Stepping into a New Era
Get ready for a fresh look, folks! Otago University, a beacon of knowledge for over 150 years, is shaking things up with a new logo and Māori name. This is the most significant rebranding in its 154-year history. The changes will roll out from May 2024, following the university’s governing body’s approval.
Embracing the Māori Heritage
The University of Otago will keep its English name, but its te reo name will transition from Te Whare Wānanga o Otāgo to Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka. This new name isn’t just a bunch of words; it’s a metaphor that means “A Place of Many Firsts”.
Voices Heard, Changes Made
Stephen Higgs (Chancellor) shared that the university carried out extensive consultations with its community and mana whenua before making this change.
We have listened to the submissions from that consultation – there is strong support for this change.
Stephen Higgs, University of OtaGO cHANCELLOR
The university’s proud history continues as it dares to lead the way, just like it did as New Zealand’s first university.
Preserving the Past, Shaping the Future
More than 9000 staff, students, and alumni participated in a survey on the draft branding plans.
Our heritage and our future are both key elements to our future success. Therefore, our present coat of arms and a newly-created stylised version of our coat of arms will continue to be used in a wide variety of situations.
Stephen Higgs, University of OtaGO cHANCELLOR
A Symbol of Unity and Knowledge
A new Māori symbol, created in collaboration with mana whenua, will also be introduced. This symbol draws inspiration from the Ōtākou channel in Otago Harbour, which brings water, kai, and life to and from the region – just as the university brings and shares knowledge across Aotearoa New Zealand. It’s all about relationships, reciprocity, and the transmission of knowledge between generations.
Financial Challenges and Future Plans
The introduction of the new brand will be delayed due to the university’s current financial situation. The university has faced job losses due to a funding deficit in the sector. “The new brand won’t be used until May next year as the council balances the desire for change with the current financial situation of the university,” a spokesperson said. The changes will be rolled out over 12 months and across two financial years at a cost of $1.3 million.