill and passion.
That’s why we’re so proud to shine a light on them and show off what they’ve been up to this year.
A popular public event, our annual Charity House Auction will celebrate its 15th year on 19 November.
Over the past 14 years, more than $1.4 million has been donated to Otago community charities – thanks to funds raised from the Charity House auction, a project made possible through the generosity of the many sponsors who donate time and materials.
In 2021, Otago Polytechnic donated $115,000 to the Catalytic Foundation from the sale of Charity House, the proceeds being distributed to 24 charities in the area, including Anglican Family Care, Dunedin Community House, Stopping Violence Dunedin, Volunteer South and Youthline Otago.
The first of several open homes will be held this Thursday, 27 October (5pm-5.30pm) at L Block.
Built by Otago Polytechnic carpentry students, the Charity House project embodies the ethos that our people make a better world. It also exemplifies the applied learning approach that we provide.
Yet it is just one of many exciting student projects that will be celebrated as part of Student Showcase.
Which brings us back to the opening event, Hākari . . .
“It’s an opportunity to share, reconnect and celebrate together,” says Chloe Humphreys, Academic Leader of Otago Polytechnic’s culinary programmes.
Denise Narciso, Senior Lecturer in Design, says the Bachelor of Design (Communication) learners have gained a great deal from the Hākari experience.
“For this project, our ākonga learned how to plan, lead and implement their event and branding ideas, as well as work closely with other learners, clients, and stakeholders.
“They have learned how to manage time and communicate effectively through a real-life project.”
Thomas Lord, Technical Teacher/Photography, at the Dunedin School of Art, agrees:
“Students enjoyed the opportunity to gain real-world experience by working with local suppliers while adhering to a specific client-based brief.
“It was a great chance for students to produce unique content for diverse clients and learn about their story in the process.”
For more information about Otago Polytechnic’s Student Showcase, visit
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Construction graduate finds his path (October 26 2022)
OPAIC helped Nikolai Kalininskii discover what he wanted to achieve in life.
He gave the student address on behalf of OPAIC graduates at our Graduation last week.
Nikolai arrived at OPAIC in October 2019 from Russia and has just graduated with a Bachelor of Construction (Quantity Surveying).
Nikolai is now working for Emmitt Consultants, the company with which he completed his student internship.
During his speech, he told graduates he wasn’t exactly sure what he really wanted to achieve in life and what his goals were when he first came to OPAIC.
“But I had many different individuals who actually guided me through this and supported me all the way through.”
He had previously studied in another field before realising it wasn’t what he really wanted to do in life and that he needed to start from scratch. He now has no regrets about changing his path because he’s happy with what he’s doing.
He thanked academic staff for being open, kind, patient, and sharing their knowledge.
“The knowledge that we have received from Otago Polytechnic will help us to define our lives,” he said.
Nikolai was also grateful to support staff. He said all students had questions at various times during their study journey.
“We all came to the understanding that we could come to the first floor of the AIC building and all our questions would be resolved. Thank you for that.”
He thanked his fellow students for being cooperative, friendly, and motivating and inspiring each other.
“We’ve all made new friends who have supported us to become a better version of ourselves.”
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Rachel Dibble wins Ako Award (October 26 2022)
Otago Polytechnic Lecturer Rachel Dibble has won a Te Whatu Kairangi –Ako Aotearoa Tertiary Educator Award for 2022.
The award is among the most prestigious teaching awards in New Zealand.
A Senior Lecturer within Otago Polytechnic’s Social Services programme, Rachel (Ngāti Ruanui, Ngā Ruahine) won a Kaupapa Māori Award. She is also eligible for the Prime Minister’s Tertiary Educator of the Year Award – to be awarded to one of the nine awardees on November 23.
Otago Polytechnic Chief Executive Dr Megan Gibbons says the award reflects a strong culture of excellence at the institution.
“I’m delighted Rachel has been acknowledged with such a prestigious award,” says Dr Gibbons (a recipient of an Ako Award in 2016).
“It’s wonderful the awards committee have acknowledged Rachel’s dedication and excellence. Her contribution to Otago Polytechnic and her commitment to her tauira is greatly valued.”
Rachel places great emphasis on creating a learning environment in which people experience real connections to place and space.
“As an educator, I strive to facilitate authentic learning experiences that come from recognition of mana whenua space – and are founded on the provisions of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
“Experiencing whakawhānaukataka in a learning environment is one way to tautoko (support) the mana of the tauira in the room. It is all about building relationships.
“I am humbled to accept this award. It is a consequence of the mahi of inspirational tangata Māori, and my whānau. This mahi builds on foundations laid at OP by Emeritus Professor Dr Khyla Russell and team, and the passionate colleagues I co-deliver with today.
“My approach includes facilitating education through multimedia, incorporating Māori voices such as heavy rock band Alien Weaponry, and the outstanding slam poetry group Ngā Hine Pūkōrero.”
More than 20 Otago Polytechnic educators have won Ako Aotearoa Awards since 2007.
Read more about the award winners here
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Product Design learners' pop-up exhibition (October 20 2022)
From a banana hanger to cast iron cookware, a heavy-duty blanket to a bowl made of carbon fibre, a group of talented Otago Polytechnic learners are holding a pop-up exhibition at Dunedin design store Guild.
The exhibition, which opened on 22 October, is the result of a semester-long Bachelor of Design (Product) project aimed at providing learners with a range of real-world challenges.
The students have been required to consult with their client, Guild, which is run by not-for-profit group Dunedin Designed Inc. Staffed entirely by designers, Guild showcases everything from handcrafted jewellery and innovative fashion to homewares, furniture, art prints and more.
“Our learners have had to interpret the store’s requirements, values and aspirations, and seek new product opportunities that fit these,” Otago Polytechnic Design Lecturer Tim Armstrong explains.
“They have researched contemporary New Zealand design, developing and articulating their own design values through their work.
“In doing so, the students learn about what it takes to develop, manufacture and market products in New Zealand, and the opportunities and considerations this presents. They also need to clearly communicate ideas back to manufacturers to ensure accurate production of their designs.
“In addition, they have had to create branding, packaging, point-of-sale and marketing material to suit different audiences,” Tim says.
Details of Otago Polytechnic Bachelor of Design (Product) learners’ works being exhibited at Guild (145 Stuart St, Dunedin):
Will Davenport: Cast iron cookware aimed at (but not exclusive to) outdoor cooking. Fits Coleman-style two-burner camping stoves.
Tommy Wilson: High-end, rugged outdoor blanket made of wool and canvas.
Quinn Curtis: Banana hanger, made from reclaimed kauri, which keeps fruit separate and fresher longer.
Sam Guerin: Bowls made in carbon fibre and bronze.
Hamish Lockie: Folded sheet-metal side tables, combining high-tech cutting techniques with detail normally associated with craft.
Tom Bernard: Hi-fi table for turntable, amp and records, or just a nice coffee table. Made of sustainable Southland beech.
Bodie Duncan: Hoodies, t-shirts with own branding and graphics (in collaboration with an Otago Polytechnic Communication Design student).
Jenny Duncan: Sheet-metal shelves, colourful, cheerful and strong graphic elements for the wall.
Lukin Tayles: Apparel with own branding.
Finn McKelvie: Surf/skate-inspired acrylic wall art.
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Central Campus to hold Giant Plant Sale (October 19 2022)
A huge array of locally grown plants will be on sale at Otago Polytechnic’s annual Giant Plant Sale, to be held at its Central Otago Campus this Labour Weekend.
The main plant sale will be held at the Polytechnic’s Cromwell campus from 9.30am-12pm on Saturday 22 October, but pensioners with a gold card can choose to avoid the masses by attending a special 12pm-2pm timeslot the day before.
Otago Polytechnic horticulture staff member Kathryn Sutherland says the sale is a popular fixture for the region’s gardeners.
“Everyone loves the range of plants, fantastic bargains, free gardening advice and the chance to support our horticulture students.
“All of the plants and vegetables on sale are perfectly suited to our Central Otago climate and have been propagated and grown by our horticulture students.
“They’ve done an amazing job. We’re selling a wide array of plants and vegetables, from bedding plants to veges and herbs. We also have a variety of natives, tussocks and trees.”
Drought-resistant plants are a particular specialty.
“Otago Polytechnic has a strong sustainable practice ethos and one of the things we’re big on is saving water. Drought-resident plants don’t require much water so we’re huge advocates of using them to create dry gardens.”
While the main focus of the day is plants and gardens, the sale is also a great family day out and a good chance to experience what happens on campus.
There will be free beer and wine tastings prepared and run by Otago Polytechnic students. There’s also an opportunity to view the stone walls and features built by students of New Zealand’s only full-time stonemasonry course.
Entry to the Giant Plant sale is free.
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Ceremony commemorates O.T. School founder (October 19 2022)
A tree re-planting ceremony was held at Otago Polytechnic’s Dunedin Campus yesterday, Tuesday 18 October, to commemorate the late Dr Linda Wilson, founding HOS of Occupational Therapy.
Dr Wilson is well remembered by colleagues, past and present, as the woman who set up the School of Occupational Therapy at Otago Polytechnic in Dunedin in 1990.
She was passionate about Occupational Therapy and had an extensive professional career before she brought her expertise and wisdom to the new school.
Under her leadership the School of Occupational Therapy flourished and a few years later she was pivotal to the establishment of a second programme based at WINTEC, in the Waikato.
“Linda was always enthusiastic and had a wicked sense of humour,” Yvonne Thomas recalls.
“She was an inspiration and mentor to many who worked with her and to the hundreds of students whom she educated. She was awarded an honorary life membership of Occupational Therapy New Zealand in 2016.
“Linda died peacefully at Pohlen Hospital in Matamata on 9 June 2017.”
A maple tree, originally planted at the northern end of the Quad, was moved to the southern end which, fittingly, is closer to G Block, where Occupational Therapy is based.
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Celebrating secondary school designers (October 19 2022)
A vibrant array of design projects are on display at Otago Polytechnic’s Dunedin Campus this week as it hosts the annual Celebrate Design Secondary Schools Awards Exhibition.
The event, which culminates in an awards ceremony at Otago Polytechnic’s Hub on Thursday 20 October, has attracted entries by senior students from Otago schools.
Works include 2D illustrations and images, presentation boards as well as fashion garments.
The overall winner is eligible for a fees scholarship (Year 2, Semester 1) for Otago Polytechnic’s Bachelor of Design degree programme (Product, Communication, Fashion).
Otago Polytechnic’s Celebrate Design Secondary Schools Exhibition runs until Thursday 20 October at the Hub, Forth St, Dunedin.
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Celebrating our newest graduates (October 18 2022)
We celebrated success and resilience at our 15th Graduation ceremony at the Auckland Town Hall yesterday.
A total of 149 graduates crossed the stage yesterday. They had completed a range of qualifications through our Auckland International Campus, Capable NZ, and our Dunedin campus.
Otago Polytechnic Chief Executive, Megan Gibbons, said it was exciting to be celebrating success after all the challenges of the past couple of years. Those challenges had been particularly difficult for our international students.
“The resilience that has been demonstrated by our learners, their families, and the wider community should be congratulated.”
She said Graduation was a chance to acknowledge that resilience and see what success meant.
“We will acknowledge the transformation that happens with education.”
She said she believed we were all placed on the planet with a purpose to fulfil.
“The closer you get to your purpose in life, the more energy you will get from it.”
It’s not about following convention, but rather finding your passion in life and going in that direction.
“As you choose your path, follow your passion. Get the support you need and create your own destiny.”
Our Graduation Address was given by Acoustics Agile Engineering Consultants Technical Director, Richard Finley.
Richard told graduates their programmes have given them valuable technical skills. The next stage of their career would involve developing a broad set of life skills.
“The best way to do this is to get the right people around you to teach, encourage and correct you,” he said.
They might be in the workplace or in other circles such as community groups or sports clubs.
He encouraged them all to build and maintain integrity. He said the reputation they developed each day would precede them.
“Whether you are diligent, have integrity, have a thirst for learning and development or supporting those around you. These and other factors are crucial to what a prospective employer will hear about you before they decide to hire you.”
Some might encourage you to develop a short-term win-at-all-costs approach in your employment, but that could damage your reputation, he said.
“A good reputation will last longer than any short-term gain and will stand you in good stead for your career, no matter where you go.”
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Settling into New Zealand life (October 14 2022)
Three of our previous Online Student Representatives from different parts of the world are happy to finally be together on campus.
Raul Penaranda, Kashmira More, and Windy Dharmawan all began their study with us from overseas and all served as Online Student Representatives at various times, assisting fellow online students with their studies.
Raul comes from the Philippines, Kashmira from India, and Windy from Indonesia. Raul and Kashmira were able to travel to New Zealand to join us in person this July and Windy joined us on campus this October.
All three students studied the Postgraduate Certificate in Applied Management with us online and have come to New Zealand to complete their Master of Applied Management.
They reflect on their move to New Zealand below.
How has the settling-in process been for you?
Raul: “I've settled in quite smoothly over the past few months. I was able to find work within a week at Sky City and adjust to driving on the left side of the road pretty quick. Coming from the online programme to onshore was challenging at first due to the course load. Learning to balance two assignments forced me to plan ahead to avoid cramming it all in before the deadline.”
Kashmira: “Although the settling-in process was full of surprises, it was an interesting experience for me and my husband. I have met people who were extremely welcoming and helpful. While adapting to a new culture, this process has taught me to be more independent and patient with changes in life. Change is the only thing which is constant, hence I am embracing it with open arms.”
Windy: “It’s challenging, especially when searching for a place to stay, it’s a big decision which needs to be made in a short time. I'm really glad the campus and friends who were already here helped to provide suggestions about the area and explained how things work here, such as electricity, internet, and water – essential processes that I was not familiar with.”
What’s the best part about being in NZ?
Raul: “Being able to appreciate the outdoors is amazing. I was able to go to Waitawa during the study break and enjoyed the view and the beach with fellow classmates. I also make it a point to jog around the many reserves near my flat. I look forward to exploring the trails around Piha Beach next.”
Kashmira: “Wherever you are, you can easily reach the ocean! Moreover, the pure air, scenic surroundings, and beautiful architecture are some of the best things in NZ.”
Windy: “Beautiful places can be reached within minutes, fresh air, very pleasant and supportive people.”
What’s the best thing about campus life?
Raul: “Getting exposed to different cultures on campus is an enlightening experience. It's a good representation of the diversity that can be found in Auckland.”
Kashmira: “Students get immense support to settle in with their studies along with volunteering opportunities. The events organised provide students with a platform to explore their limits.”
Windy: “The Orientation was amazing, I left my little family back in Indonesia but already found myself a big family at the campus.”
I hear you’ve all secured part-time jobs already. Tell us a bit about that.
Raul: “I wasn't expecting to find work related to what I was doing back in the Philippines so quickly. I figured I wouldn’t get the chance to apply to business consultancy jobs until after I graduated in September 2023, but a classmate inspired me to start looking right away. I found a suitable posting in Student Job Search from a tech company based in Albany and I applied on a Sunday afternoon. I got a call from them on Monday while I was in class and had a video interview with them on Tuesday. I was then asked to make an in-person presentation to their CEO by Friday that week. I got a job offer after that weekend and I'm immensely loving my work now.”
Kashmira: “During my initial days of settling in, I used to carry a copy of my CV and ended up sharing it in stores I used to visit. I visited a 2degrees store to buy a sim and enquired about part-time positions. Luckily the guy asked me to share my resume. After a month, I got an offer from the 2degrees store. The employability course offered by OPAIC helped a lot, and the campus Employability Team helped me design my CV to NZ standards. I also wasn't shy about asking stores if they need an extra hand. Fortunately, I ended up getting a job in the telco industry.”
Windy: “I got a job offer at the hotel where I stayed (Ascotia Off Queen Hotel). I casually talked with the receptionist and asked if they needed an extra hand. They immediately asked me to send my CV. I'm glad I followed the employability course offered by OPAIC as it really helped me with my CV. Today I signed the contract and got my first training as a receptionist. I celebrated it by having a little picnic at Takapuna Beach with my wife and told all my family. The manager is still looking for more staff – contact me if you’re interested!”
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Otago Polytechnic claims three medals in Best Design Awards (October 10 2022)
Otago Polytechnic has won three medals in the Designers Institute of New Zealand Best Design Awards 2022.
Otago Polytechnic Design (Communication) learner Vincent Egan won a gold medal in the Student - Digital category for his virtual reality game, Mythik Tāne, which judges described as a showcase of indigenous art and storytelling.
Vincent used a pūrākau (ancient story) as the central narrative for his Master of Design project. His game involves three levels and quests, in which the player navigates a uniquely Māori world.
Otago Polytechnic Bachelor of Architectural Studies graduate Georgia Pope won a Silver in the Spatial - Student category.
Georgia’s concept “Kaituna”, envisages restoring a wetland at Forbury Park Raceway and the adjacent Kettle Park.
“Kaituna”, which references the Te Reo Māori name for the area, also won Georgia the 2021 New Zealand Institute of Architects (NZIA) Southern Branch Student Award late last year.
And Otago Polytechnic Bachelor of Design (Product) graduate Emily MacKenzie won a bronze medal in the Student - Product section for her project, “Rockertot”, a versatile child’s rocker that also can be used as a chalkboard and table.
Organised by the Designers Institute of New Zealand (DINZ), the awards were held in Auckland at the weekend. They are regarded as the annual showcase of excellence in graphic, spatial, product, interactive and motion design in New Zealand.
“Congratulations to Vincent, Georgia and Emily, who were among several Otago Polytechnic entries to reach the finals of the 2022 Best Design Awards,” Otago Polytechnic Chief Executive Dr Megan Gibbons says.
“Previous Best Awards finalists and winners have gone on to launch their design careers in New Zealand and overseas.”
Read more here
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Student Story: Erica Novianti (October 10 2022)
Erica Novianti loved the small class sizes and hands-on approach offered by OPAIC.
She recently completed her Bachelor of Information Technology and was one of our top-performing students.
Erica grew up in Indonesia and never considered going overseas for tertiary study until her final year of high school in 2019. It was her mother who convinced her to come to New Zealand
“I heard a lot of stories from my mom about New Zealand. She talked about her trip here and said the nature is beautiful.”
Another family member then recommended OPAIC, and our generous scholarships sealed the deal.
She was interested in IT and so started researching the field of study online.
“I found a lot of videos showing how they program apps. I was interested in learning about it and wanted to make my own app,” says Erica.
She says it’s important for students to pursue studies in the areas they’re passionate about. That way they’ll enjoy the experience.
“I researched more and found out that OPAIC teaches in practical ways rather than theoretical - hands-on experience with real industry projects which got me interested.”
Erica liked the small class sizes here, which allowed students to easily interact with lecturers and one another. She could even approach lecturers outside of class time with questions and they were happy to help.
“We got a lot of hands-on experience and built a lot of projects for our assignments. We also had studio courses where we got to experience how the industry really works,” she says.
Now that she’s finished her study, Erica’s searching for a job in software development while continuing to hone her skills by practising programming languages.
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Success Story: Hetaswi Patel (October 7 2022)
Hetaswi Patel was able to move seamlessly from her study into her construction internship thanks to the hands-on nature of her programme.
Heta has just completed a Bachelor of Construction with us and was one of our top-performing students.
She moved to New Zealand from Gujarat, India after finishing high school in 2019.
“I always wanted to explore a different country to pursue my further studies. I had a few in my mind and New Zealand appealed to me the most because of its culture, spectacular landscapes, friendly people, internationally accredited qualifications, and matchless quality of life.”
The factors that attracted her to construction included the diversity of day-to-day tasks, the opportunity to gain a large variety of skills, the intellectual challenge, and the competitive salary.
“I realised the vast scale of the construction industry in the country along with its career opportunities.”
Heta started her Bachelor of Construction just as New Zealand went into Covid-19 lockdown, so she began the programme online.
“The immense support I got from my tutors, student support team, and registry and admission team was beyond expectations. People were friendly, always in touch, and made sure that I was doing fine during these hard times.”
She says the best part of her study journey was her excellent teachers.
