The University of Otago is New Zealand’s oldest university, founded in 1869, and currently offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate Programs with a strong emphasis on research and academic excellence. Otago’s attractive campus is a mixture of historic and modern buildings located in the centre of Dunedin.
The University’s campus is ranked the 5th most beautiful in the world by THE Student Voice, and Otago students rate its campus lifestyle as one of its strongest attractions. The students live as a community immediately around the campus area and have a wide range of Clubs and Societies to choose from. Within an hour’s drive of the campus, students can explore some of the region’s most spectacular scenic and outdoor attractions. The extreme seasons of the greater Otago province lend themselves towards snow sports in winter, water sports in summer, and a variety of sightseeing tours and wildlife reserves.
About New Zealand and Dunedin
New Zealand is rated the 1st most beautiful country by Rough Guides 2024, is renowned for its natural beauty, Māori heritage, and multicultural society, providing a friendly, inclusive environment for students and residents.
The University of Otago is in Dunedin, on the southeastern coast of New Zealand’s South Island. Dunedin is known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, featuring Victorian and Edwardian architecture, picturesque hills, and wildlife reserves.
Our 20,000 students make up one-sixth of Dunedin’s population, creating an energy and atmosphere that you’ll only find at Otago. The town and the University campus developed together, making Dunedin one of a handful of places worldwide where education is the city’s main activity. All of Dunedin’s cafés, music venues, designer boutiques and stores, museums and galleries are never more than a short walk away.
When it comes to sport, Otago takes on the best in the world. The University’s facilities are state-of-the-art, and New Zealand’s only covered sports field, Forsyth Barr Stadium, is right on your doorstep for top-level rugby.
Adventure Awaits in Dunedin
Dunedin is a small city located between mountains, the harbour and the sea. The temperate climate brings warm summers and mild winters, with some frost and occasional snowfalls. No other city in the country has the same range, quality and accessibility of leisure activities. Ride the best waves in the world, take on mighty mountain biking tracks, paddleboard, kayak or sail on the harbour, or head to Central Otago for a weekend on New Zealand’s top ski fields. Imagine changing out of your wetsuit, then walking to the city centre for lunch or snowboarding all day and getting home in time to catch your favourite band. It’s just part of life in Dunedin.
Travel and Living Costs
Information for Visiting Students
Students who are not enrolled in a program of study should register their visit.
Photo Gallery of Otago
