Student Showcase – a smorgasbord of activities

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