“They have always been patient, helpful, and friendly and made me feel at ease.”
“They always pushed me to move further, encouraged me to explore my capabilities, provided me with tremendous assistance with my assignments, and maintained constant good communication.”
During the last year of her studies, Heta came across a position as an Intern Quantity Surveyor at one of the very highly regarded tiling companies in Auckland.
“I was very nervous before starting this role and entering the corporate world, but as I started, I realised how much my learning and assignments from my courses aligned with the real-world industry,” she says.
Heta was able to reflect on her learning on the job and progress very well with her duties.
“The things I learned at OPAIC from technical knowledge to soft skill knowledge such as using certain online software, were the same as those used in the industry, making it easy for me to apply them to my internship position.”
Another highlight of OPAIC was studying alongside people of diverse cultures, she says. This allowed her to practice communicating with people with all sorts of backgrounds and appreciate the country's multicultural society.
“I have made some incredible international pals that I will remember forever,” she says.
“For current and future students, my advice is to just enjoy your education, learn as much as possible from your teachers, who have plenty to give, and establish lifelong friends at OPAIC.”
“Finally, I'd like to thank the OPAIC family for providing me with such a beautiful experience throughout my student career.”
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Welcoming a diverse cohort (October 5 2022)
We welcomed students from more than 15 countries to the campus today at our final Orientation event for 2022.
Our new students in this intake have come from India, the Philippines, Iran, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Russia, Fiji, Albania, Kazakhstan, South Africa, Colombia, Nepal, China, Malaysia, South Korea, and Papua New Guinea.
Some students were new to OPAIC and others had started their studies online in their home countries during the pandemic.
Deputy Chief Executive Sales, Marketing, and Business Development, Gagan Sachdeva, addressed the students at today’s event.
“You are the largest group of students we have welcomed to this campus in a very long time. We have waited for this moment.”
He said he hoped they would have an amazing journey with us.
“I assure you that you are surrounded by some of the most brilliant academic and professional staff in New Zealand if not the world. So, make the most of your time with us here.”
He encouraged them to connect with teachers, other staff, and fellow students.
“This is an amazingly diverse cohort of students. There is hardly any situation in life where you have people from 15, 20, or 30 countries sitting in a room. Imagine the power of that diversity.”
It’s an amazing opportunity to see things from other people’s perspectives and learn from their life experiences, he said.
“These connections will make your journey very, very meaningful and exciting.”
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Live music in the Hub today (September 29 2022)
Reconnect and enjoy some live performances in the Hub this lunchtime.
Look out for Rex Askerud who will be coordinating this event.
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Otago Polytechnic helps community group with innovative recycling solution (September 28 2022)
Otago Polytechnic has worked with a Dunedin community group to come up with an innovative solution to recycling milk bottle tops.
A milk bottle top shredder, designed and built by Otago Polytechnic electrical engineering students, with help from other learners and staff, has been donated to Connections Education Development Trust.
Connections, which provides training and employment opportunities in Dunedin for people with high-support needs, plans to install the machine later this week.
Milk bottle tops can’t be put in recycling bins because of processing difficulties. However, the machine will mean they are no longer destined for landfill. Once the bottle tops are shredded, they can be sold in bulk as mouldable thermoplastic, which can be melted and remade into range of products.
Benton Glassey, Facilitator at Connections, says his organisation has already amassed a sizable collection of bottle tops, following interest from a range of organisations and businesses, ranging from Milford Sound to South Dunedin cafes.
“The demand is high – and we haven’t even really begun letting people know about this service.
“Because people who use our centre have very high support needs, the shredder will be operated by someone in the wider community with a disability who will be supported to use it safely.”
Safety considerations have been extensive, says David Bettis, Head of Allied Trades Programmes at Otago Polytechnic.
“The shredder has been carefully designed to incorporate extra safety features.
“We had about a dozen NZ Certificate in Electrical Engineering (Level 3) learners designing electrical control circuits, and considering things like emergency stops and guard switches, as well as doing a risk assessment,” David explains.
“Many of them said the project had been a highlight of their studies. In fact, some of them have gone straight on to apprenticeships. I think real-world project experiences such as this put them in good stead to go and get employment.”
David says the project has involved more than just electrical engineering learners, and has included input from mechanical engineering (welding and fabrication) as well as Otago Polytechnic Occupational Therapy students, who worked with Connections to help identify and develop goals based around those with high needs having opportunities to meet others in the wider community.
Says Benton: “The outcomes are not just about recycling.
“The project has got a great community grassroots kind of vibe to it. This includes social connotations around collecting bottle tops, which in turn raises awareness around disability.
“There’s a lot of energy and life to all this. It’s a great example of how student-led innovation intersects with community collaboration – to the benefit of many.”
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From world golfing stage to provincial rugby – student’s juggling act (September 27 2022)
It’s fair to say Otago Polytechnic student Spencer Byers has had more than a few balls in the air lately.
Spencer, who is completing a Master of Applied Science at Otago Polytechnic’s Institute of Sport, Exercise and Health, is juggling his studies with exciting roles at Animation Research Ltd (ARL) and Otago Rugby.
All of which is perfect for the self-confessed sports fanatic.
“I have always been interested in sport and played many different codes,” Spencer explains.
“I went overseas in 2015 with for Otago United FC to compete in an international club football tournament called the Milk Cup (Super Cup NI).
“I've always had a passion for watching and playing many different sports, so I feel very privileged to work in the sports industry.”
Spencer clocked up some serious air points earlier in the year, helping ARL cover major golf tournaments such as the Mexico Open in Vallarta, as well as other PGA Tour events in Washington DC, Dallas and Tulsa.
His role as a graphics operator involved being in constant communication with the director and producer of each show, providing live tracking of shots, ball positions and fly-overs of each hole, among many other things.
“The job has taken me to some amazing places. I have gained some invaluable knowledge and experiences.”
Spencer now has his feet firmly planted on southern soil - focusing on his role as the Head Performance Analyst at Otago Rugby for the NPC season.
“It can be pretty full-on at times, but I am enjoying what I'm doing. I am trying to learn new things every day and keep challenging myself.
“I feel as though the skills I have learned through Otago Polytechnic can be easily transitioned into the real world,” Spencer says.
“Gaining such hands-on experience before graduating has helped me feel confident and ready to work in the sports industry.”
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Graduand has good reason to make some noise (September 21 2022)
Rosa Nevison has good reason to be in a celebratory mood come Otago Polytechnic’s graduation ceremony at the Dunedin Town Hall on Thursday 22 September.
Rosa will join more than 300 graduands, many of whom who were denied earlier opportunities to celebrate in person because of Covid-related issues.
“I’m super-excited to be attending the grad ceremony, especially after thinking we wouldn’t get one at all,” says Rosa, who completed a Bachelor of Design (Communication) at Otago Polytechnic at the end of 2021.
“It will be so nice to catch up with everyone from my degree programme, see where they’re at and what they’re doing, and also just allow ourselves to bask in the achievement of getting our degree for a day.”
The occasion will cap off a positive few weeks for Rosa, who was last month named a finalist in the Designers Institute of New Zealand Best Design Awards.
One of eight Otago Polytechnic projects amongst the finalists, Rosa’s Newzician magazine is a contender in the “Graphic – Student” category.
“I’m really stoked about being nominated as a finalist,” says Rosa, adding that Newzician is an ongoing project that aims to celebrate and amplify the profiles of Aotearoa musicians.
“I’ve always loved music and the music scene, so when my friends, Sam and Flynn, messaged me last year out of the blue with an idea to start this magazine, I was pretty much immediately on board.
“The timing lined up with my final polytechnic project, in which we had the opportunity to develop our own project briefs.
“I love working on something that combines so many of my interests – music, photography and print media, and is especially gratifying to be able to put something into the world that people enjoy and find value in.
“It is really exciting to feel like we’ve created something that is of value to people and get recognition from the industry for the design I’ve done.”
Since finishing her studies at Otago Polytechnic, Rosa has juggled a range of roles.
“At the moment I work at Print Room, a screen printing/embroidery merchandise studio. I also do photography at UBar at the University of Otago campus, as well as graphic design for artist-run space Wave and, of course, co-run Newzician.
Yes, it’s busy, busy at the moment, but it’s all fun stuff!
“I’m keen to keep doing Newzician and see where that goes. It would be great to establish ourselves a bit more and for the project to be sustainable for us sometime in the future.” -
Graduation latest step in ongoing learning journey (September 20 2022)
Tereinamu Hakopa (Ngāti Tūwharetoa, Ngāti Kahungunu ki Wairarapa) is used to graduation ceremonies, yet this week’s event signifies a key stage in her journey as both a tauira and kaimahi at Otago Polytechnic.
The path to her latest qualification, the Bachelor of Social Services (Career Practice), began at another graduation – in 2018, when she crossed the Dunedin Town Hall stage to celebrate completing a Bachelor of Applied Management through Capable NZ.
“At the ceremony I saw Khyla Russell stand up to acknowledge all the Māori students who walked across the stage,” Tereinamu recalls. “I wanted to do that, to be a cheerleader for Māori and be part of their journey.
“However, I didn’t want to scaffold further study on my BAM. I thought carefully about what I wanted to study.”
Having contemplated moving overseas, Tereinamu found herself at a crossroads. She talked deeply to others, including her dad and her bishop, who encouraged and challenged her to make a plan.
“It was clear things weren’t working. So, I prayed that if I was to remain in Dunedin, I needed a reason to stay. A short time later, I got into my car and an ad came on for an Otago Polytechnic information night. I thought, ‘that sounds like a sign to me’.
“I then attended the information night, which put me on the right pathway – straight to the Bachelor of Social Services.
“I thought I’d be the only older person and the only brown person in my class, but the first person I saw looked just like me, and there were people older than me.”
Tereinamu says her second year was hard, but the third year was more comfortable. Having a supervisor in the final year helped her navigate the ways work life and personal life affect each other.
“For example, I asked my supervisor: ‘Why do I have to learn models for practice that already exist in my culture?’ They just listened, then said: ‘It must be really hard to learn through a Western-centric model’. That was great because I just needed to be heard, and to do things on my own terms.
“As a result, in my research paper I reflected on the professional tools I had acquired by using metaphor, which is key in Māori culture. I used what felt right to me, despite a lack of models, and found that this was highly appropriate.”
At the end of 2021 Tereinamu reflected again on that moment of inspiration a few years earlier.
“I’d started this degree wanting to help Māori and to be their cheerleader, and I thought I needed a PhD – like Khyla Russell – in order to do that.
“But I realised I was already supporting tauira Māori in their successes – in my role as Kaiāwhina in Te Punaka Ōwheo, where I started at the start of 2021. It was a full-circle moment.
“As I was studying the BSS, the Marketing, Communication and Engagement team was looking for someone to help as a Māori Liaison. The combination of my learning in Career Practice and my understanding of Te Ao Māori seemed a win for all. So now I juggle this role with the Kaiāwhina role.”
Tereinamu says working at Otago Polytechnic provides a window into a world of learning possibilities.
“Dunedin is a place of education for my family. I was born here when my dad was studying surveying at the University of Otago – where he gained one of his two PhDs, the other being at Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi.
“Dad’s family are from Taupō and that’s home to me. I grew up there and was close to my grandparents. I lived with them for four years and am named after my nanny, who passed in 2004.
“Dad now lives in the Far North and two of my siblings have moved north, with another soon to move, too.
“So, while I’ll continue to enjoy this playground of learning, I’m waiting for something to pull me back home.”
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Delhi Real Estate Consultant enjoying the online experience (September 20 2022)
Offshore student Raman Verma has fond memories of a trip to New Zealand five years ago and hopes to return here to study and work.
Raman lives in Delhi, India, where he works as a Real Estate Consultant in residential properties.
He is studying towards a Master of Applied Management with OPAIC. This has been his first online learning experience. He says it is far more comfortable than he expected and his lecturer is amazing. Read all about him here.
Offshore student Raman Verma has fond memories of a trip to New Zealand five years ago and hopes to return here to study and work.
Raman lives in Delhi, India, where he works as a Real Estate Consultant in residential properties.
He is studying towards a Master of Applied Management with OPAIC.
“This professional management course will help me to work in almost any type of industry,” he says.
This has been his first online learning experience. He says it is far more comfortable than he expected, and his lecturer is amazing.
Raman selected OPAIC because it is a well-reputed institute located in the main commercial hub of Auckland.
“This will help me to study in a great environment along with good opportunities to work.”
He hopes to soon study onshore in New Zealand.
“This will provide me with great international exposure in both learning and self-development. I would surely like to work in New Zealand as the work culture is amazing and I can achieve my dreams in this beautiful country.”
Raman spent a month staying with a cousin in Auckland five years ago.
“That was one of my best holidays and I gathered many memories in Auckland with some short trips to another nice city - Rotorua.”
He says New Zealand provides the right work-life balance and is an ideal place to live and work.
Raman says he is a nature lover and New Zealand has beautiful natural green areas. It is also one of the safest places in the world.
“No other place in the world can match the beautiful landscapes and people living here. It is my dream to grow here both personally and professionally.”
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Student Story: Kazuhisa Kondo (September 20 2022)
Japanese Information Technology student Kazuhisa Kondo is excelling in his progamme and helping others to succeed.
Kazuhisa has received four Excellent Scholar Awards for top marks in his courses. He’s also working as an IT peer tutor here, supporting IT students with their course work and helping other students with any technical issues.
He says he enjoys the peer tutor work which has taken place both in-person and online during Covid lockdowns.
“I was happy to get the IT peer tutor job because my work has always been to support people,” he says.
Kazuhisa had an impressive work history in Japan, where many of his jobs revolved around IT support.
He studied for a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Information Science back home and has more than 20 years of experience in IT, system administration, and customer service for companies including the Toyota Motor Corporation.
Kazuhisa is from the Aichi prefecture in Japan, best known for being the home of Toyota. He arrived in New Zealand in 2018.
He came to New Zealand to improve his English as well as expand his knowledge of the IT field, which is always changing.
Kazuhisa first completed an English language course, then enrolled in the Bachelor of Information Technology at OPAIC.
One day he’d like to undertake a Master’s degree in IT, but first, he plans to complete his bachelor’s degree then spend some time working in the IT field in New Zealand.
He’ll complete his studies next September and would love to find work at a big company such as Xero, Amazon, or Microsoft.
Kazuhisa says he’s enjoying his time with OPAIC. His lecturers are very interesting, and his classmates come from all over the world.
He is here in New Zealand with his family including two children. They enjoy the New Zealand lifestyle, particularly the environment and the people.
Kazuhisa has a wide range of interests outside of study. He’s a keen ten-pin bowler and has been getting involved in student bowling nights.
He also loves cooking and coffee and recently completed a barista certificate here in New Zealand just for fun.
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Education a two-way street for Leana (September 19 2022)
As she prepares to celebrate graduation, Otago Polytechnic Interior Architecture Lecturer Leana Scheffer embodies the concept of education being a two-way street.
Having completed a Graduate Diploma in Tertiary Education, Leana will join hundreds of others at the Dunedin Town Hall graduation ceremony on 22 September.
Clearly, Leana has a long-held passion for teaching. While working in South Africa, where she was born and raised, she jumped at the opportunity to teach, even if doing so required her to squeeze in lecturing each morning before her fulltime job.
Still, as recent experiences have proven, Leana can cope with disruption.
Just over two years ago, she had all but packed her bags as she prepared to swap her home of South Africa for New Zealand and a new position at Otago Polytechnic.
Then Covid closed many of the world’s borders.
“Thankfully, because everyone adapted to working online, I did the same for many months,” Leana reflects.
However, a 10-hour time-zone difference meant she would wake in the small hours in order to interact with Dunedin-based learners studying the Bachelor of Architectural Studies.
“It is exciting for me that those learners whom I first taught online are now in their third year, so I now get to teach them face-to-face here. Reconnecting with them and seeing their progress is very rewarding.”
Leana says the Graduate Diploma in Tertiary Education, completed via Capable NZ’s Independent Learning Pathway (ILP), opened up new horizons for her.
“The GDTE’s work-integrated learning approach allowed me to apply new knowledge immediately in the classroom.
“The ILP process was amazing, as was my supervisor Jeremy Taylor, who modelled everything I love about teaching.
“I previously didn’t hold a formal teaching qualification, but I have several years of lecturing experience and a master’s degree. I built up my industry-relevant teaching approach based on what I had learnt while working in the architectural industry in South Africa and applying that to a tertiary education context.”
Originally from South Africa’s Cape area, Leana moved inland to Pretoria, where she worked for several years, but has relished the chance to be back near the ocean.
“Dunedin is such a beautiful city and its scale and character really speak to me.
“My husband and I didn’t know anyone when we decided to move here, but everyone has been welcoming and friendly. We had previously visited Wellington and enjoyed the sense of space and being in a less densely populated city. Dunedin is a great fit for us, and we cannot wait to explore the South Island.
“I also like the fact that Otago Polytechnic’s School of Architecture nurtures a studio-based learning approach that helps learners understand the value of strong relationships and architecture that responds to place. We keep growing every year.”
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More than 300 to attend Otago Polytechnic “catch-up” graduation (September 15 2022)
More than 300 graduands will attend Otago Polytechnic’s Graduation ceremony at the Dunedin Town Hall today.
The graduation ceremony will involve many who were denied an earlier opportunity to celebrate in person because of Covid-related issues.
“We know and appreciate that celebrating and acknowledging learners’ mahi is an important part of the learner journey and a proud moment for whānau, our community and staff,” says Dr Megan Gibbons, Chief Executive, Otago Polytechnic.
“Because of Covid-19 concerns, we had to cancel our March 2022 Graduation ceremony, although around 4000 qualifications were conferred.
“As part of an online celebration at the time, we ran a survey asking our grads what kind of alternative event they might like to have.
“They overwhelmingly asked for a formal event where they could still cross the stage. It was important to many of them as an acknowledgement of their achievement,” Dr Gibbons says.
“That’s why we added a September ceremony to our calendar. It will be a large-scale, traditional graduation ceremony – just like those we’ve had in the past.”
In recognition of the disruption faced by Otago Polytechnic’s original March graduands, gown hire for this cohort is free.
“We’re really keen to make sure this is a wonderful day for our grads, their whānau and all our staff who work so hard to support our learners’ goals and ambitions,” Dr Gibbons says.
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Pōpopo wormporium - by the numbers (September 14 2022)
Pōpopo wormporium is thriving! A recent report by Liam Hoffman, Resource Recovery Assistant, highlighted some of the measurable outcomes of our campus composting programme.
Since 28 March 2022, the total recorded organic waste input is 1,861kg.
Compost produced since 28 March is 6.5 cubic metres, averaging 1.5 cubic metres per month. This is picked up and applied to garden beds around campus by Kim Thomas and her gardening team.
Commercial composting started on 13 June, consisting of weekly food waste pickups from Side On via E-bike and trailer. Charging $1 per litre of food waste, we have generated a total revenue of $623.86.
We currently pull an average 4kg of plastic per month from OP bins, so please be conscious of what you put in the food scrap containers around campus.
Public and student engagement is another measure of Pōpopo’s value, and so far this year the following organised visits have occurred:
- Level 3 Horticulture: mycelium workshop, which covered transplanting mycelium to the site and covering the site in woodchips
- Level 1 and 2 Foundation Studies: two class tours of the site and hands-on experience with the composting process
- Food Waste Innovation visit: collective from Otago University, who brought Chief Science Advisor Juliet Gerard through on a food waste tour
Pōpopo is on the map as a serious sustainability success!
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Celebrating Te Wiki o Te Reo Māori (September 13 2022)
Te Kura Matatini ki Ōtāgo-Otago Polytechnic is celebrating Te Wiki o Te Reo Māori with a range of activities and shared kai.
This week (in fact, 14 September) marks the 50th anniversary of the Māori Language Petition, which led to many of the kaupapa we have today, including Te Wiki o te Reo Māori.
Te Wiki o Te Reo Māori has an important part to play in the progression of Otago Polytechnic’s Te Rautaki Reo Māori (Māori Language Strategy).
