Otago University plans permanent presence in Queenstown Lakes

The University of Otago has announced plans to create a strong and permanent presence in Queenstown Lakes.

Vice-Chancellor Grant Robertson says the University of Otago – Ōtākou Whākaihu Waka has a long history in the district and wishes to develop this further.

“Today we are signalling our intent. We want to be a part of the growth in the region and to be a part of innovative partnerships that uphold research and teaching excellence," the former deputy Prime Minster says.

"We will have a particular focus on supporting the region as a technology hub and centre for innovation."

“We want to build on our previous work which includes the delivery of rural medical training based out of Central Otago, our relationship with Queenstown Resort College and our strategic framework for the region developed in 2022. Thanks to the generosity of the Jardine family, we will also continue plans to develop the Hākitekura property at Woolshed Bay.

“Key members of the Queenstown community have been working at pace to develop Queenstown as an international technology centre and have made clear their wish to partner with the University in this endeavour.

“As an indication of our desire to be at the centre of this effort, we joined as founding members of Technology Queenstown earlier this year, but the next step is to now make clear the significance of our commitment.”

The University is taking a new approach to this development with a clear focus on partnerships.

“We are keen to collaborate with the local community, businesses and other tertiary institutions to make this a reality,” Robertson says.

“We want to create a dynamic presence in the region that drives excellence in teaching and research and finds new and innovative ways to support the growth of both the University and the region. As part of the project there is a long-term intent to develop accommodation for students and staff, most likely in a partnership model.”

Robertson explains the development will grow over time with an initial focus on delivering existing programmes, executive education and research partnerships. Over the next few years, the University will look to develop tailored programmes in partnership with industry and overseas universities.

"This project represents a strategic opportunity aligned with our Vision 2040 plan. While we are mindful or our financial situation, we believe this proposal will actually enhance our financial position.

“It is essential for the long-term growth and sustainability of the University, and we believe this opportunity exists in the Queenstown and Lakes region.”

Robertson says the plans for the area will complement the University’s existing activities on its main campus sites (Dunedin, Christchurch and Wellington) and elsewhere across the country.

“A strong presence in Queenstown and the Lakes District is a further step towards global connectivity, allowing the University to foster a dynamic exchange of knowledge, experiences and networks both regionally and worldwide.

“This aligns with our ambition to be a more globally connected institution, enriching the academic landscape with diverse perspectives and fostering a comprehensive understanding of regional and international challenges.”

Robertson and other university leaders are in Queenstown today and will meet with community stakeholders to share ideas and seek feedback on opportunities for partnerships.

This afternoon the University, in partnership with the Queenstown Chamber of Commerce, is hosting a community panel discussion about Artificial Intelligence, AI – Opportunity, Hype, or Both?

Panellists include Director of the University’s Centre for AI and Public Policy, Emeritus Professor James McLaurin; Dean of the School of Computing, Associate Professor Grant Dick; and Chair of the University of Otago-hosted Dodd Walls Centre governance board, Charlotte Walshe. This event is open to the public.

Q&A with Grant Robertson on the plans

What stage is planning at?

University Council has recently given approval for Senior Leaders to progress planning of our future presence in Queenstown. Work is now underway to develop partnerships to take the project forward, and to further scope out the details including financial plans.

What do you envisage a physical presence might look like or be located?

We are still in the planning stage, but we know that to make this project work in the medium to long term we will need to have accommodation for staff and students. This would be in addition to our current Hākitekura facility at Woolshed Bay. We will also look to work with others in the region to make use of existing facilities.

What are your plans for the curriculum?

We would expect to start with some existing programmes, executive education and some research partnerships. We are working towards a curriculum created and delivered in partnership with leading global technology companies and/or partnering tertiary institutions.

How much is this going to cost?

This announcement is about signalling our intent. We are in the preliminary phase and costings are currently being worked on. The focus is now on exploring potential partnerships.

What will be the role for iwi/mana whenua?

The University is currently in overall partnership discussions with mana whenua. We will look to co-operate closely on this development wherever we can.

Can the University afford to do this?

We are aware of the financial constraints facing the University. This proposal represents an opportunity to enhance our financial sustainability. It also presents a strategic opportunity to translate the aspirations set out in our strategic plan Vision 2040 to move to a future characterised by educational excellence, impactful research and global connectedness.

Is there a timeframe for when you want to achieve this by?

The project will build over time, but within the next five years we are aiming to launch new and innovative programmes from a base in the Queenstown and Lakes District.

Queenstown has a number of infrastructure issues, how will the University’s plans impact on this?

The University is aware of some of the current challenges facing Queenstown and is mindful of this in its planning. For example, it has an intent to plan for accommodation for both students and staff. We also believe we can make a difference with the expertise of our academic staff. For example, we have experts working in areas like energy and transport where we hope we will be able to assist to find solutions.

What is the University’s current presence in the Queenstown Lakes?

A property at Jack’s Point was donated by the Jardine family to the University of Otago’s Foundation Trust in 2016. The University is continuing to work on developments at Hākitekura and very much see it supporting the plans being announced today.

In 2022, the University strengthened its partnership with the Central Otago and Lakes District through the launch of a strategic framework to develop opportunities and enhance relationships with the region.

As well as being a founding member of Technology Queenstown, the University has significant investment in the Queenstown and Lakes District and more broadly into Central Otago through its rural medical education programmes with staff and students at both Dunstan Hospital in Clyde, which expanded to a full rural immersion hub this year, and Lakes District Hospital in Queenstown as well as in general practices throughout the region. It also has a long-standing relationship with Queenstown Resort College.