University of Otago Stories

Kiwi Stories

University of Otago stories

Force majeure declared on all forecasts for 2026

Geopolitical tensions and higher fuel costs are clouding New Zealand's 2026 outlook, with economists warning of slower growth and firmer inflation.

By Staff Writer • 3 min read • Sat, 21st Mar 2026

EduTech

NZ universities accepting English proficiency tests through Duolingo

New Zealand universities now accept Duolingo English tests from overseas students, reflecting a global shift in language proficiency checks.

By Gill Bonnett • 3 min read • Thu, 8th Jan 2026

EduTech

AI adoption could boost NZ productivity by NZD $108 billion by 2038

AI could boost New Zealand's productivity by NZD $108 billion by 2038, doubling current rates through improved skills, infrastructure, and public sector digitisation.

By Sean Mitchell • 4 min read • Wed, 3rd Dec 2025

University of Otago

Not great news for the anti fluoride brigade

A long-term US study finds recommended fluoride levels in drinking water do not harm cognition and may slightly improve school test scores.

By Staff Writer • 3 min read • Tue, 25th Nov 2025

Health Technologies

KiwiNet Awards celebrate innovators driving real-world impact

The 2025 KiwiNet Awards celebrated New Zealand innovators transforming research into global-impact solutions across tech, health and sustainability sectors.

By Shannon Williams • 4 min read • Thu, 23rd Oct 2025

Data Protection

AI-scribes boost GP efficiency but raise ethics concerns in NZ care

AI-powered transcription tools boost efficiency for 40% of New Zealand GPs but spark ethical and data security concerns amid evolving regulations.

By Sean Mitchell • 4 min read • Tue, 12th Aug 2025

Power / Energy

Toast Electric expands to help families facing winter hardship

Toast Electric is expanding to Horowhenua and Wairarapa, aiding New Zealand families struggling with winter energy hardship through discounted electricity and support programmes.

By Melania Watson • 4 min read • Thu, 12th Jun 2025

AR, VR & Metaverse

Virtual reality app oVRcome reduces social anxiety by 35%

A clinical trial in New Zealand shows the virtual reality app oVRcome cuts social anxiety symptoms by 35.3%, marking a breakthrough in mental health treatment.

By Sean Mitchell • 2 min read • Mon, 18th Nov 2024

EduTech

Otago University to establish tech hub presence in Queenstown

The University of Otago plans a permanent site in Queenstown, aiming to boost local growth and technology innovation, aligned with Vision 2040.

By Shannon Williams • 3 min read • Fri, 4th Oct 2024

Sustainability

How rolling back insulation standards would impact health and the economy

The move could leave more New Zealanders in cold, damp homes, worsening respiratory illness and raising pressure on the health system.

By Michael Curreen • 4 min read • Fri, 19th Jul 2024

Physical Security

What does the Siouxsie Wiles case mean for health and safety?

Employers may now have to do more to protect staff from online abuse after a court found a university breached health and safety duties.

By Michael Curreen • 2 min read • Tue, 9th Jul 2024

Massey University

New law to bypass resource consents sets off alarm bells

Experts warn the proposed fast-track regime could cut community input and leave major projects with weaker environmental scrutiny.

By Staff Writer • 6 min read • Wed, 6th Mar 2024

University of Otago

Technology Queenstown unveils plan to transform district into tech hub

Tech Queenstown targets to mould Queenstown Lakes District into a global tech hub, leveraging its potential for a bustling tech sector set to generate $1bn annual GDP by 2043.

By Tom Raynel • 3 min read • Mon, 5th Feb 2024