“The more steps we take to normalising Te Reo Māori at Otago Polytechnic, the better,” says Dr Megan Gibbons, Chief Executive, Otago Polytechnic.
“Our Māori Language Strategy contributes to our Rautaki Māori (Māori Strategic Framework). This includes a clearly defined process to increase the use and confidence of the language among our staff and learners.
“Language is an essential expression of culture, both of which Te Kura Matatini ki Ōtāgo is committed to embedding into the fabric of our institution, as embodied by this whakataukī: Ko tāku reo tāku ohooho, ko tāku reo tāku mapihi mauria (my language is my awakening, my language is the window to my soul).”
Events at Te Kura Matatini ki Ōtāgo-Otago Polytechnic include a daily karakia and waiata, a midweek hāngī, Te Reo Māori pronunciation sessions, and a health workshop for our Māori tauira.
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Ceremony marks raising of Māori flag at Otago Polytechnic (September 12 2022)
Tears, cheers, haka and waiata greeted the permanent raising of the Tino Rangatiratanga flag at Otago Polytechnic’s Dunedin campus today, Monday 12 September.
The ceremony, held outside the Forth St entrance of Otago Polytechnic, was attended by more than 100 tauira, kaimaha and mana whenua, some of whom broke into an impromptu haka following speeches and waiata.
The Tino Rangatiratanga flag (otherwise known as the Māori flag), will fly underneath the New Zealand flag (on the same flagpole). Currently, it will be flown at half-mast to mark the recent death of Queen Elizabeth 2.
“Although Otago Polytechnic has flown the Māori flag in the past, today marks our decision to make it a permanent fixture,” Megan Potiki, Deputy Chief Executive Partnership and Equity, said.
“We worked with the Otago Polytechnic Students’ Association, staff and mana whenua to arrive at this point. It has been a highly consultative process.”
Ezra Tamati, Otago Polytechnic Students’ Association President, described the event as a “really big deal”.
“We are excited by this move as it shows the steps Otago Polytechnic and runaka have been prepared to take following feedback from tauira.
“Once we received approval to fly the flag, we thought about an appropriate date and decided today would be great as it marks the start of Te Wiki o Te Reo Māori.”
The elements of the Tino Rangatiratanga flag represent the three realms:
- Te Korekore, potential being (black, top)
- Te Whai Ao, coming into being (red, bottom)
- Te Ao Mārama, the realm of being and light (white, centre)
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Student Testimonial: Nimisha Prajapati (September 5 2022)
Nimisha Prajapati says she’s on cloud nine now that she’s back in New Zealand and resuming her study after more than two years stuck offshore.
Nimisha was born and raised in India and has worked in Accounts and as a Customer Representative there.
She began her Graduate Diploma in Applied Management with OPAIC in 2019. However, she returned home to India to visit family shortly after and became stuck there for more than two years due to border closures.
She put her studies on hold until she could return to New Zealand, which she was able to do this July.
Nimisha says the pandemic has been a tough time for her as it has for many people around the world but she’s happy to finally be back in New Zealand.
“After coming back to New Zealand I'm feeling like I am on cloud nine.”
Nimisha has two Study Blocks remaining in her diploma and will finish in early December. She is currently carrying out an internship at Cardinal Logistics’ Wiri branch as part of her study.
Nimisha says she would love to work for a company like Cardinal after she graduates.
She says the internship is giving her a chance to understand the business and work culture in New Zealand.
“My work at Cardinal Logistics is to deal with statements, which includes checking invoices, deleting duplications, and asking suppliers for missing invoices via email.”
After getting all the information she needs she uploads it to a system in order to get final approval and collect payments.
“After joining Cardinal I'm feeling like this is New Zealand and this is what I came for. The Cardinal team and their work atmosphere is heavily flexible so I can work and learn freely there.”
She says her OPAIC experience has also been great.
“OPAIC has given me the chance to experience the real New Zealand. I have celebrated a Diwali function and Christmas party with OPAIC back in 2019.
Her overall experience with staff and fellow students has been excellent, she says.
“Each and every staff member at Otago is extremely cooperative and helpful.”
She was particularly thankful to her lecturers Rajeev Chawla, Dani Mao, and Yury Zhukov.
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Industry experts share experience with students (August 30 2022)
Our Construction students have benefitted from a number of industry guest speakers over the past month.
Last week students enjoyed an insightful and interactive lunchtime lecture given by Dr Ramin Asadi, a Contract Specialist at Auckland Council.
Ramin has a commercial and technical background in project management with extensive experience in a variety of construction projects. He has worked on many international projects and has vast experience in project management.
Ramin spoke to students and staff about his experience in contract administration. He started with the fundamentals and then talked us through various elements of contract management.
The Construction Team and Employability Team also collaborated on a Construction Open Day recently, where three guest speakers talked about their journeys in the construction industry.
One was Lenie Buis - Document Controller for Brosnan in Auckland and the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) Auckland Chapter Chair.
Lenie encouraged our students and staff to join NAWIC and experience the joy of success in a dynamic industry.
We also heard from Fiona Jerry - Traffic Manager at Pipeline and Civil and Winner of the Outstanding Leader of the Year - Site Based NAWIC Award in 2022.
Fiona spoke about the need for tertiary education and how difficult it was for her to grow in her career without having a proper tertiary education.
Our next speaker was Jordan Howell - Project Manager at Alaska Construction.
Jordan is currently managing the interior design of many prestigious construction projects. She shared experiences from some of her projects including the Air New Zealand Regional Lounge, The Northern Club, and Panuku Apartments.
The guest speakers were organised by OPAIC Construction Lecturer Srividya Krishnamoorthy.
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Otago Polytechnic continues to play leading role in Dunedin economy (August 30 2022)
Otago Polytechnic has contributed almost a billion dollars to the Dunedin economy over the past five years.
Otago Polytechnic’s latest Economic Impact Report shows the institution’s Dunedin Campus added a total value of more than $967 million to the Dunedin economy from 2017 to 2021.
The report shows Otago Polytechnic’s Dunedin Campus accounted for $212 million total expenditure to Dunedin’s gross domestic product of $6.82 billion in 2021, compared to a contribution of $194 million the previous year.
“These 2021 results show that Otago Polytechnic is continuing to make significant contributions to Dunedin’s economy,” says Dr Megan Gibbons, Chief Executive, Otago Polytechnic.
“This report reflects our record of innovation and adaptation.
“Our ability to collaborate with industry and community is also a big factor in our institutional health.”
The report also assesses the flow-on (or indirect) total expenditure of all Otago Polytechnic’s activities – including its Cromwell Campus and Auckland International Campus – to be $469 million in 2021. In Dunedin total expenditure was $385 million, up $20 million on 2020.
Over half (68.5% or $321 million) of that flow-on expenditure across all campuses was driven by student spending. The remainder was derived from day-to-day Otago Polytechnic expenditure and the impact of staff spending their wages and salaries within their local economies.
Otago Polytechnic is one of Dunedin’s larger employers. In 2021, it employed 562 full-time equivalent (FTES) staff at its Dunedin campus. In total, Otago Polytechnic employed 637 full-time equivalent staff (FTES) in 2021, across all its campuses in Dunedin, Cromwell and Auckland (AIC).
From 2019 to 2021 Dunedin campus EFTS increased by 6.9% overall (domestic and international), from 4336 EFTS (2019) to 4634 EFTS (2021). Over all campuses, Otago Polytechnic’s enrolments in 2021 totalled 5664 EFTS or more than 10,213 actual students (head count).
Otago Polytechnic’s contribution goes beyond economic
“Although the report largely looks at economic results, the value of education should be regarded outside merely fiscal bounds,” Dr Gibbons says.
“Education changes people’s lives and the trajectory for them, their whanau, and communities. There is growth in learning new things and reaching new goals, contributing to society and in helping others to achieve.
“These benefits are more difficult to measure but contribute both directly and indirectly to economic, social, cultural, spiritual and environmental wellbeing.
“As we continue our transition with Te Pūkenga, of which have been a subsidiary since April 2020, we continue to be involved in a highly collaborative process, working together to make improvements for the betterment of all learners,” Dr Gibbons says.
“The charter for Te Pukenga is clear that while there are benefits in a networked approach, we also need to be responsive in the regions – and this is something Otago Polytechnic has proven time and again.
“It’s imperative to keep in mind that our learners are – and always will be – at the centre of what we do. We continue to focus on our mahi supporting current and future learners with their educational aspirations.”
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Otago Polytechnic resumes hosting Japanese learners (August 25 2022)
Otago Polytechnic is excited to welcome back students from Japan’s International College of Technology this week.
Ten students were welcomed on to Otago Polytechnic’s Dunedin Campus this morning, Thursday 25 August, in the first international student exchange of its kind since March 2020, when Covid disrupted much international study.
The learners will be fully immersed into New Zealand culture, living with local families and attending the same lectures as Otago Polytechnic students.
They will study a combination of engineering, Information Technology and English/communication subjects in a one-year programme that runs from April to March of the following year. Although the programme constitutes a one-year certificate at Otago Polytechnic, it comprises the third year of a five-year diploma for students at the International College of Technology.
The programme is part of an MOU between Otago Polytechnic and the International College of Technology aimed at helping develop engineers and IT experts capable of working in the global workplace.
The programme has been running since the early-2000s. Originally developed at the request of the Japanese institution, which wanted students to learn engineering terminology and skills in an English language environment, the programme underwent a redesign in 2020.
“Due to Covid-19 disruptions, the students have been unable to enter New Zealand since March 2020, so we have continued the programme through online and blended delivery, in collaboration with ICT, to enable students to complete their diplomas in Japan,” explains Nathan Dunbar, a Senior Lecturer in the Engineering Technologies team at Otago Polytechnic.
Prior to the redesign in 2020 the students largely studied in separate classes, but the new programme was designed to enable students to integrate with local IT and engineering classes in semester two. The students will then complete a project before the end of the programme at the end of February 2023.
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Mumbai mixologist enjoying online study experience (May 23 2022)
When offshore online student Mrinal Mahendra Govekar isn’t busy with his studies he can be found working as a bartender and mixologist in Mumbai, India.
Mrinal is pursuing a Master of Applied Management with us. He says he took up the study opportunity to learn more about business handling and organising his own business in the future.
He selected New Zealand because of its advanced education system and the natural ambiance the country has to offer.
Mrinal decided to study at OPAIC because of great testimonies from many of his peers and colleagues who were previously enrolled here.
He says the learning experience at OPAIC is different and unique. His professors and the Student Success Team were a huge help while he was adapting to the new experience of studying online.
Outside of study, Mrinal loves to participate in cocktail competitions and show off his innovations.
He also loves music production, plays piano, and loves to explore and discover beautiful new landscapes.
Mrinal hopes to continue his degree onshore now that borders are open. He’d also like to work in the hospitality field here and hone his bartending skills further.
When you see Mrinal, tell him your best bartender joke and you may get a free drink.
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Nurturing links with industry (August 18 2022)
OPAIC Employability Manager, Dani Mao, visited our industry partner City Forex recently and was impressed with the support they’re providing to our internship students and alumni.
City Forex is a New Zealand-based company providing Foreign Exchange and Western Union Money Transfer Services.
Dani says City Forex provides a welcoming environment to our internship students, offering onboarding programmes as online modules.
Three of our students who interned at the company have gone on to work full-time there. City Forex has supported these alumni employees by continuing to provide full pay during low business due to the pandemic.
Dani says one of our current internship students was on duty when she visited recently, and he showed huge appreciation for the work-integrated learning opportunity.
Dani says she has been particularly impressed with our strong relationship with City Forex’s managing director Sunil Kumar, who also serves on the polytechnic’s Permanent External Advisory Committee.
The committee helps us continue to provide programmes that are relevant, up to date, and responsive to industry needs.
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A magnificent flying machine (August 17 2022)
Tears, cheers and applause greeted the inaugural flight of an Otago Polytechnic student-built plane this week.
Otago Polytechnic Engineering boffins, former students and others gathered at the Otago Aero Club on 16 August and were soon on cloud 9 as the moment they had long anticipated came to fruition in a whirr of propellor blades.
The project was the brainchild of the late Stuart Allan, Principal Engineering Lecturer, who had a vision to provide a challenging and engaging means by which students could learn high-level Engineering skills.
Members of Stuart’s family were present at the launch and were visibly moved at they watched the machine roar into the blue sky on a late-winter afternoon.
Stuart’s wife, Janice, was elated with the outcome.
"It’s very emotional today to see his baby flying. It’s incredible."
From 2018 to 2020, Bachelor of Engineering Technology and New Zealand Diploma in Engineering students painstakingly constructed the Vans RV12 aeroplane.
Registered as ZK OPT (ZK for New Zealand and OPT for Otago Polytechnic), the kitset plane has been purchased by the Otago Aero Club.
The plane, which has a 9m wingspan and detachable wings (so it can be transported on a trailer), has played a starring role at previous Otago Polytechnic Engineering Showcases, which celebrate a range of innovative solutions to real-world challenges.
The project was overseen by a licensed aircraft engineer, an Engineering graduate from Otago Polytechnic, and has also been assessed by Civil Aviation. In addition, the Otago Aero Club has undertaken a series of tests.
Otago Polytechnic graduate Mitch Sim, now a civil engineer with Fulton Hogan, did a lot of the electrical engineering on the plane while he was a student.
"It was a really cool opportunity — something that not many people would get to do. It’s awesome to see a project this big and ambitious come to fruition.”
Otago Aero Club flying instructor Colin Chalmers, who took the plane on its maiden flight, says it will eventually be used to train pilots.
He described its inaugural flight as "awesome".
“It flies beautifully. It’s very agile. The way the aircraft was built and with all the pre-flight checks that were done, it just flies the way it should do."
Otago Polytechnic engineering technician William Early, who picked up the project and was instrumental in helping the students build the plane, was equally happy with the result of many hundreds of hours of effort.
“Stuart’s vision was to have a real-world project that would inspire students from a range of disciplines to learn, to collaborate and work together towards a highly technical outcome.
“What a wonderful moment. To share in this experience while also thinking about Stuart . . . well, it’s both inspiring and humbling.”
See the One News coverage
Read the Otago Daily Times article
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Celebrating secondary students’ artistic talents (August 16 2022)
The Celebrate Art Secondary Schools Art Awards 2022 have attracted a range of exciting and accomplished works.
Now in their eighth year, the Dunedin School of Art-hosted awards open today, 16 August, and feature entries by year-12 and year-13 pupils from a range of Otago secondary schools.
The overall winner – to be announced at an awards night on 23 August – will receive a scholarship to cover fees for the first semester of a second-year programme within Otago Polytechnic’s Dunedin School of Art. The top individual entries from each school also receive a Certificate of Excellence.
Details:
CELEBRATE: Otago Secondary Schools Art Awards Exhibition 2022
Exhibition runs until 25 August
DSA Gallery, Ground Floor, P Block, Riego St (off Albany St), Dunedin
Gallery hours: Monday to Friday, 10am-4pm (visitors and small groups welcome; masks required to be worn at all times)
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Congratulations to the Nuggets (August 15 2022)
Otago Polytechnic congratulates the Otago Nuggets, who are National Basketball League champions for the second time in three years.
The Nuggets beat home team Auckland Tuatara in Auckland in the final on Saturday, 13 August, to complete a dream season.
We are proud to be a sponsor of the Nuggets, a partnership that has seen a range of Polytechnic students involved as interns this season.
Behind every good team there is often another team – a crew of people who, although largely unseen, provide invaluable support, energy and insights.
In the case of the Nuggets franchise, no fewer than 15 Otago Polytechnic students have been involved in helping them navigate their 2022 season.
Caption: Otago Polytechnic CEO Dr Megan Gibbons congratulates Otago Nuggets coach Brent Matehaere, who visited our Dunedin Campus yesterday, bringing with him the National Basketball League trophy.
Read more here
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Student Testimonial: Kashmira Vikas More (August 15 2022)
A passion for directing theatre led to an interest in management for student Kashmira Vikas More.
Kashmira was involved in theatre from an early age. As a child, she acted in regional television serials. She also studied at a college well known for theatre and intercollege competitions.
She especially loves directing plays and that’s what got her interested in the management of people.
“It included planning, organising, and giving instructions. That’s why I decided I should do management studies. I knew I would enjoy it and I was correct,” she says.
Kashmira began her study with OPAIC online, completing a Postgraduate Certificate in Applied Management from her home in India.
“It was fantastic. There wasn’t a day when I thought this is a gap, or my professor is not available, or I’m not getting that support which I require,” she says.
She was also the Online Student Representative for her cohort and collected feedback from other students about their experiences.
“I never came across a concerning issue,” she says.
Kashmira was able to get early entry to New Zealand through a Government border exemption for tertiary students and is now on campus studying for her Master of Applied Management.
She says it’s great to finally be here on campus having face-to-face conversations and connecting with people in person.
“You can make more friends. You can connect easily. It’s a different experience.”
Kashmira previously completed a Bachelor of Commerce and Master of Human Resources in India and worked in Human Resources for more than seven years.
She decided to enrol with OPAIC because she wanted to get some international experience in a broader field. She says the courses in OPAIC’s Master of Applied Management are very interesting and cover everything the market needs right now.
Kashmira’s confident she’ll be able to succeed in any area of management once she completes the degree. She hopes to go into a role such as project manager, systems administrator, or information systems manager.
“I would love to get into analytics. Particularly process analysis.”
Kashmira arrived in New Zealand just three weeks ago. She looks forward to travelling the country, doing some hiking, and perhaps getting involved in Auckland’s theatre scene.
But for now, she’s focused on her study and enjoying life on campus.
“Sometimes I wish this year would never end. I want to live every moment,” she says.
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Watch livestream of all staff hui with Peter Winder here (August 12 2022)
Watch livestream of all staff hui with Peter Winder here
To watch the livestream of Te Pūkenga Acting Chief Executive Peter Winder at our all staff hui please click on the below link:
The livestream will be recorded and available to watch after the hui for those unable to attend.
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Success Story: Guillaume Mallet (August 9 2022)
Guillaume Mallet turned his life around by coming to New Zealand as an international student.
He says his studies were “terrible” before he left France, and he only did the minimum required. His hometown contained a lot of distractions and bad influences making it hard for him to focus.
“I thought, I can’t just stay here, because I’m going to end up like everyone else,” he says.
“I didn’t have a lot of options. It was either following that way or probably end up in jail or worse or using my studies to do something better, and I chose to focus on my studies.”
Guillaume decided to come to New Zealand to study on the recommendation of a French-Māori family he knew from his days surfing in the South of France.
Fortunately, New Zealand was one of the few countries which recognised a technical qualification he had previously completed in negotiation and client relationships. That meant he could gain his bachelor’s degree here in just one year.
Guillaume has now completed three qualifications through OPAIC, starting with the New Zealand Certificate in English Language, then going onto the final year of the Bachelor of Applied Management, before progressing to the Master of Applied Management.
He says the main reason he was able to go from being such a bad student in France to knuckling down here in New Zealand was that he enjoyed his study here.
“Being a student is completely different in France.”
In France, you just listened to the teacher and don’t get the chance to participate, he says.
“Here, whatever problem you raise, the teacher will do everything possible to help you.”
The student support and the way lecturers structured the course made a real difference to him.
Guilliame says every qualification he gained came with a huge feeling of achievement and he’s also built social connections in the country.
He came here alone when he was just 20 but he’s made friends from many cultures on campus. He’s also met his partner, an Indian-Kiwi, here in New Zealand.
Now that Guilliame is finished his study he’s working at a restaurant and going through the process of applying for his Post Study Work Visa. His goal is to get into strategic consulting.
“That’s my main goal for the moment, that’s where I want to go.”
His advice for current and future students is not to hesitate to ask if they have any questions or issues.
“There will always be someone to help you. Every time I asked for help or for anything, I always got a positive answer,” he says.
“OPAIC is really unique. When you talk to other uni students, they don’t have all the student support we have here. So, I think we should really take advantage of that environment.”
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Success Story: Yashraj Chhabra (August 2 2022)
Yashraj Chhabra loved the practicality of his programme at OPAIC and is putting the skills he learned to use in his banking job.
