Afternoon Tea with the VC | Welcoming Otago Whānau to Campus

Hundreds of parents and caregivers of first-year tauira gathered on the Clocktower Lawn for a special afternoon tea hosted by Vice-Chancellor Grant Robertson at the University of Otago. Held for the first time in 2026, the event was a warm and informal way to welcome whānau into the Otago community. With campus tours, kōrero with support services, and time to connect over tea, the afternoon offered reassurance that tauira are supported every step of the way. From Student Health and Career Development to the Māori and Pacific centres, representatives were on hand to answer questions and share how Otago supports students to thrive – academically, socially and personally. Starting university is a major milestone for both students and their families. This event reflected Otago’s commitment to manaakitanga, community, and ensuring every tauira knows they are never alone.