Yashraj came to New Zealand from India in 2015 and completed a bachelor’s degree in business at AUT majoring in accounting. Soon after graduating, he began working in investments at Westpac Bank.
When Yashraj decided to return to school to complete a postgraduate qualification, he weighed up his options and decided to try a new institute.
“Otago came to mind because one of my friends studied here earlier,” he says.
Yashraj says one of the best things about OPAIC was the practicality of the programme. Lessons and assignments were based on real businesses and case studies.
“That helped me the most and that was the most interesting part.”
He gained top marks for some courses he’d initially thought he wouldn’t be interested in, including Analytics for Managers and Corporate Governance.
“Going from aiming for fifty percent to getting ninety percent in the final assessment is because of how my interest was developed because of how the courses have been set,” he says.
“So that’s what I love and that’s what I’ve kept saying to my lecturers. This is the best that I could have hoped for.”
He says he received outstanding support from his lecturers. Even academic staff who weren’t teaching him at the time were available to help him.
“So those long-term relationships are what I’ll be taking away from Otago,” he says.
Much of his programme was delivered online due to Auckland’s lockdown but Yashraj says he enjoyed the online experience.
He was, however, grateful to get onto the campus and finally meet his classmates in person and make some friends.
Yashraj has continued to work part-time at Westpac during his study and says he’s already putting lessons from his programme to use at work.
Just before he completed his course, he secured a new full-time position at the bank, which he will begin this month. He is excited to be moving from investments to the lending side of the bank.
Long-term he hopes to stay with the bank as there are so many different opportunities there. He would like to become an adviser or mortgage specialist one day.
“If you work for a bank, you never get bored,” he says.
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Four cheers for Otago Brew School beers (July 26 2022)
Otago Polytechnic’s beer brewing expertise has come to a healthy head once again, with Otago Brew School winning four medals at the recent New Zealand Beer Awards 2022.
The Cromwell Campus-based Otago Brew School entered six categories in the New Zealand Brewers Guild Awards – and won a silver and three bronze medals.
A testament to the expertise within our brewing programmes, Otago Brew School’s “Klassenbester” Dunkelweizen won a silver medal and our “Dark Matter” Oatmeal Stout, “Brau-schule” Kolsch and “Hidden Number” Pale Ale claimed bronzes.
“I think the awards highlight the programmes, as well as our philosophy of teaching students how to brew beers that are true to style, all within a teaching environment,” says Geoff Collie, Otago Brew School Lecturer.
“The recipes and ingredients are what would usually be expected for each style. We then apply good brewing practice and processes to make the best beer we can.
“Students are involved as ‘understudies’ to our brewing staff in making these commercial beers,” Geoff explains.
“Our students also have the opportunity to brew on a smaller scale and develop their own recipes, a few of which have been produced on a commercial scale. Our Czech Dark lager is an example. It was developed by one of last year’s students and sold locally.”
Read the ODT article
Read more about Otago Polytechnic’s brewing programmes here
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Boiler out of action (July 26 2022)
Unfortunately, one of our boilers is out of action due to a critical fault.
We have an engineer working on the problem, but the boiler must cool down completely before the repairs can begin, and we must wait for parts to become available.
The good news is that we have a second boiler that will run at full power around the clock while we wait for repairs. However, this does mean that the heating will be less effective than usual.
We know this is not ideal in the current winter conditions. Thank you for understanding, and remember to wear your woollies.
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Wait finally over for offshore students (July 26 2022)
Raul Penaranda is excited to have finally made it to New Zealand where he can now meet his classmates and lecturers in person and explore all the attractions the country has to offer.
He is one of a number of students who have been able to enter the country slightly early through a government border exemption.
Raul was studying the Postgraduate Certificate in Applied Management online with us from his home in the Philippines. He is now studying for his Master of Applied Management here on campus.
Raul says his online study experience was challenging but also fun. He enjoyed the group work because it gave him a chance to get to know classmates.
Assessments were tough at first because he hadn’t been a student for ten or fifteen years. APA formatting was a challenge, but he got the hang of it after the first assessment with some help from our Learning Support Team.
In his second block of study, he became OPAIC’s online Student Representative and arranged a special online session for new students to help them understand APA.
Raul says the Student Representative experience was very positive as it allowed him to meet staff and students and get a taste of the New Zealand work culture.
He’s only been in the country a week and has already secured a part-time job as a Sales and Photography Assistant at Magic Memories at Sky City.
Now that Raul’s finally in New Zealand, he’s looking forward to learning face-to-face and meeting the friends he made online in person.
He’s also looking forward to seeing the sights of New Zealand, especially Queenstown. He’d like to do some of New Zealand’s great walks but says he might need to save those until after he graduates.
In the meantime, he wants to check out some local sites like Piha Beach. He’s already joined a Meetup group that organises local hikes.
One of the reasons he chose to study in New Zealand was because of all of these experiences he’d get to enjoy here.
His wife and daughter planned to join him here in October so the family will be able to explore the country together. He says they’ve never been to New Zealand before but were inspired by photos and videos.
Back home Raul worked in corporate training and learning and development handling everything from sales to the implementation of solutions.
He says there could be some remote opportunities available to him in the same field after he graduates or he might end up doing something entirely different.
“I’m open to whatever opportunities come along.”
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Celebrating our offshore student arrivals (July 22 2022)
Today we welcomed our first cohort of offshore students to the campus since the border closed more than two years ago.
Many of those joining us in this intake were students who began their study offshore and then were able to enter the country through the Government’s border exemption for a limited number of tertiary students.
To mark the special occasion, this cohort of students was also presented with Tū Ngātahi pins. The pins have a twist design symbolising the connectedness between cultures. Students each received two pins – one to keep and one to gift to a friend.
Group Deputy Chief Executive Corporate Services, Amin Soleimani, said we were today welcoming students from 13 different countries.
“This diversity that you’re bringing to this campus is something that we’re very proud of and something that we celebrate.”
He told the students that here at OPAIC, we believe our people, including students, staff, and alumni, make a better world.
Capability development is at the core of what we do, and our mission is to build capability for a global world. We structure the student journey to allow us to achieve that, he said.
Today’s on-campus Orientation included a campus tour, introductions to staff, an Employability introduction, and an academic orientation. We are also conducting an online Orientation for offshore students this week.
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Friends of Hocken Award invites applications (July 21 2022)
The Friends of the Hocken Collections is offering an award of NZ$10,000 to support a research project on some aspect of the historical development of culture and society in New Zealand, primarily using the resources of the Hocken Collections.
As in previous rounds, The Friends of the Hocken Collections Award 2023 is creatively broad. Salient aspects such as the project’s medium, genre, scope, and purpose are prescription-free. Both collaborative and singular applications are welcome.
The Closing Date for the Award to be held in the calendar year 2023 is 15 October 2022. Applicants will be advised of the competition result by 30 November 2022.
Detailed application information is available on the Friends of the Hocken Collections Inc. website
Background to the awards
To mark the occasion of its 25th anniversary in 2016, the Friends of the Hocken Collections (FOHC) offered an award of NZ$10,000 to support a research project on some aspect of the historical development of culture and society in New Zealand, primarily using the resources of the Hocken Collections.
Joint winners of the anniversary Award were Laurence Fearnley and Paul Hersey (for work undertaken in 2017), and their book, To the Mountains: A Collection of NZ Alpine Writing, was the very pleasing result.
In addition, as the Award competition had attracted a wide range of applications – for many eminently fundable projects in which the Hocken Collections’ resources were of vital or key importance – the Friends’ executive committee resolved to continue to offer The Friends of the Hocken Collections Award as funding permits. The winner of the second Award (for tenure in 2020) was Dr Jonathan West for field work and research towards his proposed book Mirrors on the Land: Histories of New Zealand’s Lakes.
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Design students upcycle for charity (July 20 2022)
A group of resourceful Otago Polytechnic Design students have been rummaging through op-shop shelves as part of an upcycling project for charity.
The students have been collaborating with the New Zealand Red Cross Dunedin Op Shop as part of a three-week course elective, “Retooled”, which will culminate in a charity auction of upcycled products at Otago Polytechnic’s Hub on Friday 22 July.
Ellen Ross, who is completing a Postgraduate Diploma in design (Fashion), created a patchwork denim jacket from op-shop cast-offs.
"I decided to use denim because I’d always fancied doing some patchwork with that fabric.
"I really like that it’s quite robust and hard wearing, so I could make something that was hopefully going to have a long life."
Ellen says she was attracted to the project because it aimed to reduce the amount of items going to landfill.
"These things can be reused and can be upcycled into something desirable again."
Ellen and her fellow students’ work will be displayed in the Hub from Wednesday 20 July until Friday 22 July.
“From clothing to accessories, furniture, artworks, homewares and other objects, the students have retooled, redesigned, recycled and re-used a range of existing products, focusing on design for social good, and incorporating the values of sustainable practice/kaitiakitanga and collaboration/kotahitanga,” says Tracy Kennedy, Principal Lecturer, Otago Polytechnic School of Design.
“All the re-designed works will be credited to designers, enabling them to profile their creativity and making skills in a public setting,” says Tania Allan-Ross, Principal Lecturer, Otago Polytechnic School of Design.
“The proceeds from Friday night’s auction will go to New Zealand Red Cross – to be used for social good.”
Read the Otago Daily Times article (and watch the video) here
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Game Jam looming (July 18 2022)
Otago Polytechnic is set to host the Dunedin Schools Game Jam.
The event is open to Dunedin high school students at years 12 and 13, and will run over the weekend of 22-24 July.
Students will form teams and be assigned a theme on the inaugural night, and then spend the next 48 hours designing and building a fully-fledged game.
Game Jam will culminate in a mini showcase of games on Sunday evening which includes food and the chance to win spot prizes.
Dunedin Schools Game Jam is running alongside Kiwi Jam, a national game development competition for adults.
“Over the past several years, Dunedin has firmly established itself as a viable destination for major game studios,” Otago Polytechnic Information Technology Principal Lecturer Adon Moskal says.
“Now, with the help of the New Zealand Centre of Digital Excellence (CODE), Otago Polytechnic is proud to be able to host an event that offers budding game developers a taste of this exciting industry.”
Recent estimates have put the New Zealand games industry’s worth at over 300 million, with an annual growth of more than 40%. Tech companies, both in New Zealand and globally, are in need of specialist game designers and developers.
Recognising this growth, Otago Polytechnic has created game development pathways within relevant existing qualifications.
Our Bachelor of Information Technology and Bachelor of Design (Communication) degrees offer a focus on gaming development.
Learners will graduate with the wider skills and knowledge within those degree programmes, as well as be armed with a portfolio of skills and experience tailored to the games industry.
To be held in D Block, the Dunedin Schools Game Jam is a golden opportunity for students to see if game development might be a pathway they could follow into the New Zealand games industry’s bright future.
Read more about Otago Polytechnic’s game pathways
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Graduate Success Story: Ishant Ghulyani (July 13 2022)
OPAIC graduate and former Student Representative Ishant Ghulyani is loving his role at the High Commission of India.
Ishant began as Consular Executive in December 2020. Soon after that, the High Commissioner himself promoted him to the role of Culture and Community Affairs Executive.
He’s recently been promoted once again to the dual roles of Commercial, Marketing and Information Assistant and Social Secretary to the High Commissioner.
Ishant studied the Graduate Diploma in Applied Management at OPAIC and was the campus’s very first Student Representative.
He says he has great memories of his time at OPAIC and is particularly grateful for the support of the Student Success Team.
He remains in touch with many OPAIC staff and often runs into fellow alumni.
“They say Otago and then I smile,” he says.
Ishant has fond memories of organising events including Graduation, as well as of teaching Indian dance to children and staff at a Kids on Campus school holiday event.
He says he’s been using skills he gained during his study and Student Representative work in his roles at the commission.
Duties have included planning events for thousands of people, making daily political reports, answering trade queries, social media, public relations, and graphic design.
Ishant says he first learned to create posters as part of his industry project.
“That was the starting point and now for all the High Commission posters which you see on our website and social media, I’m the one who is making those, I can proudly say that.”
Ishant graduated in November 2019. He then returned home to India for a holiday, arriving back in New Zealand just a few hours before the borders closed. He’s just received his New Zealand residency which he is delighted about.
Ishant has a diverse range of interests outside of work.
He is co-president of the Young Professionals Programme at the United Nations Association of New Zealand. He also takes part in modelling photoshoots and has volunteered for a range of organisations including the Graeme Dingle Foundation, Citizens Advice Bureau, the Cancer Society, and the Blind Foundation.
His advice for current students is “work is worship” and the nature of the job doesn’t matter too much at first.
Ishant worked nights at a petrol station as a student and says the owner of that business had recently come to Wellington and met up with him.
“He came to the High Commission. He saw my desk and everything. He was so proud.”
Ishant says if you keep working hard and always be kind and down to earth, you’ll get the success you deserve.
“Always believe your luck and make sure you always work hard.”
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Celebrating our graduates (July 1 2022)
This week’s graduation ceremony was an extra special one because of the challenges our latest batch of graduates have had to overcome in order to succeed.
At yesterday’s ceremony, Otago Polytechnic Board Chair Adam La Hood praised the perseverance of graduates who had faced extended lockdowns and online learning during their studies.
“You had to adapt, dig deep, and trust that our Otago Polytechnic Auckland International Campus team would get you through.”
Now that they’d completed their qualifications, they possessed the skills they needed to achieve great things, he said.
“I’m confident that with these new skills and the experience you have gained during your time at Otago Polytechnic Auckland International Campus, success will come.”
Adam said having an international campus was an opportunity to bring many cultures, beliefs, religions, and ideas together.
“That diversity is what makes Otago Polytechnic Auckland International Campus so special and distinctly unique.”
Graduate Diploma in Applied Management graduate, Christiaan Bredenkamp, gave the student address at yesterday’s ceremony.
Chris arrived on our campus in October 2020 from South Africa. His intelligence, open-mindedness, and patience made him a valuable Student Ambassador. He later became the campus Student Representative and has since joined the OPAIC team of staff.
Chris said this he and his fellow graduates had succeeded not only of their own accord but thanks to the support they gave each other as well as the love and support they’d received from family and friends in New Zealand and abroad.
A lot had been expected from this week’s graduates due to rapidly changing circumstances over the past year, he said.
“You have all shown your determination, your tenacity, your strength, your willingness to carry on no matter the challenge,” said Chris.
“I believe that we will all leave here as changed individuals, moulded not only by what we learned but what we faced and overcame during our studies.”
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Electrical student through to final of Apprentice Challenge (June 30 2022)
An Otago Polytechnic electrical student has won the Dunedin round of the Master Electricians Apprentice Challenge.
Kent Marshall, who is an apprentice with Switchbuild, won the “Industrial” category of the Dunedin event, held at the Otago University Union last week, and has qualified for the national finals in Wellington in October.
“I’m a bit nervous about the final,” Kent says. “But I feel I have responsibility to both Switchbuild and Otago Polytechnic to do my best.
“They have both been really supportive to me and really helped me start my career.”
Kent graduated with a Bachelor of Engineering Technology (Electrical Engineering) at the end of 2021 and was successful in gaining employment with Switchbuild through Otago Polytechnic’s industry connections.
Kent is now completing a managed apprenticeship through Otago Polytechnic and is hoping to qualify and gain electrical registration by early 2024. Kent has also worked for Otago Polytechnic as a technician over the summer holidays.
Otago Polytechnic learners dominated the Industrial section of the Dunedin event, with Raymond Stevenson finishing section and Sam Pitchers taking third place.
“This is fantastic news”, says Dr Megan Gibbons, Chief Executive Otago Polytechnic. “It shows once again how our teaching is closely aligned to relevant industry skills.”
Staff from the Otago Polytechnic’s Electrical programme attended the event to support half a dozen of its electrical learners, taking the opportunity to network with local electrical industry representatives.
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OP to fly Tino Rangitiratanga flag (June 28 2022)
Otago Polytechnic has chosen to fly the Tino Rangatiratanga flag alongside the New Zealand one.
“This is an exciting step forward,” says Dr Megan Gibbons, Chief Executive of Otago Polytechnic.
“Otago Polytechnic has flown the Māori flag in the past, but not as a permanent fixture.”
Although an exact date has yet to be decided, the Tino Rangatiratanga flag, otherwise known as the Māori flag, will fly underneath the New Zealand flag (on the same flagpole).
“We have worked with the Otago Polytechnic Students’ Association to arrive at this point,” Dr Gibbons says.
“This decision shows we listen to our learners, and that we acknowledge the opinions and knowledge of others.”
“The Tino Rangatiratanga flag is a symbol of this land and complements the New Zealand flag. Flying the two flags together upholds and enhances our relationship with tākata whenua,” Dr Gibbons says.
The decision, announced this week, follows a recommendation from Otago Polytechnic Board’s Māori advisory committee, Kōmiti Kāwanataka, as well as a recent survey of tauira and kaimahi.
The Kōmiti (comprising rūnaka members) recommended that the flag be flown as they felt it represented the student Māori voice. A survey was then conducted to allow all students and staff a voice in the consultation process.
The elements of the Tino Rangatiratanga flag represent the three realms:
- Te Korekore, potential being (black, top)
- Te Whai Ao, coming into being (red, bottom)
- Te Ao Mārama, the realm of being and light (white, centre).
The koru is symbolic of a curling fern frond, representing the unfolding of new life, hope for the future and the process of renewal.
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Apprentice electricians in heat of competition (June 23 2022)
More than half a dozen Otago Polytechnic electrical apprentices are competing in the Dunedin round of the Master Electricians Apprentice Challenge on Thursday 23 June.
The winners of the Dunedin event, held at the Otago University Union, qualify for the national finals in Wellington in October.
Staff from Otago Polytechnic’s Electrical programmes attended the event to support the learners and take the opportunity to network with local electrical industry representatives.
The OP tradies included Tyrone Jones, who is currently studying managed apprenticeship night classes and block courses at Otago Polytechnic and is set to graduate and qualify as an electrician in 2023. Tyrone completed his NZ Certificate in Electrical Engineering Theory with Otago Polytechnic in 2021. He won the Student of the Year award and has since gained an apprenticeship with Aotea, working in the commercial sector.
Another was Kent Marshall, who graduated with a Bachelor of Engineering Technology (Electrical Engineering) at the end of 2021 and was successful in gaining employment with Switchbuild through Otago Polytechnic’s industry connections. Kent is now completing a managed apprenticeship with Otago Polytechnic and is hoping to qualify and gain electrical registration by early 2024. Kent has also worked for Otago Polytechnic as a technician over the summer holidays.
Also, Campbell Craig graduated with a NZ Certificate in Electrical Engineering Theory in 2021 and is currently completing his managed apprenticeship with Switchbuild. He is aiming to complete his apprenticeship and qualify as an electrician in 2023.
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Exam support volunteers urgently needed (June 22 2022)
There is an urgent need to find volunteers to help provide exam support for a number of our tauira.
With exams beginning on 28 June (and continuing until the end of the academic year) including some Saturdays, our Student Support team is wanting to hear from staff prepared to volunteer time as reader/writers/supervision support to help tauira with their support needs.
A full induction will be provided.
Please check with your formal leader before registering your interest.
Please register your interest as soon as possible at accessibility@op.ac.nz
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Topical research projects showcased (June 22 2022)
Six students presented their research as part of the OPAIC Student Research Forum on Tuesday 24 May. This is the first time since the middle of 2021 that the students have been able to present on campus.
Applied Management HOD, Russell Harray, says the standard of the presentations was high, and all research was very topical. Four students were from the postgraduate area, either completing the Profession Project or their Master’s thesis. The other two students were presenting their internship research from the undergraduate area.
The audience was made up of academics, students, and other staff. The aim of each presentation was to update the progress made on each research project and to get feedback before the final submission of the formal research report.
The presentations were all of good quality with most of them relevant to the OPAIC campus. The session finished with lunch and an ongoing discussion between staff and the students. It also provided an opportunity for new research students to discuss further research projects at the postgraduate level.
Presenters:
Tong Si Wai – Enhancing church growth using design thinking for Mountainside Lutheran Church.
Meena Rani – Impact of Emotional Intelligence on employee performance and job satisfaction in the aged care industry.
Prabhjot Kaur - Investigation into the psychological impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Indian immigrants working in the retail industry of Auckland, New Zealand, and their Job performance at work.
Prasadie Silva - Barriers and facilitators to healthy eating and physical activity of office-based workers in New Zealand.
Ha Duong – How can OPAIC activate strategic objectives to embed sustainable practice and ensure benefits for the community?
Matthew Tongohan – Green Office Toitu, how to effectively use social media to promote GOT’s sustainability initiatives.
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Gaining project management skills via internship (June 22 2022)
Qi (Joanna) Wang has gained valuable work experience, learned new skills, and expanded her understanding of sustainability during her internship.
Joanna has been completing an internship with the Green Office Toitū at OPAIC. The office is all about supporting sustainability initiatives on campus.
As part of her internship, Joanna has been working as a Project Manager for the Aureate Reforestation Project in Waihi. Her role includes recruiting students to volunteer to plant trees, arranging their trips, then gathering feedback from students to pass along to the project organisers.
It also includes everything from keeping an eye on the weather forecast to organising meals that cater to everybody’s dietary requirements. She also plans social activities for after the work is finished.
Joanna says she’s learned to design newsletters, promote events to students, and write professional emails to stakeholders during her internship too.
Joanna has now developed an interest in project management. She would like to find a job related to marketing or project management after she graduates.
“I’ve got some experience and I love to engage with people and communicate with them.”
She says working with others in this way gives her a sense of community.
Joanna is glad she made the decision to study at OPAIC.
“I’ve made a lot of friends here. I also enjoy the study because the lecturers are very supportive.”
“They take care of all of their students, helping us with our assignments and any other issues in our lives.”
She loves the small class sizes and one-on-one support and credits her lecturers with helping her win an Excellent Scholar Award for top academic performance during her course work.
She wants to thank OPAIC for the internship opportunity.
“It’s allowed me to get valuable work experience and learn new skills and also expand my understanding of sustainability.”
She says she has learned a lot about this area from both an academic and practical perspective during her study. All of her courses could be related back to sustainability.
She’ll be able to take this knowledge back to China one day, as she says the country also cares about sustainability. But for now, she’d like to get a few years of work experience in New Zealand.
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OP to launch another video games pathway. (June 22 2022)
Otago Polytechnic is introducing another video games-related study pathway.
Open to learners from July, the new Game Design pathway sits within the New Zealand Certificate in Digital Media and Design (Level 4).
Developed in collaboration with Swedish-based Futuregames, regarded among the best game development learning providers in the world, the Game Design pathway will focus on creating virtual worlds for games or work within the field of virtual production.
Learners will explore world building, content creation and game design using Unreal Engine, a widely used game engine that can be harnessed for a range of environments, including PC, PlayStation, XBox, Nintendo Switch, iOS, and Android.
The programme will also enable students to learn about real-time 3D art and design, lighting and atmospherics, interactive logic and narrative game design.
“The programme has been developed and our amazing staff are ready to go,” says Prof Federico Freschi, Head of College: Te Maru Pumanawa College of Creative Practice and Enterprise.
“It has capacity for 19 students in Semester 2, which starts in July, and we are accepting enrolments now.
“This offering builds on our existing suite of games-related programmes and taps into our growing expertise in empowering people into careers in the fast-growing gaming industry,” Prof Freschi says.
“We have assembled a multidisciplinary learning team dedicated to building games industry-ready graduates.”
New Zealand’s games scene is fast becoming a multi-million-dollar industry. Game development studios, both in New Zealand and globally, are in need of specialist game designers and programmers.
Learners who complete the Game Design pathway in the New Zealand Certificate in Digital Media and Design might also wish to continue their Game Design focus by enrolling in a Bachelor of Design (Communication) at Otago Polytechnic.
Those interested in the creative or technical elements of making video games can also choose to study Otago Polytechnic’s Bachelor of Information Technology or Bachelor of Design (Communication), which offer pathways focused on games.
Otago Polytechnic’s game design and game development pathways are supported by the New Zealand Centre of Digital Excellence (CODE), with which it is a partner.
Otago Polytechnic recently signed an MOU with Futuregames, which will provide professional development for staff, mentoring for student projects, review and feedback on Otago Polytechnic’s games courses, as well as a range of learning materials.
Visit www.op.ac.nz/game-pathway for more information.
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Mural celebrates Māori connections (June 20 2022)
A mural celebrating Māori connections with the land aims to uphold the mana of tauira, making them feel more included in the physical space of Otago Polytechnic’s Dunedin campus.
The mural, titled Haumanu, graces the wall of the Tauraka Pipipi building on Union St East, and helps define the area where the Pōpopo Wormporium is sited.
Originally from Wellington, Bella Maresca graduated from with a Bachelor of Design in 2021. She designed the mural as part of a client-based project within her degree.
“Pōpopo’s kaupapa around building regenerative practices in our community definitely attracted me to the project and motivated me to work hard and create something that would start conversations,” Bella explains.
Selected to create the mural after the design pipped three other contenders in a poll, Bella’s vision explores kaitiakitaka, a collective responsibility of living things to nurture and protect the earth.
“One of the first things I identified while working on this project in 2021 was that Pōpopo’s values are informed by a Māori worldview.
“The regenerative and sustainable practices we see in an Aotearoa context have been inspired by that of kaitikitaka practices. I felt that in order to authentically represent the kaupapa of Pōpopo, Māori stories and values needed to be present in the physical space.
“As a pakeha artist, I knew that it was important to collaborate with a Māori creative on the project,” Bella reflects.
“So I teamed up with Eva Meeuws, a Māori designer who is studying a Bachelor of Design (Communication) at Otago Polytechnic.
“Eva worked on the beautiful moko designs and found ways to incorporate more traditional kowhaiwhai designs into the mural.”
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Celebrating the Green Office Toitū (June 15 2022)
Our Green Office Toitū team held an event this week to celebrate the office and raise awareness of its work.
The Green Office was launched last year to support students and staff to act on sustainability initiatives.
At yesterday’s event, we had the chance to meet the team working in the office.
We heard from project manager and student Joanna Wang about a reforestation project that students are contributing to in Waihi.
We also heard from student Hallie Duong about a FutureFit competition which staff and students took part in. The competition encouraged participants to set actions to reduce their carbon footprint.
Next, Matthew Tongohan, who will soon complete his study spoke about his time interning with the Green Office. He said he was glad to have been involved in something he was passionate about, and he knows the experience will help him in his future career.
The event ended with some games focused on sustainability.
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Otago Polytechnic food event to celebrate rūnaka and Matariki (June 15 2022)
A group of Otago Polytechnic learners have been hard at work preparing and planning a feast to celebrate Matariki in collaboration with EAT NZ, Te Rūnanga o Ōtākau and Kāti Huirapa Rūnaka ki Puketeraki.
“The Feast Matariki event is also about celebrating our whanau and community members who supported our local Covid-19 response,” says Academic Leader Chloe Humphreys.
The event, to be held at Manaaki restaurant on Harbour Terrace, Dunedin, on Thursday 16 June, is also part of the national EAT NZ, Feast Matariki celebrations.
The evening will embrace the kaihaukai concept, which centres on exchanging traditional kai, knowledge and stories between different regions.
Traditionally, different rūnaka had different areas of specialisation with regard to kai, and Matariki was a time when rūnaka joined together to trade and share kai, along with the stories that went with them.
Learners from Otago Polytechnic’s Bachelor of Culinary Arts have been joined by Bachelor of Design (Communications) tauira in a student-led project designed to broaden their knowledge as they embrace the concepts of manaakitaka (ethics of care), kotahitaka (team bonding) and whānaukataka (ethics of relationships).
Significantly, much of the produce for the event has been grown on Otago Polytechnic’s Living Campus.
With gardens surrounding the Dunedin campus, tauira have the opportunity to harvest their own kai and collaborate with kaiako and tauira from the horticulture department to grow and use a range of plants which are often hard to source through other supply chains.
Although organisers wish to retain the surprise elements of the menu, it is safe to say that key elements combine aspects of Matariki with the highly personal food stories of some of the Culinary Arts tauira.
“The event programme includes an explanation from tauira involved in creating the menu. They delve into how they were inspired to come up with their dishes,” Chloe adds.
“It is about more than food. There will be a wider experience to help tell the story, along with speeches from mana whenua and organisers.”
Photos: courtesy Jessica Stevenson/Honey and Hill
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Kaiarahi role an exciting opportunity (June 8 2022)
Jody Takimoana, recently appointed Kaiarahi, Māori Development and Kaitohutohu Office, is excited about his new role, which will see him engaging with and supporting a broad range of Otago Polytechnic teams.
“I’m really excited about working in this space with our staff here at Otago Polytechnic.
“I think OP is doing great mahi building cultural capability, but we still need to hold one another accountable. So part of my mahi is about ensuring people are being supported to achieve our objectives within the MSF (Māori Strategic Framework).
“A key part of my role is to help teams align with the six key areas within the Māori Strategic Framework being Te Tiriti o Waitangi, Kā Kaimahi, Te Taumata Angitu Māori, Kai Eke Panuku, Kia Kōtahi Tātou and Te Rakahau Māori.
“Working with Shaun Tahau, Tumuaki: Whakawhanake, we have short-, medium- and long-term goals, but there are areas we have prioritised and which I’m currently working on in the immediate future.
“These include the College of Engineering, Construction and Living Sciences, as well as People and Culture, Learner Services, and our Cromwell Campus (COT).”
Another important part of Jody’s mahi is working across OP as we transition into Te Pukenga later this year, specifically Te Pai Tawhiti.
“There is still a lot to be done as we build towards January 1, 2023, and the horizons beyond this date.”
Jodym who is of Ngāpuhi whakapapa, was born in Tāmaki-makaurau and raised in various rural towns throughout Aotearoa, including Turangi, Tirau and Ōtepoti.
His philosophy of inclusive decision-making and working with staff and tauira to achieve goals has been a primary focus and built over the years. Before joining Otago Polytechnic, Jody worked at Taieri College as a Physical Education and Health Teacher.
Prior to working in Education, he served in the New Zealand Defence Force (NZ Army) as a Physical Trainer, Recruitment Warrant Officer, and Squadron Sergeant Major. Later in his NZ Army career he held various roles in leadership, delivering both physical and health outcomes for Soldiers, Sailors, and Airforce personnel within Defence.
His qualifications include a Diploma in Business, Bachelor of Sport and Exercise (Major in Management and Coaching), completed through Massey University. He has also recently completed a Graduate Diploma in Secondary Education at Auckland University of Technology.
Whānau and friends are the most important aspect of Jody's life, and he enjoys spending time with those who are close to him. He has always been involved in rugby, in which he has been involved as a player, trainer and, more recently, as a coach.
Diving is another passion of his – “being in the water when the opportunity arises, hopefully to catch some kai for the table, especially paua!”
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Otago Polytechnic learners collaborate for Cancer charity (June 8 2022)
Otago Polytechnic learners from a range of disciplines are combining their brain power for charity.
Tauira studying event management, hairdressing, fashion, beauty and photography are bringing to life Odyssey for a Cure, which will raise funds for Breast Cancer Cure.
To be held at the Sargood Centre on Friday 17 June, the event will feature an evening of fashion featuring New Zealand designers Sara Munro (Company of Strangers) and Charmaine Reveley, along with Otago Polytechnic School of Design fashion students.
The student-led initiative is a good example of our real-world, applied approach to learning, according to Rachel Byars, Principal Lecturer of Otago Polytechnic’s Te Maru Pumanawa: College of Creative Practice and Enterprise.
“What makes learning at Otago Polytechnic great is the hands-on experiences that we offer students.
“For example, our third-year Event Management students are required to bring to life an event for an actual client – in this case, Breast Cancer Cure.
“These opportunities, provided within a safe learning environment, enable them to build a range of capabilities, such as collaborating, communicating and managing time. These are all powerful skills that they will be able to use in their future careers.”
Support our tauira studying event management, hairdressing, fashion, beauty and photography.
Tickets are now on sale at https://www.breastcancercure.org.nz/odyssey-for-a-cure
Your ticket includes: light refreshments, a goody bag to take home, a chance to bid on silent auction items and a raffle prize, and an opportunity to hear about the latest developments in breast cancer research.
All proceeds from the evening will be donated to Breast Cancer Cure. So gather your friends and family for a fun fashion fix!
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Brew School flying high (June 8 2022)
Our Otago Brew School features in the latest edition of Air New Zealand's Kia Ora magazine. Read the article here
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Design learners to fore in international competition (June 8 2022)
Otago Polytechnic School of Design students have shone in an international design competition, Map the System.
Nine students from Otago Polytechnic’s School of Design participated in the Humber University (Toronto) round of Map the System, an Oxford University-based global system thinking competition that aims to stimulate new ways of thinking about social and environmental change.
Otago Polytechnic third-year Bachelor of Design (Product) learners Alice Wassell and Elle (Wiriyapramon) Chotiwanich, joined by two international team-mates, won the Humber University round, which enabled them to compete in the Canadian final, where they claimed the “People’s Choice” award.
Two other Otago Polytechnic teams finished second and fourth in the Humber round of the competition.
Collaborating online, students worked with peers from Canada and Denmark, an arrangement that required careful timetabling to account for time differences.
“It was heartening to see our students take such a leadership role in their projects,” says Machiko Niimi, Head of Product Design, Otago Polytechnic.
“The hard work and accountability shown by Otago Polytechnic students was noted by staff from all institutions. They also demonstrated excellent capability in research, particularly given some competitors were studying at post-graduate level.
“The experience has been huge for all the students involved and is another example of how our learners can be engaged on a global basis while studying at Otago Polytechnic.”
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The Politics of Design book launch (June 7 2022)
Te Maru Pūmanawa | College of Creative Practice & Enterprise at Otago Polytechnic and Ōtepoti He Puna Auaha | Dunedin City of Literature, and the University Book Shop invite you to join us for the launch of The Politics of Design: Privilege and Prejudice in Aotearoa New Zealand, Australia and South Africa (Otago Polytechnic Ltd Press, 2021) edited by Federico Freschi, Jane Venis and Farieda Nazier.
This edited volume offers a unique comparative study of the ways in which white privilege has been embedded in design in these settler-colonial societies. Taking a deliberately broad view of the notion of ‘design’, the book includes multiple indigenous voices amongst its authors, drawn from leading academic institutions in Aotearoa New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, the UK and the USA.
The editors will be joined by some of the authors to introduce the book, and copies will be on sale.
Date: Wednesday, 15 June 2022
Time: 5.00 pm
Venue: The Hub, Otago Polytechnic, Forth Street
RSVP: federicof@op.ac.nz by Monday, 13 JuneIn keeping with OP health and safety guidelines, please note that masks are required to be worn unless you are eating or drinking.
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Supporting senior student researchers toward scholarly publication (June 2 2022)
A group of OPAIC students are taking part in our Advanced Wānanga Kairangahau Workshops, set up to help them take the next step in their research journeys.
These workshops support students to take their research and prepare it for co-publication at conferences or in scholarly journals.
We launched Wānanga Kairangahau in 2021, holding workshops both on-campus and online. These workshops resulted in more than a dozen students having their research accepted for co-publication.
It has been inspiring to see student work in the journal SCOPE, at IEEE conferences, and in OPAIC’s own journal Rere Āwhio – Journal of Applied Research & Practice .
We are now lifting our sights through our Advanced Wānanga Kairangahau workshops, as we target conferences, scholarly journals, and the inaugural Smart Aotearoa - Sustainable Development event, sponsored by OPAIC.
We held our first Advanced Wānanga Kairangahau workshop last week. The event was opened by Deputy Chief Executive Academic, Dr Leoni Schmidt, and supported by several staff who shared their research stories.
Head of IT, Dr Farhad Mehdipour, spoke about the exciting opportunities at the upcoming Smart Aotearoa event, with the call for contribution now open and awards up for grabs.
Employability Lead, Christiaan Bredenkamp, discussed quantitative and qualitative data perspectives.
Staff also spoke about the benefits of publication and joining the research community.
Students were then encouraged to create their own researcher biography for use in publications and at conferences and to start speaking to their lecturers about their publication intentions.
The Advanced Wānanga Kairangahau workshops will:
- Help students develop proficiency in creating written reports and presentations.
- Highlight how assessment research is elevated for scholarly publication.
- Outline different types of submissions and share upcoming submission opportunities.
Principal Lecturer and workshop lead, Marianne Cherrington, says studying and getting a qualification is a huge investment and students are preparing for a better future.
Students are already doing assessments with applied research including theories, citations, and references, she says.
“It makes sense to get the most out of that hard work and investment and co-publish your research.”
During the journey, students will become more proficient and build capabilities in writing and presenting.
“Ultimately, the Wānanga Kairangahau process will support their career goals in many tangible, even unexpected ways,” says Marianne.
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First Impressions results are in! (May 25 2022)
Over the past two weeks, new OPAIC students have been invited to complete our First Impressions Survey.
The survey helps us to see how new learners are settling in and helps us improve our pre-enrolment, student support, and teaching.
The results of the most recent survey are in, and we are pleased to see that most of our new onshore and offshore learners are settling in well.
Results showed that 94% of students who attended Orientation said it made them feel welcome and supported and 95% of respondents agreed or strongly agreed that they are satisfied with their programme so far.
Overall, 77% of respondents said that their experience at Otago Polytechnic so far has been either ‘very good’ or ‘excellent’.
Some students have made suggestions for how we can improve our IT support materials and facilities on campus. We will be working on this feedback in the coming weeks.
A huge thank you to all of our new learners who took the time to provide this valuable feedback. We really appreciate it.
At OPAIC, we understand the importance of your student voice and provide many opportunities throughout the year for students to provide feedback in a safe and confidential environment.
If you would like to know more about the First Impressions Survey or would like a copy of the summary results, please email studentsuccessaic@op.ac.nz.
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OPAIC staff present at Internship Summit (May 25 2022)
OPAIC Employability Manager Dani Mao and Learning and Teaching Specialist Bruno Balducci presented at the 2022 Internship Summit organised by the International Internship Network last Friday.
Their online presentation was entitled “Exploring the flexible delivery of student internships with sustainability projects”.
Dani outlined our internship programme in the context of OPAIC’s vision of developing New Zealand’s most employable graduates.
“The internship programme plays an invaluable role in students transitioning into the workforce,” she says.
She reported on the impact of the Covid lockdown and work restrictions last year, which required a more flexible delivery of the programme.
Dani also outlined different internship models: work placement, entrepreneurial project, hybrid/online project.
One further option offered to students was to do their internship through Green Office Toitū, the campus-wide sustainability hub, offering meaningful professional development learning in exchange for work to progress OPAIC’s sustainability strategy.
Green Office Toitū allows interns to organise events, promote climate action initiatives, share carbon footprint tools, and conduct relevant research projects.
“Meanwhile, students enhance their employability skills, particularly innovation and leadership soft skills,” says Dani.
“Work-integrated learning will become an increasingly important part of the united vocational education system, Te Pukenga, giving people the opportunity and flexibility to education that is more directly relevant to the changing needs of the workplace,” she says.
Bruno followed on from Dani’s presentation with details of our research into students’ perceptions of their internships, with a specific emphasis on learner capabilities and motivation.
“We have found that the capabilities intern students value the most are verbal communication, teamwork, independence, problem solving and responsibility,” says Bruno.
As for motivation, the most striking outcome of the research was the extent to which Green Office students were able to speak with real enthusiasm about what they did, what they have learned from it, and how their commitment to sustainability has grown.
The presentation was very well received, with good engagement from the audience and the event host, including an interesting discussion on soft skills, says Bruno.
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Event to showcase smart sustainability (May 24 2022)
The first Smart Aotearoa - Sustainable Development competition event will take place this November.
The event will bring together experts from a range of sectors to celebrate the smart sustainable development happening across all sections of society in Aotearoa.
It will be a unique opportunity to showcase your innovative technologies, see what others are doing in this space, and build a community of sustainable practitioners. You can learn more about how to contribute your research, projects, or ideas to this event here.
There will be awards given out on the day for the top submissions. The UN’s Sustainable Development Goals will be part of the criteria for selecting the best submissions.
The event is sponsored by OPAIC and Future Skills Academy in partnership with several other subsidiaries of Te Pūkenga, universities, companies, schools, and public organisations. It will take place on Wednesday 30 November at GridAKL at Wynyard Quarter as well as online.
You can check out the new website for Smart-Aotearoa here.
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Nursing students' working bee helps Fijian women (May 23 2022)
An industrious group of Otago Polytechnic year-3 Bachelor of Nursing tauira have swapped vaccination needles for sewing needles to help women from a Fijian village.
Fuelled on chocolate and laughter, the group recently held a working bee and created a large number of sustainable hygiene products for the women of Nasovotava.
The Nasovotava community has approximately 250 people, and an estimated 80-100 women will benefit from the student’s work.
The project has a range of sustainable outcomes.
Having identified a need around women’s health in the Nasovotava community, the students sourced suitable materials for the products from the wider Otago Polytechnic student community.
As well as being supplied a number of completed items, residents will be provided with patterns and instructions for the products, which have a life expectancy of up to six years with proper care and cleaning.
The group’s working bee was inspired by consultation and collaboration with a member of the Dunedin community who comes from the village of Nasovotava and has lived in Dunedin for the past 20 years.
He plans to return to Fiji at the end of the year to deliver the products. However, should those plans change, the materials will be mailed to the Nasovotava community.
The project, part of the School of Nursing’s primary healthcare placements, required third-year learners to work with community stakeholders, including completing a needs assessment.
They then developed a research question from their findings, conducted an evidence-based literature review and developed a suitable and acceptable health promotion resource to benefit the community.
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Master’s graduate lands finance role (May 18 2022)
Master of Applied Management graduate Simranjit Kaur has landed a permanent full-time job at her internship company Cardinal Logistics.
Simranjit spoke to our current students about her internship and work journey recently at an event organised by our Employability Team.
Simranjit has previously worked in a range of roles from duty manager in the hospitality industry to biotechnologist in a stem cell cancer research lab.
When she saw OPAIC was advertising an internship opportunity in finance at Cardinal she decided to give it a go.
Simranjit began as a finance intern at the company last November and just three weeks later, Cardinal offered her a casual contract.
She believes it was the extra effort she put in that helped her to stand out. She was always being proactive and asking for additional jobs to complete, she says.
Now that she’s graduated she’s secured a permanent full-time job at the company handling the finance and pallet operations along with other improvement projects.
She says everything she learned during her research analysis at OPAIC has been very useful in her job, especially the analytical knowledge she gained.
She loves her job and also loves her company. She says Cardinal recently ran a charity event for children with cancer which was a huge success.
Simranjit says she’s seen changes in herself since beginning this internship and employment journey.
She says she has become more confident and bold in the way she speaks, her decision-making, and the way she analyses situations.
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Hybrid celebration for top achievers (May 18 2022)
Our latest Excellent Scholars awards ceremony was celebrated on-campus and online.
At this week’s ceremony, Applied Management Head of Department Russell Harray reflected on our move to online teaching. He said it was two years since classes first moved online due to Covid. Since then, students had been through periods of online and on-campus teaching.
He said one benefit of the move to online study was that we now have students throughout the world studying with us. Some of those students were able to join us online for yesterday’s ceremony.
Excellent Scholars are given out for academic excellence and go to students with top marks. Russell said achieving such marks required motivation, active engagement, the ability to relate theory to practice, time management, and confidence.
Our Excellent Scholars were Qiao Zhang, Mengzhou Li (Simon), Margo Martine Marguerite Ballesta-Torrente, Archana Kethu Balachandran, Chintankumar Patel, Valentina Kurokhtina, Leijun Shi, Sanim Pokhrel, and Shaneel Narayan.
At this week’s ceremony, we also gave out Special Awards to students who deserved recognition for other achievements. They were Raul Jr. Penaranda, Rudra Mukesh Modh, and Lynton Aubrey Matthew Bransby.
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On the quiet – Otago Polytechnic learners help solve a privacy problem (May 17 2022)
A group of Otago Polytechnic Bachelor of Design (Product) learners have been busy solving a problem of the future – ensuring there are places for hospital staff to have sensitive phone calls and conversations in the New Dunedin Hospital.
The New Dunedin Hospital design will provide open-plan workspaces, and will include quiet booths, casual seating areas, meeting rooms and “beverage bays” (mini kitchenettes), enabling staff to work in more collaborative ways.
But open-plan working comes with challenges – including finding somewhere to have a private conversation when meeting rooms are booked.
To help solve this issue, the Otago Polytechnic learners have designed “flexible focus environments” – freestanding, private, noise-reducing pods that staff can use for activities such as telehealth calls with patients.
Working in teams, the students have undertaken research, created mock-ups, and presented prototypes to the New Dunedin Hospital project team.
Examples of their designs have been installed, for a limited time, in the staff café at the current Dunedin Hospital.
Emily Craven, SDHB Anaesthetic Registrar, was one of the first SDHB staff to trial the prototype privacy “pods”.
“You can discuss patient welfare issues or, in fact, anything sensitive with the confidence that your conversation will remain private.
“I could see such spaces being really popular. I recall a university at which I worked having a similar setup and they worked really well. People used the spaces a lot,” Emily says.
Otago Polytechnic School of Design Senior Lecturer Andrew Wallace says there has been a clear design vision to use non-toxic organic materials such as clay, wool, cardboard and other organic materials to reduce sound within the rooms.
“There has also been a focus on disassembly and disposal at end of life.”
Otago Polytechnic Head of Product Design Machiko Niimi says the project has provided a great opportunity for third-year students to work on a real-life problem for real clients.
“The students worked in teams, too. This helps us replicate a real-life design studio experience in a safe learning environment and builds important foundations for our students to be work-ready,” Machiko says.
“The DHB staff were supportive of the human-centred design approach used in our curriculum.
“For example, students were invited to an interview session with doctors and administration staff to hear their first-hand experiences and everyday realities to understand their needs.
“Designing with real users in mind is key to designing a meaningful outcome.”
Third-year Bachelor of Design (Product) learner George Goodger says one of the key challenges was to create a safe place for two people to have a conversation “that can’t be heard from the outside”.
Fellow learner Rosie Graham agrees: “We settled on a curved structure that lessened sound reflections.”
Elle Chotiwanich worked on a different modular design, intended to be easily moved around.
“We had to problem-solve shapes and materials. So we might reach a certain point, then have to go back a few steps and rework the design. I really enjoy that aspect of the design process – reinvestigating my ideas.”
Bridget Dickson, Project Director for the New Dunedin Hospital, says the students have come up with inspiring designs.
“Some of the designs are modular and can be joined together to create bigger spaces, some – such as the design with the grass elements – have been inspired by the natural environment, and some can be configured for multiple uses,” Bridget says.
“It’s heartening to see such skilful, sustainability-focused and imaginative work from the designers of the future.”
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Launching Synergy Health - Wellbeing platform pilot (May 6 2022)
Te Pūkenga is trialing a digital wellbeing platform called Synergy Health. You may have read about it in the latest issue of Ngā Taipitopito.
This is in direct response to feedback shared in the Aromātai Kaimahi survey. Many people said they’d like more ways to support wellbeing. The Synergy Health pilot is one way that Te Pūkenga is responding to this.
Our organisation has chosen to take part in the pilot which launches today.
Synergy Health
Synergy Health is a digital wellbeing platform with educational resources, challenges, competitions and special offers to support your wellbeing.
Whether its fitness, nutrition, sleep, resilience or mindfulness, Synergy Health takes a holistic approach in ways that work for you. It’s personalised to show the things that strengthen your individual wellbeing journey and includes a wide, varied and constantly growing range of resources for you to access.
Accessing Synergy Health
Go to https://tepukenga.synergyhealthltd.com/.
Register to create an account using the company code: education
Three things you can do get started on your wellbeing journey in Synergy Health
- Complete your wellbeing scorecard
Your wellbeing scorecard will help you understand what areas you’re thriving in and where you might need to focus your energy with personalised content.
- Register for a webinar
We’ve organised a series of webinars hosted by Chantal Hofstee, who is a clinical psychologist, executive coach and mindfulness expert. Chantal will cover mindfulness practices and how they can support your wellbeing during periods of change.
We’ve asked Chantal for this focus because this year is one of transition within our network and there is also a lot happening in the world around us. Although mindfulness practice won’t necessarily fix problems or change your situation, it does offer ways to support your wellbeing and resilience.
Register for one (or more) of the webinar sessions here
- Take part in our first monthly challenge
A challenge will run each month during the pilot. We encourage you to get involved. They are good fun and link to our values and objectives.
The challenge this month is to share your pepeha.
Find the challenge on your Synergy Health homepage. You can also head to the ‘Challenges and Goals’ page to see other challenges that you can take part in at any time. For example, you can work on your sleep, energy levels, financial plans or learn more about what engages you.
Champions
Each subsidiary has elected a champion to support the Synergy Health pilot.
Our champion is Hayley Laughton. You can contact Hayley for help with the platform or to share feedback and ideas with Te Pūkenga.
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Chief Executive to help judge Otago Sports Awards (April 27 2022)
Otago Polytechnic Chief Executive Dr Megan Gibbons is one of judges for the annual Otago Sports Awards.
Joining Dr Gibbons on the judging panel for the Otago Polytechnic-sponsored awards are Sport Otago chief executive John Brimble, Otago Daily Times sports editor Hayden Meikle, radio producer Rowena Duncum and former long-serving Sport Otago manager Michael Smith.
The awards will be held on Friday, June 3 at the Otago Polytechnic Hub.
Read more here
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Welcoming students to campus (April 22 2022)
It was great to be back on campus for Orientation today.
Our last few Orientation events have taken place online due to Covid restrictions, but today we were able to greet our new students in person.
Group Deputy Chief Executive Corporate Services, Amin Soleimani, welcomed the students at today’s event, saying it was great to see such a diverse cohort this study block.
He told them that OPAIC has a vision of developing the world’s most employable graduates. All staff were working hard toward that goal but it would also take input from students, he said.
He advised students to engage in activities inside and outside the classroom, join study groups, and ask for help when they needed it. Passionate staff who cared about their learning were available to help with all aspects of their journey, he said.
At today’s Orientation, students had the opportunity to meet staff, learn what different teams were responsible for, and tour the campus. The day also included an IT induction, an employability introduction, and an academic orientation.
Today’s on-campus Orientation followed an online event for our new overseas students held yesterday.
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Building confidence through internship experience (April 21 2022)
Maimiti Manate says the opportunities provided at OPAIC allowed her to become a confident work-ready graduate.
Students and alumni shared their internship experience during a panel discussion organised by the Employability Team recently.
The discussion focused on what students learned from their internships and how it impacted them personally and professionally. It’s hoped the discussion will help students who are about to undertake their own internships.
Maimiti, who comes from French Polynesia, graduated with her Bachelor of Applied Management last year.
She now works as an accounts administrator in the finance team at a data company and says she’s really enjoying the role.
Maimiti completed her internship in the area of sustainability with OPAIC. Her project was all about recycling on campus.
She says she loved the internship and it allowed her to expand her knowledge and become more confident going into the workforce in New Zealand.
“It really helped me to grow personally, and especially regarding my self-confidence.”
She recently had the opportunity to share her research at an online TechTALK event, which her family could tune into from overseas.
“I was really proud to do that because my family connected. They didn't understand everything because it was in English, but they were all very proud, and they started sharing my YouTube video with all the family.”
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OPAIC students help with reforestation efforts (April 14 2022)
A group of volunteers from the Green Office Toitū at OPAIC had a memorable time contributing to reforestation efforts in Waihi this month.
Volunteer, Hallie Duong, says the Aureate Reforestation project is all about planting trees to help save the Earth from climate change and biodiversity loss, as well as contributing to saving the environment.
“We all had an unforgettable experience with the Aureate Reforestation project,” she says.
Hallie says the landowners had a vision of replacing the pine on their 25-hectare property with an entirely native forest that provides a home for native birds and creates a permanent carbon sink. They commenced reforestation on a large scale in April 2020.
Her group of volunteers planted 28 kākābeak, 21 harakeke, and 33 akeake plants and all really enjoyed the work.
Hallie says there are many benefits to restoring and conserving critical forests.
“Replanting native forest is the best way to remove carbon and support biodiversity and the natural environment.”
It helps to provide clean air, enhance water quality, create homes for thousands of species of plants and animals, and regenerate vegetative links and chains, she says.
Volunteer Yujie Shao’s role in the project involved cutting wilding conifers. This could be done by uprooting the wilding pine by hand to completely eradicate it or by using pliers to cut off the bottom trunk to slow the growth.
Yujie says planted in the right places, introduced conifers such as pines and firs can provide wood, store carbon, reduce erosion, filter soil nutrients and improve water quality, and provide shade for stock.
In the wrong places, these conifers pose a major threat to New Zealand's ecosystems, land, and farms.
Controlling the spread of wild conifers is important if we are to protect our ecosystems, he says.
Volunteer project manager and student, Joanna Wang, says she was excited to be able to acquire knowledge of the Emissions Trading Scheme and contribute to growing native forests, through her role.
She says she strongly relates to Otago Polytechnic’s vision – “Our people make a better world - Kia tū ki te tahi”.
Joanna says that in future the Green Office Toitū plans to hold monthly volunteer event where participants will tour and visit Waihi on the first day, and then put in the work of planting trees on the second day.
“Reforestation must be an ongoing effort, and the students' hands-on participation in Aureate Reforestation's volunteer project allows them to learn not only about planting and maintaining trees, but also gain knowledge about native plants,” she says.
Green Office Toitū coordinator Dani Mao says planted native trees will store carbon at a growing pace as they age and enhance natural landscapes, indigenous biodiversity, and cultural values.
“Green Office Toitū proudly partners with Aureate Reforestation with the vision of creating an entirely native forest that provides a home for native birds and a permanent carbon sink,” she says.
Their reforestation project is situated in the Coromandel Pōhutakawa Ecological zone, moving into the Pūriri zone at its furthest from the sea, and their replanting is consistent with these guidelines.
“Our students will learn about native Reforestation, ecosourcing seeds, raising seedlings, birdlife, native plants identification through this project. This project also enables students to acquire knowledge of te reo Māori and tikanga Māori,” says Dani.
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Kaiako recognised for efforts with He Toki programme (April 13 2022)
Congratulations to kaiako William Woolnough and Darryl (Daz) John, who have received the 2021 Excellence in Teaching Award for their work on the He Toki intake of the pre-trades carpentry programme.
Voted for by their tauira, the award is presented to the teacher(s) who have shown excellence in their lecturing ability and contributed above and beyond in the education of their tauira.
“Both William and Daz have worked tirelessly to insure tauira received the best education, support, and experience possible,” says He Toki Kaiwhakatere Jody Takimoana.
“This is a powerful example of putting tauira at the centre of what we do and celebrating these two reflects this in a positive way.”
Tracey McLennan, Head of Programmes, College of Engineering, Construction and Living Sciences, says the award reflects the commitment that has been shown by both kaiako and staff within L Block to make the He Toki programme a success.
Delivered by Otago Polytechnic and Ara Institute, He Toki is a collaborative indigenous model of education that brings together iwi, industry, educational institutions, community organisations and government agencies.
A key point of difference for this programme is that it not only focuses on carpentry outcomes, but also the introduction of Te Ao Māori principles throughout the programme. Throughout the academic year, tauira are provided with support from Te Punaka Ōwheo, Otago Polytechnic’s Māori Student Support Centre, as well as the Kaiwhakatere (Jody Takimoana).
William says it is an “absolute privilege to be part of He Toki”, and he has learnt plenty.
“The most enjoyable moments for me are with the He Toki whanau, sharing kai, the building site singing, and the karakia after the mahi is done for the day.
“The realisation that this kaupapa not only works but out performs the current Eurocentric model is also a highlight.
“It’s hard to put into words but, suffice to say, being part of the He Toki whānau means a lot and I am looking forward to seeing it grow.”
Daz sums it up in another way:
"Nau te rourou, nāku te rourou, ka ora ai ō tātou manuhiri."
(“With your food basket, and my food basket, our guest will feast.")
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Ceramic works tackle theme of student wellbeing (April 13 2022)
Dunedin School of art graduate Aaron Obbeek has created ceramic sculptures for four meeting rooms in the Hub.
Titled “Out of the Black: Into the Blue”, the installation is the product of Aaron consulting and collaborating with Student Success staff.
With Covid, the numbers of students requiring mental health support and other services has increased significantly. Aaron worked with our Student Support Staff to respond to this situation with a series of small ceramic objects exhibited on shelves in the meeting rooms.
“We wanted the work to coincide with and represent the support they offer to students across all programmes, which led me to making many bowls and jars that can have practical and adaptable uses within the meeting spaces,”: Aaron explains.
“The ceramics have all been hand-made using the pinch technique, to create an organic-looking shape and texture. The works have been glazed blue and white to capture the movement of water, adapting to their surroundings and continuing with the flow.”
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Carpentry apprentices show off skills (April 11 2022)
Eager apprentices put their carpentry skills to the test at the New Zealand Certified Builders ITM Apprentice Challenge at the weekend.
Eight apprentices, all enrolled at Otago Polytechnic, took part in the Dunedin round at ITM’s yard, while another four, including three enrolled at our Cromwell-based programme, battled it out in the Central Otago section, also held at an ITM yard.
The winner of the Dunedin heat was Jack Johnston, from Naylor Love, who claimed a $500 prize and a place in the national final. Second place was claimed by Noah Wray, while Richard Van Aalst finished in third place.
The Central Otago round of the New Zealand Certified Builders (NZCB) Apprentice Challenge took place at ITM Southern Lakes on Saturday, four competitors vying for the top spot.
Ty Sarginson, of Wanaka, a third-year apprentice with Mark Duffy Building, won the Central Otago round and will join Jack at the national finals in Hamilton in November.
Read more about Otago Polytechnic’s construction programmes
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"Crossroads; Childish Adult Stuff" installed in Quad (April 15 2022)
The latest sculptural installation in Otago Polytechnic’s Four Plinths Project dabbles in the past while pondering the future.
“Crossroads; Childish Adult Stuff” is the title of the project by Dunedin School of Art graduate Dillon Gamble, whose work was officially opened at Otago Polytechnic’s Hub on Thursday, 7 April.
Located in the quad at Otago Polytechnic’s Dunedin Campus, “Crossroads; Childish Adult Stuff (2022)” is the third iteration of the Four Plinths Project, which provides an opportunity for graduates from the Dunedin School of Art to have their work shown in a public setting.
In describing his work, Dillon describes himself as at a crossroads.
“Now that I’ve completed postgraduate study at Otago Polytechnic, I find myself wanting to make art about that idea: ‘Where to next? ‘, Dillion explains.
“Looking back over my last four years of study, I’ve noticed certain themes and styles emerging from my practice – my engagement with the history of Aotearoa and its material legacies, the ‘old stuff’, objects that I, a New Zealander, view with nostalgia and affection.
“Now that I’ve reached the end of my degree, I find myself with time spare to reflect on my choices leading to this point.
“As a child, things felt as if they would be simpler, clearer, and would fit more neatly into my understanding of the world.
“Upon consideration, little has changed about my concern with play; my toys, their meaning, and my experience of them.
“While I now make my own toys, their scaling-up over time has matched my own growth.
“The ‘toys’ I have created represent my own unfocused, yet specific, goals as a recent graduate of the arts.
“I need to get some work, and I probably need somewhere to live. Most definitely I’ll need a car to go places and, most importantly, I’ll be able to get a dog soon.
“These works resulted from my reflections on life and education, ventures I suspect I have shared with many others.”
“Crossroads; Childish Adult Stuff” replaces Bachelor of Fine Arts graduate Richard Budd’s installation, “Four Daves”, which was preceded by Jenny Hjertquist's ”Four Quarters of the World”, the inaugural commission for Otago Polytechnic’s Four Plinths Project.
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Otago Polytechnic Carpentry apprentices prepare to show off skills (April 7 2022)
There will be more than the usual whiff of competitive spirit in the New Zealand Certified Builders (NZCB) Otago ITM Apprentice Challenge this weekend.
All nine entrants are apprentices enrolled at Otago Polytechnic – among them twin brothers and a trio of flatmates – all of whom are seeking bragging rights, as well as the chance to progress to the national final, to be held in November.
This year’s challenge involves building an outdoor bench seat, based on plans entrants received earlier in the week.
Working against the clock, competitors will be judged on the finish, presentation and accuracy of their build. They are also required to show working proof of the depth of their preparations to the judging panel of building practitioners and industry educators.
Some of the benches will be given to the local branch of the Cancer Society of New Zealand, while the others will be auctioned online to raise funds for the society.
The competition runs from 8am-6pm on Saturday 9 April at ITM’s Dunedin yard.
Read the Otago Daily Times article
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Dillon Gamble - New sculptural works, Located in the Otago polytechnic central courtyard (April 4 2022)
Opening 7 APRIL, 2022, 5.30PM, Otago Polytechnic Courtyard - 4 plinths
Crossroads; Childish Adult Stuff, 2022.
New sculptural works by Dillon Gamble.
These 4 Plinths works were part of the Hub Commission series. The works were commissioned from a Graduate Artist from SITE 2021. They will be located in the Otago Polytechnic central courtyard.
Opening Thursday 7th April 2022 5:30 pm
The Hub, Courtyard, Forth street Dunedin.
"I find myself at a crossroads. ‘Well, what’s next?’ I always thought I'd work on a farm or factory. Now that I’ve completed postgraduate study at Otago Polytechnic I find myself wanting to make art about that idea. ‘Where to next?’
The works:
Looking back over my last four years of study, I’ve noticed certain themes and styles emerging from my practice. My engagement with the history of Aotearoa and its material legacies; the ‘old stuff’, objects that I, a New Zealander, view with nostalgia and affection. Now that I’ve reached the end of my degree I find myself with time spare to reflect on my choices leading to this point. As a child, things felt as if they would be simpler, clearer, and would fit more neatly into my understanding of the world. Upon consideration, little has changed about my concern with play; my toys, their meaning, and my experience of them. While I now make my own toys, their scaling-up over time has matched my own growth.
The ‘toys’ I have created represent my own unfocused, yet specific, goals as a recent graduate of the arts. I need to get some work, and I probably need somewhere to live. Most definitely I’ll need a car to go places, and most importantly I’ll be able to get a dog soon.
These works resulted from my reflections on life and education, ventures I suspect I have shared with many others."
-- Dillon Gamble, March 2022
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Anatomy Lessons by Michele Beevors at the Animal Attic, Otago Museum (April 4 2022)
6 APRIL - 24 JULY, ANIMAL ATTIC, OTAGO MUSEUM
Venue: Animal Attic, Otago Museum, 419 Great King Street North, Dunedin North, Dunedin 9016
Dates: 6 April - 24 July, open 10AM - 5PM daily
FREE ENTRY
This special exhibition features life-sized sculptured animal skeletons that are inspired by natural history exhibits and reflect on our relationship with animals. From the giant giraffe whose head is raised to the windowed ceiling, to tiny frogs, the works are ethereal and haunting.
The works encourage visitors to think about the history of collecting and the ongoing conservation challenges all species face.
This series of sculptures began in 2005, and for over 15 years Michele has been adding to the collection of knitted anatomy as a part of practice which includes large scale fibreglass and feminist works.
This exhibition is one of sad splendour and the sorrowful realities of species loss and extinction.
Michele Beevors is a Dunedin local and internationally recognised artist. She is principal lecturer in sculpture at the Dunedin School of Art at Otago Polytechnic.
Michele Beevors talks to Lynn Freeman on Radio NZ about her work at this link:
https://www.rnz.co.nz/national/programmes/standing-room-only/audio/2018836801/michele-beevors-knits-skeletons-of-endangered-animals
Read more about Michele's work at Stuff and in an interview with Rebecca Fox for the Otago Daily Times Art Feature.Please note: The Otago Museum is committed to maintaining the safety of our community, and requires full vaccination for all visitors 12 years old and over.
To enter the Museum, you must show proof of vaccination or verified medical exemption using the My Vaccine Pass.
Visitors must also scan in, social distance, and wear a face covering.
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Success Story: Yindi Fu (March 24 2022)
Yindi Fu is excelling in his studies and puts his recent improvement down to the support he’s received from teachers and peers.
Yindi came to New Zealand seven years ago and completed his high school studies here before enrolling in the Bachelor of Applied Management at OPAIC.
He loves New Zealand for its natural environment as well as its educational environment.
He is now in the third and final year of his degree and is undertaking an internship with the Employability Team at the polytechnic.
Yindi’s internship is based in the Green Office, a new department supporting sustainability initiatives at OPAIC. His roles include helping other students find jobs and keeping track of the internship hours of his peers.
Employability Manager Dani Mao says Yindi has come a long way in his study and life in New Zealand.
His recent work and academic performance have hugely improved recently and he stands out among his peers, she says.
Yindi’s performance was recently recognised at our Excellent Scholar Awards where he received a Special Award for his Internship Project.
Yindi puts his recent success down to the support he’s received from teachers and his peers.
“I reckon my learning has improved because of help from peer tutors, as well as encouragement and strict requirements from my teachers.”
He advises other students to reach out to teachers, peer tutors, or even classmates whenever they need help. He says they’ll all be able to offer ideas and suggestions which will help you succeed.
Yindi says he’s enjoyed his degree because he’s had many opportunities to learn about how organisations run. There has also been a lot of focus on reflection and critical thinking, which he enjoys.
After he graduates with his bachelor’s degree, Yindi hopes to train as an early childhood teacher.
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Graduate’s millinery skills help others mark academic milestones (March 10 2022)
Otago Polytechnic graduate Katie Mangai has gone to extra lengths to ensure others are able to celebrate their academic success in style this week.
Katie, who will be conferred a Graduate Diploma in Design (Distinction), specialising in fashion, accepts this week’s Town Hall graduation ceremonies were cancelled for good reason.
But when the chance arose for Katie to contribute to how others might mark their achievements, be it at home and/or through their own photo opportunities, Katie leapt at the chance.
The result: five beautiful blue bonnets – to be worn by recipients of Otago Polytechnic’s Doctorate of Professional Practice.
Prof Margo Barton, Otago Polytechnic’s Head of Fashion and an expert in millinery, had fielded the initial request to design and produce the bonnets, but believed a student or graduate should be given the opportunity.
“Having completed the size range patterns, I found I didn’t have time to progress them. I was well aware of Katie’s skills, so I suggested she take on the challenge.
“We were determined to make the bonnets as sustainable as possible and knew Katie would also want to work this way,” Prof Barton explains.
Although Katie wasn’t particularly concerned about missing out on any ceremony, she understands both the significance of academic achievement and of celebrating all that effort.
“For an adult student like myself, it has been such a privilege coming back to study. I did my Graduate Diploma part-time over three years, and completing it is kind of bitter-sweet because I’ve absolutely loved being here at Otago Polytechnic.
“I’m one of those crazy people who will probably come back and do more study, because I just love learning.
“There is symbolism in the regalia,” Katie says.
“It’s about how we connect our personal achievements to other occasions and create a sense of personal history. Getting dressed up for something and putting on a costume has meaning for people.
“Graduating is definitely a significant achievement, so when Margo asked if I wanted to make the hats, I thought about how other students might want to get their photo taken in their regalia.
“And the fact these bonnets are for people who have completed doctorates . . . well, they’ve done a lot of work to get there.”
Made on sustainability principles, the graduation bonnets are comprised of organic cotton.
“And every part is biodegradable so when they eventually fall apart or can’t be repaired – which should take a long, long time given how well they are constructed,” Katie says.
“As a graduate of Otago Polytechnic Fashion programme, being able to work in such a sustainably focused environment has been really cool.”
These sustainable principles align strongly with her own business plans.
Inspired by the many pregnant women who experience the challenge of maintaining a sense of self with clothing that reflects who they are, Katie has developed LUNI, a subscription rental service for maternity clothing.
As part of the ongoing Audacious entrepreneur programme, she received the Firebrand Transformational Package last year after pitching her idea.
“I’m looking to refine my business plan a bit more. Solving business problems also involves some really creative thinking, too.
“I’ve been really inspired reading about other small businesses who have started regardless of this pandemic. Yes, the current environment isn’t ideal, but it forces people to be creative, too.”
Dr Megan Gibbons, Chief Executive, Otago Polytechnic, says Katie’s millinery efforts are yet another example of the support and kindness shown by students to others.
“She demonstrates the community we continue to create. It’s all about supporting each other.”
Almost 4000 people will graduate in absentia from Otago Polytechnic.
A total of 3953 qualifications will be conferred (ranging from level 2 certificates to level 10 Doctorates).
“Congratulations to all our graduates,” says Dr Gibbons.
“Although we had to cancel our recent Graduation ceremonies because of public health concerns, that should take nothing away from our graduates’ incredible achievements and our staff’s unwavering commitment to delivering outstanding teaching and support during a global pandemic.”
CAPTION: Claire Goode (left), who has been conferred a Doctorate of Professional Practice, wears one of the new bonnets created by fellow graduate Katie Mangai (Graduate Diploma in Design, with Distinction).
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The founder of Dunedin chocolate company Ocho has returned to her original love of clay (March 10 2022)
The founder of Dunedin chocolate company Ocho has returned to her original love of clay. Liz Rowe talks to Rebecca Fox about learning the value of time. The Exchange, Liz Rowe, March 14-18.The Dunedin Art School Gallery is not open to the general public during Covid Red settings, but there will be some set viewing times by appointment and with vaccine pass. Contact roweej1 at student.op.ac.nz.Every Minute is Precious
Liz Rowe
Post-graduate Exhibition
4-18 March 2022
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Research Methods Seminars - Q Methodology (March 4 2022)
This is the first in a series of seminars where staff talk about how they have applied different research methodologies and methods within their own research. First up is Lesley Brook who will present how she used Q methodology in her Master of Professional Practice research. Q methodology blends aspects of qualitative and quantitative research by asking participants to sort items, usually a set of statements, on a scale to express their perspectives on the issue under investigation. Lesley has used Q methodology in a novel way, asking research participants to express their emotional responses to artworks in an exhibition by sorting images of those artworks. Images were sorted according to the strength of each participant’s emotional response, from strongest negative to strongest positive emotional responses. The sorting captures qualitative data and enables statistical analysis of the results of the sorts to identify patterns and hence groups of participants.
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Otago Polytechnic learners cook up a storm catering to students in isolation (March 3 2022)
A group of Otago Polytechnic learners is catering – literally – to the culinary needs of fellow Dunedin students isolating because of Covid.
Otago Polytechnic third-year Bachelor of Culinary Arts learners have developed a student-focused smorgasbord comprising no fewer than 14 dishes, ranging from pumpkin and kumara soup to chicken and tofu pad Thai. There are also vegan and gluten-free options, included a gluten-free chocolate self-saucing pudding.
In total, the team is aiming to produce, pack and freeze 1000 meals, which will be delivered to learners by Otago Polytechnic’s Student Success team and others.
“We are now starting to pack and freeze the meals,” says Otago Polytechnic Bachelor of Culinary Arts Senior Lecturer Tony Heptinstall.
“We have used this opportunity to continue our on-campus teaching. We had a class last week with both on-campus and online students in isolation and the challenge was to come up with a range of dishes that would appeal to students. There are currently 14 different meal options.
“The students are getting a unique opportunity to produce food in bulk and examine their processes. They are able to incorporate all this learning into the formal assessment for our third-year Bachelor of Culinary Arts programme.”
As Dr Adrian Woodhouse, Head of Culinary Arts and Food Design, notes: “Despite the Covid context, this illustrates a typical strength of our teaching approach, which is quickly repositioning our students’ learning activities to embrace the needs of the community.”
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Celebrating our top achievers (March 2 2022)
We’ve once again celebrated our high-achieving students at an Excellent Scholars Awards Ceremony.
This week’s ceremony was a little different to past events. As well as recognising the students who earned top grades in the previous study block, we celebrated students who stood out for other reasons, including academic improvement and research excellence.
Applied Management Head of Department Russell Harray spoke about what made an excellent student, at Monday’s ceremony.
He said awards recipients had shown active engagement in and out of the classroom, taken responsibility for their own learning, been motivated, and had a passion for learning.
Our top students had also been flexible and adjusted well to external circumstances.
Monday’s ceremony was attended by students within New Zealand and offshore, as well as staff.
Our Excellent Scholars were Chenlong Xu (Jager), Xiaowen Zhu (Sarah), Shen Yue, Yang Liu, Palak Sharma, Kazuhisa Kondo, Wasara Kasunjith Withanage Don, Thu Than Pham, and Valeria Kuznetsova.
Jiaxin Yu received the award for best Internship Project, and our special awards went to Yuyue Zhou, Erica Novianti, Sina Eslamboli, Vladimir Denisenko, and Yindi Fu.
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Performance Management Training for Leaders (August 29 2022)
The next session People and Culture are running for the Performance Management Training is next Monday 5 September 9.30-11.30am.
The module covers what performance management is, looks at relationship management, enabling performance, processes/approaches to deal with poor performance and unacceptable behaviour, plus recognising when performance management ends, and disciplinary processes are required. Specific case studies are used to assist participants with application of the learning.
Please book into a session below.
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Our People Make a Better World! (February 25 2022)
We are proud to share the digital format of the book: "Monograph 2021: Mentoring Practices and Initiatives across Te Pūkenga" in which staff from Te Kura Matatini ki Otago feature. This monograph is a part of the national Peer Mentoring project funded by the Ministry of Education and led by Dr Dobrila Lopez at EIT.
In particular, we appreciatively acknowledge the contributions of staff from CapableNZ, College of Work Based Learning who make up a significant proportion of this book. Through their work we have been able to celebrate, and share our mentoring initiatives and practices, within Te Kura Matatini ki Otago, to a wider audience.
Congratulations to authors: Alexa Forbes, Carleen Mitchell, David Woodward, Glenys Forsyth, Glenys Ker, Helen Papuni, Henk Roodt, James Harrison, Jeremy Taylor, John Gualter, Kylie Ellis, Naumai Taurua and Steve Henry. And congratulations to Rebecca McDiarmid, College of Health who also features.
Our people make a better world!
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Otago Polytechnic adds ‘old-school’ approach to student support (February 24 2022)
Otago Polytechnic’s ongoing efforts to support its learners now include additional measures – “old-school” distractions such as board games, books and playing cards.
“We have implemented a wide range of measures to ensure the health and safety of learners, now that Covid-19 has a more active presence in our community,” says Dr Megan Gibbons, Chief Executive, Otago Polytechnic.
“As well as providing food, medicines, sanitary items and other important domestic supplies, we are mindful that we need to support our learners’ mental and social wellbeing.
“A key part of this is looking at ways to help keep them entertained while in isolation, beyond them binge-watching various television series.
“We are asking our generous staff to donate board games, novels, packs of cards, magazines etc. These will then be distributed by our service teams and additional staff who have volunteered to reach out to learners.
“We would like to donate any such items to our learners in Te Pā Tauira-Otago Polytechnic Student Village as well as in flats and homes.
“Our focus at this time is to ensure that any person who is isolating is ok, has access to what they need, and has good support around them,” Dr Gibbons says.
“We have teams who will continue to monitor their wellbeing and connect with them daily.
“We acknowledge this is a stressful time. We urge any students who feel scared or anxious, have questions or need support in any way, to contact our Student Support teams. Likewise, we urge staff to utilize our support systems.”
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Combining art, science, maths and computing with clay (February 24 2022)
Note: the DSA Gallery is not open to the Public under the current Covid-Protection Framework.
Documentation of exhibitions will be shown in our online flickr gallery the week following exhibitions.Combining art, science, maths and computer programming with clay - an interview with Finn Petrie by Rebecca Fox in the Otago Daily Times.
https://www.odt.co.nz/entertainment/arts/bringing-two-worlds-togetherBringing all his considerable skills and interests together, Finn created works for his masters project on the Ceramics Department 3-D clay printer.
Documentation of his exhibition will be shown in our online flickr gallery.
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OP claims multiple medals at Best Design Awards (February 21 2022)
Otago Polytechnic has won five medals at the Designers Institute of New Zealand Best Design Awards.
Eight Otago Polytechnic School of Design-related projects were represented at the awards ceremony.
Held online on Friday (18 February), the postponed 2021 event is regarded as the annual showcase of excellence in graphic, spatial, product, interactive and motion design in New Zealand.
“To have five out of eight of our finalists collect medals at New Zealand’s most prestigious design awards is an outstanding achievement,” says Dr Megan Gibbons, Otago Polytechnic Chief Executive.
“We are so proud to have had so many of our talented designers reach the finals of the Best Design Awards.”
Cameron Tillotson, who graduated from Otago Polytechnic with a Bachelor of Design (Communication), won a Gold Medal in the Student Moving Image category for his music video “Merc Lady”.
The judges described his project as bold and fresh, adding: “Great use of stop-motion and a riot of colour come together to create a memorable and original piece of animation.”
Another Bachelor of Design (Communication) graduate, Courtney Forbes claimed a Silver Medal in the Student Graphics category for her branding project, “Pōpopo Wormporium”.
Otago Polytechnic Bachelor of Architectural Studies graduate Mila Makasini won a Silver Medal in the Student Spatial category for “Navigating Culture”, a concept for a Polynesian cultural centre. (Mila had previously won the inaugural student design award from the southern branch of the New Zealand Institute of Architects.)
Otago Polytechnic’s Desis Lab team (a Product Design collaboration comprising Alex Gilks, Machiko Niimi, Mary Butler, Kelechi Ogbuehi, Curtis Stent, Karen Parker and Sarah Drummond) won a Silver Medal in the Value of Design category for their Vision 2020 Child To Child Vision Screening project.
Otago Polytechnic Bachelor of Design (Product) graduates Angus Lewry and Ella Sanderson won a Bronze Medal in the Student Product category for their project “Freerein”, a prototype bike designed to help people with multiple sclerosis.
The Best Design Awards are an annual showcase of excellence in graphic, spatial, product, interactive and motion design.
“To have the work of so many of our talented designers acknowledged by the judges is an outstanding achievement,” says Prof Federico Freschi, head of Te Maru Pūmanawa: College of Creative Practice and Enterprise, Otago Polytechnic.
“Previous Best Awards finalists and winners have built on their success to launch their design careers in New Zealand and overseas."
More information on each Otago Polytechnic-related finalist:
2020 graduate Mila Makasini (Navigating Culture) - Spatial (year 3)
Student Lauren Arthur (Room for Thought) - Spatial (year 2)
Ella Sanderson and Angus Lewry (Free Rein) - Student Product
Andrew Wallace and William Early and SouthMed team (Suzy Ventilation Hood) - Public Good
Mary Butler, Alex Gilks, Curtis Stent and Machiko Niimi and Vision 2020 team - Value of Design
Courtney Forbes (2020 graduate)(Pōpopo Wormporium) - Student Graphics
Cameron Tillotson (2020 graduate) (Video for Merc Lady) - Student Moving Image
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OPAIC team investigates AI in healthcare (February 21 2022)
A graduate and lecturer have teamed up to research how artificial intelligence can be used to improve health outcomes in New Zealand.
Tavish Sehgal completed his Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Management at OPAIC and also worked as a peer tutor at the campus. His research interests include IT cyber security and tracking and predicting carbon emissions.
Marianne Cherrington is a Principal Lecturer in the Applied Management department at OPAIC. Her interests include computer analytics and sustainability.
Tavish and Marianne have recently published a paper about AI and health in the journal Scope.
Health inequalities are a major issue that affect society in complex and compounding ways, according to their paper. Gaps in health are great, persistent, and increasing within New Zealand and around the world.
Health equity means increasing opportunities for everyone to live the healthiest life possible, no matter who they are, where they live, or how much money they make.
The pair’s research showed healthcare solutions using AI and machine learning are already in use globally and feature in parts of the healthcare system in New Zealand.
Neurology, oncology, cardiology and genetics all use AI, they found.
They said the Ministry of Health is developing an approach that operates around deepening the understanding of equity gaps, shifting thinking about where priorities for investment of time and resources should lie, and increasing direct action to address inequality.
Their research concluded that AI must be part of the solution, building on key strengths and initiatives already successful in Aotearoa such as those using:
- Machine learning prediction for scheduling.
- Digital assistants to educate, answer multi-lingual queries and perform administrative tasks.
- AI digital health professionals.
- Auto-diagnosis, pharmacogenomics, and personalised treatments with or without genetic testing.
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Introducing the Dunedin School of Art Leadership Team 2022 (February 18 2022)
Introducing the newly constituted Dunedin School of Art Leadership Team which comprises Victoria Bell (Head of Programme for the Bachelor of Visual Arts), Alysha Bailey (Head of Programme Certificates & Diplomas in Visual Arts and Design) and Alex Kennedy (Head Postgraduate programmes). Together they will have oversight of all strategic and operational matters relating to the academic programmes offered in the Dunedin School of Art, with De-Arn Buchholz continuing in her role as School Operations Coordinator. This shared leadership model is consistent with the new leadership framework implemented in Te Maru Pūmanawa | College of Creative Practice & Enterprise, designed to enable cross-disciplinary communication and participation.
We look forward to welcoming everyone back for the start of the new academic year.
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Insights from Associate Professor Hayden Croft (February 16 2022)
Otago Polytechnic academic Hayden Croft, recently promoted to Associate Professor, provides some insights into his career, motivations and research.
Q: What is your current role at Otago Polytechnic?
I currently hold the position of Head of Sport, Exercise and Health at Otago Polytechnic, having begun as a Lecturer at the (then) Institute of Sport and Adventure in 2010.
Q: Describe your career path at Otago Polytechnic.
During my time at Otago Polytechnic I have taught across many programmes while practising my profession as a Performance Analyst with several sports organisations in both Rugby and Netball. I currently work with the Silver Ferns netball team and I have integrated students into this work whenever possible. I currently lead a postgraduate strand in performance analysis here, where students work with me and industry partners to experience the profession they are studying towards. Throughout this time I have researched and published applied research, looking to solve problems for sports team and coaches. My PhD has developed a framework for practitioners who face the issue of managing “big data” in sports.
Q: What has driven you to achieve the Professoriate?
I have always been driven to continually improve myself and what I do in my work. The professoriate has always been an ambition of mine as it gives me space and time to continue to develop my research into something meaningful for our students and colleagues.
Q: What does this mean to you, professionally and personally?
It’s always an honour to be recognised, but as an Associate Professor it reinforces that the risks I have taken, not researching in a traditional manner, has been worth it.
Q: What’s next?
My ambition over the next few years will be to explore new research methodologies that let me describe what really happens in high performance sport “behind closed doors”. There are many lessons that other industries could learn from – in the way sport operates and what leadership looks like. Player wellbeing is currently under the spotlight in sport, as it should be. However, coaches and support staff face these same issues and our young graduates need to be understood and supported also.
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Otago Polytechnic has multiple finalists in Best Design Awards (February 16 2022)
Otago Polytechnic students, graduates and staff members will be keenly awaiting the judges’ decisions at the Designers Institute of New Zealand Best Design Awards – to be announced on Friday 18 February.
Eight Otago Polytechnic School of Design-related projects are represented at the awards ceremony, which will be announced online.
The Best Design Awards are an annual showcase of excellence in graphic, spatial, product, interactive and motion design.
“To have the work of so many of our talented designers acknowledged by the judges is an outstanding achievement,” says Prof Federico Freschi, head of Te Maru Pūmanawa: College of Creative Practice and Enterprise, Otago Polytechnic.
“Previous Best Awards finalists and winners have built on their success to launch their design careers in New Zealand and overseas.
“Our finalists encompass a wide range of Design disciplines – Product, Architecture, Communication and Fashion – and span graduates, current students, staff and, significantly, partnerships outside of Otago Polytechnic.
“For example, the Public Good finals category features staff members Andrew Wallace and William Early and their amazing collaboration with South Med to create a ventilator hood to help patients with Covid-19,” Prof Freschi says.
“And the Value of Design category features the Vision 2020 Vision Screening project that included Mary Butler, Alex Gilks, Curtis Stent and Machiko Niimi. This project, which has benefited many children, shows the power of cross-disciplinary thinking.
“However, those are just two examples. The depth of thinking, allied to the technical and creative execution, and the teamwork required to bring projects to fruition, is evident throughout all the finalists’ work,” Prof Freschi says.
Otago Polytechnic Chief Executive Dr Megan Gibbons describes the long list of finalists as “an outstanding achievement”.
“We are so proud to have so many of our talented designers reach the finals of this year’s Best Design Awards.”
More information on each Otago Polytechnic-related finalist:
Architecture:
2020 graduate Mila Makasini (Navigating Culture) - Spatial (year 3)
Student Lauren Arthur (Room for Thought) – Spatial (year 2)
Product Design:
Ella Sanderson and Angus Lewry (Free Rein) - Student Product
Andrew Wallace and William Early and SouthMed team (Suzy Ventilation Hood) - Public Good
Mary Butler, Alex Gilks, Curtis Stent and Machiko Niimi and Vision 2020 team - Value of Design
Communication
Courtney Forbes (2020 graduate)(Pōpopo Wormporium) - Student Graphics
Cameron Tillotson (2020 graduate) (Video for Merc Lady) - Student Moving Image
Fashion
(Photo: Navigating Culture, courtesy Mila Makasini)
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Congratulations to latest members of Professoriate (February 10 2022)
A highlight of Otago Polytechnic’s annual staff day is the official recognition of the newest members of our Professoriate.
Following a rigorous application process in late 2021, new members are now welcomed to the Otago Polytechnic Professoriate - Te Kāhui Ahorangi.
These members are: Prof Yvonne Thomas, Prof Jean Ross (promoted from Associate Professor) and Associate Professors Francesca Brown, Hayden Croft, Phil Hancock, Glenys Ker, Suzanne Miller, Kelli Te Maiharoa, and Adrian Woodhouse.
“These colleagues have proven records of sustained excellence in teaching & learning and/or research leadership,” says Prof Leoni Schmidt, Convenor, Professorial Applications Committee.
“Furthermore, they contribute significantly in and beyond Otago Polytechnic to their professions, industries, and communities. Many of them are already playing leading roles in shaping the future of Te Pūkenga.”
More information about the work of the new members and about the Professoriate in general will follow in upcoming months.
In the meantime, we congratulate the new members on their well-deserved promotion and look forward to their future academic leadership.
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New students get familiar with OPAIC (February 4 2022)
We’re welcoming our first intake of students for 2022 to OPAIC this week.
Our new intake consists of onshore and offshore students from countries all over the world including China, India, South Africa, Indonesia, Brazil, Iran, the Philippines, and Russia.
At today’s Orientation, Group Chief Executive Sam Alavi reflected on the difficulties the world had faced during the pandemic. He said everyone could be proud of the resilience they had shown during these times.
Sam said challenging times help people grow. Our new students had chosen to challenge themselves through study and OPAIC would provide the environment they needed to grow, learn, and develop new capabilities.
Our Study Block 1 Orientation activities have included welcomes from staff, sessions about IT and employability, and introductions to programmes.
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Using 3D printing in sustainable construction (February 4 2022)
An OPAIC graduate has put her passion for sustainability into practice during her master’s research in the area of construction.
Tatiana Poletaeva worked as an engineer, architect, and quantity surveyor in the construction field back home in Russia.
She has just completed her Master of Applied Management at OPAIC, researching 3D house printing technology as an effective solution for sustainable housing construction in New Zealand.
Tatiana says the introduction of 3D printing technology is important as it has many advantages over traditional methods. It is an environmentally friendly process that reduces health and safety risks, she says.
“3D printing produces less waste, less pollution and emissions and allows for using ecologically friendly materials.”
“It automates the workflow by up to 80 percent and reduces the need for scaffolding, significantly reducing falls from heights and other workplace injuries.”
She says the use of 3D printing technology also allows projects to be completed two to three times faster. Additionally, it can have financial benefits as it allows for the use of locally available materials.
Tatiana believes 3D printing processes can also attract a new generation to the construction industry.
“Currently, there is a huge shortage of specialists, labour, skills, and materials in the construction market.”
Some people are put off entering the construction industry because of the physical nature of the work. However, the 3D printing process is almost fully automated, she says.
“3D printing is not only about business; it is about the desire to develop and move forward.”
Tatiana says one of the most exciting parts of her project was collaborating with different people from various countries around the world.
“I felt how people are united by a common idea to create and implement something new, experiment, and improve conditions worldwide.”
She says the people she was lucky to interview for her research were all purposeful, intelligent, pioneers, who inspire others with their energy and motivation.
She hopes her research findings will help people make decisions about implementing this technology if they are in doubt, avoid any mistakes in implementation, and improve the construction process.
As a lover of nature and animals, Tatiana is very interested in ecology and sustainability. She hopes her future career will relate to this area.
“I believe that we can achieve sustainability through small steps from everyone that will positively affect the whole planet.”
“It was one of the reasons to come to New Zealand. This country has a great perspective on sustainability, and I would like to be a part of this.”
Tatiana has recently secured a full-time senior project management role with the construction company she interned with before Christmas.
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Otago Polytechnic to collaborate with University of Otago on welcome video (February 1 2022)
Otago Polytechnic is teaming up with the University of Otago to produce a combined video welcoming students and new staff to both institutions though mihi whakatau, pōwhiri and waiata.
Because of Covid-19 public health measures, a range of Otago Polytechnic Orientation events have had to be cancelled. These include special events such as mihi whakatau for all new students, and Māori student pōwhiri at a range of marae (Ōtākou, Puketeraki and Moeraki).
“In discussion with the University of Otago, we are planning a joint approach with Te Huka Mātauraka (University of Otago Māori Centre) and have contracted Māui Studios to film and edit a welcome video,” says Megan Potiki, Manukura Tuarua - Mana Taurite/Deputy Chief Executive Partnership and Equity, Otago Polytechnic.
“We have a responsibility to ensure Mana whenua are the first point of call when welcoming students to Otago Polytechnic and that the kawa and tikaka of all those involved is upheld. Events such as mihi whakatau are not an ‘add-on’. They are intrinsic to our values.
“The purpose of the video approach is to replicate all the messaging that would normally occur on marae at pōwhiri or large mihi whakatau.”
The film will start with a mihi from Mana whenua, shot on each marae, followed by a "visual pepeha" and waiata. From there, the institutions will record footage more relevant to each.
The intent is that the video will go “live” before the majority of students start studying on February 21.
OPSA events affected by Covid
The Otago Polytechnic Students’ Association has cancelled several day-time Orientation events because of Covid-19 Red restrictions.
“We've had to cancel all our lunchtime events involving food as these would likely exceed permitted numbers,” says Lesley Scoullar, OPSA Student Services Manager.
“We have contacted academic programmes and advised them that should they wish to organise a welcome-back lunch or event with fewer than 100 people, they are welcome to inform OPSA and we can assist with funding.
“OPSA doesn't organise evening events, as our students are able to attend OUSA-organised Orientation events, although we understand some of those have been cancelled.”
The cancelled events, the first of which was due to start on February 21, include a barbecue, African drumming, Taco Tuesday, Mac & Cheese Monday, a Māori and Pasifika lunch, as well as OPSA’s Annual General Meeting (31 March).
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Long-serving DCE says future looks bright (January 27 2022)
Chris Morland, Deputy Chief Executive Learner Experience Otago Polytechnic, retires on Friday 28 January, bringing to a close four decades of experience within the tertiary education sector, including the last 17 years at the Dunedin campus.
Having arrived in Dunedin in 2004 from Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology, where he held a variety of roles for 20 years, Chris has seen plenty of change in his time at Otago Polytechnic.
Attracted south to a role as head of the then Otago Institute of Sport, Chris discovered Otago Polytechnic’s reputation for delivering quality vocational education was apparent across many levels.
A few years later, he was promoted to Group Manager within a relatively small executive team led by then Chief Executive Phil Ker; that team grew steadily until 2016, when a large-scale executive restructure saw the executive structure essentially halved.
“As a result, my portfolio and responsibilities expanded and all the teaching departments reported to me,” Chris reflects. “The rational was to integrate the learner journey (or student support systems and services) alongside the academic journey and delivery.
“I’ve seen various changes at Otago Polytechnic over the years. But one thing that has always remained strong is the quality of our delivery.
“I think it’s in the DNA of this place. It’s a constant thread that resides in the staff, through their professionalism, passion and commitment. I believe it was there when I arrived in 2004 and I’d like to think I’ve played a small role in helping ensure it has stayed strong.
“I also think innovation is another key thread at Otago Polytechnic.
“Part of this has to do with our ability and willingness to engage with industry sectors; the other is about us just approaching things differently. Take, for instance, our Capable NZ programmes, which provide alternative pathways to qualifications for experienced adults who are in the workplace.”
Chris believes Otago Polytechnic’s culture will remain strong as it continues its transition as a subsidiary under Te Pūkenga, the national network of polytechnics and Transitional Industry Training Organisations (TITOs).
“The framework Otago Polytechnic has created puts it in good stead for the future. I also believe the consultative, collaborative approach Te Pūkenga is taking to engage closely with the sector is creating strong building blocks.
“For example, a focus on the learner, putting them at the forefront of all thinking, is to be applauded – as is the focus on lifting and strengthening our commitments to the Treaty of Waitangi and our partnerships with iwi.
“It is a very interesting and exciting time in tertiary education in New Zealand.”
In regards the future, on a more personal note, Chris is looking forward to his retirement.
Although he will still have a small role as an assessor for Capable NZ, he hopes the majority of his time will be spent with his wife, Ellen, and a family network that includes six grandchildren.
Occasionally sighted on a Segway that he has used to commute between meetings, including going to and fro across the green expanse of Logan Park, Chris has his eyes on new forms of “wheel estate” – most likely a caravan or campervan in which he and Ellen can ply the highways and byways of New Zealand “while and when we can”.
Other plans include gardening, a spot of fishing and spending some time at the “mighty” Roslyn Bowling Club.
“We both have electric bikes, too, so we are dangerous!”
[*Te Pūkenga was established to better meet the needs of learners and employers by bringing together on-job, on-campus and online learning across Aotearoa New Zealand. By 1 January 2023, Te Pūkenga will create a unified, sustainable public network of regionally accessible vocational and applied learning. Otago Polytechnic is a subsidiary of Te Pūkenga.]
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New name for Trades Training Centre - He Toki Kai Te Rika (January 25 2022)
Otago Polytechnic’s multi-million-dollar Trades Training Centre has been gifted an official name – He Toki Kai Te Rika.
“We are honoured to have been gifted this name by rūnaka, with whom we have strong, ongoing relationships,” says Dr Megan Gibbons, Chief Executive Otago Polytechnic.
He Toki Kai Te Rika translates as “A Tool For Your Hand”.
Kare Tipa, Otago Polytechnic Mana Whenua Board Representive and member of Kōmiti Kāwanataka, explains why the name was chosen:
“In the time of our tīpuna (precolonisation), a toki (adze) gave great precedence to its owner. Differing kinds of toki gave effect to status; from the rangatira (chiefly) to the ware (commoner), toki were both used in informal and formal domains.
“Ceremonially, when a great tree was felled, toki were used to carve or to fashion a grand canoe (waka), or for the ridge-pole of the wharenui of a meeting house. The mauri (life force) within the tree felled carried the living embodiment of its deity Tāne Māhuta.
“Toki were also used as weapons, as well as in everyday, menial tasks such as gardening and cutting plant material. There are other forms of toki, too, including spades and garden hoes, which were fashioned for more specific tasks.
“In the context of the Trades Training Centre, the use of “toki” situates the learner as having the tools or skills to perform a trade of their choice.”
Construction of the $31.7 million He Toki Kai Te Rika project, at the heart of Otago Polytechnic’s Forth St Campus in Dunedin began in January 2021, and is expected to be ready for use by Semester 1 2023.
Stimulating and supporting economic activity in the city and region, He Toki Kai Te Rika will employ around 200 tradespeople, construction managers and consultants.
“The project is significant to both the local and national construction industry,” Dr Gibbons says.
“He Toki Kai Te Rika will be of international standard. It will provide an outstanding learning environment, offering modern learning facilities including common learning spaces, to meet industry and more sophisticated learner demands.”
He Toki Kai Te Rika - Otago Polytechnic Trades Training Centre:
- Situated at Otago Polytechnic’s main Dunedin campus
- Total cost: $31.7 million (Government investment $28 million - grant and loan through its tagged contingency for infrastructure)
- Construction work began in January 2021. Although time has been lost time due to 2021 COVID lockdowns, the project team aims to have the building ready for occupancy by Semester 1 2023. Project strategies include early procurement of materials
- Internal fitout work is underway for level 1
- The next exciting milestone will be the delivery and construction of the Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL)
- Strong sustainability focus includes following Living Building Challenge (LBC) principles, as well as using Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL) and Cross Laminated Timber (CLT)
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Introducing our new research journal (January 25 2022)
We’re excited to announce the launch of our new journal Rere Āwhio – The Journal of Applied Research & Practice.
This open access, peer-reviewed journal will be published annually by Otago Polytechnic Auckland International Campus (OPAIC).
It is concerned with views, critical debate, and reflections on issues of relevance for the programmes we offer. It seeks to address topical matters in the fields of applied management, information technology, construction, and English foundational study.
Rere Āwhio - The Journal of Applied Research and Practice sets out to collect the voices and experiences of a diverse set of practitioners, educators, learners, and thinkers, and to curate these voices in a way that can be understood by those whose interest lays not only in the why but also the how.
This journal reflects the multicultural nature of the wider New Zealand community and also the global connections that inform our practice and are influenced by our unique context.
It aims to build a community of practice amongst researchers and students from an array of New Zealand institutions and with wider global networks.
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Otago Polytechnic excited about new executive appointments (January 20 2022)
Otago Polytechnic is excited to welcome Megan Potiki and Jason Tibble to new executive leadership roles.
The pair joined Otago Polytechnic’s Te Kāhui Manukura (formerly Executive Leadership Team) on Monday, 24 January.
Megan Potiki has been appointed Manukura Tuarua - Mana Taurite/Deputy Chief Executive Partnership and Equity.
Jason Tibble will start as Manukura Tuarua - Ara Tauira/Deputy Chief Executive Learner Journey, helping ensure learners remain at the fore of our decision-making.
“Megan and Jason bring a wealth of mana, expertise and passion to Otago Polytechnic,” says Dr Megan Gibbons, Chief Executive, Otago Polytechnic.
“Megan, who joins us from the University of Otago, has also had a governance role with Otago Polytechnic for several years.
“As Manukura Tuarua - Mana Taurite/Deputy Chief Executive Partnership and Equity, she will work within the Office of the Kaitohutohu to uphold the mana of our partnerships with rūnaka and the local Māori community, and advancing the educational aspirations of iwi, hapū and whanau,” Dr Gibbons says.
“Jason, meanwhile, will bring excellent strategic thinking, great community connections and mana, as well as a new and innovative perspective into Te Kāhui Manukura, and our wider team.
“He is formerly the Regional Commissioner for the Ministry of Social Development and the Regional Public Service Commissioner for all of government in Otago and Southland.” Dr Gibbons says.
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Graduate donates garment to Otago Museum (January 20 2022)
Otago Polytechnic Fashion Design graduate Rakel Blomsterberg has gifted a much-loved item to Otago Museum.
Despite having been hounded for years to sell her Miss South America garment (pictured), one of five garments in a collection that won the 2013 iD Fashion International Emerging Designer Award, Rakel chose instead to donate it to Otago Museum’s Fashion Forward exhibition.
Read the Otago Daily Times article