Praneeta Mahajan
Hamilton, February 22, 2023
Waikato University will be welcoming a new batch of students for the 2023 enrolments and this week has seen a lot of buzz around town with the start of the Orientation week.
Orientation is the time for new students to get acquainted with the University, Find out where things are, how to use all the systems available at the University, make themselves familiar with the spaces available for them to enjoy and get to know people who will support them during their time studying on the campus.
The Student Union at Waikato University broadcasted a message on behalf of the University earlier this week stating, “Academic Orientation will run over the first week of the Orientation Experience and is specifically designed for new students to help you settle into University study. Essential presentations will be hosted on campus so that you get all the information and support you need for your first year of study, as well as plenty of fun activities throughout the week.”
‘O Week’- a time to connect
‘O’ Week’ will run over the second week of the Orientation Experience. Hosted by the Waikato Students’ Union, O’ Week is meant for both current students and new students to have fun and make connections. There will be activities, competitions and prizes up for grabs.
The line up of events is impressive for this year’s O Week. With Breakfast Meet ups, Barbeque lunches, food truck evenings, Club evenings, Meat Pie Mile, and many fun opportunities to know your fellow students, Waikato University is ready to welcome the new students and help them ease into life at the University and for some, in the City of Hamilton.
The University app would keep the students connected and updated about all the events and highlights.
Message from Authorities
“Look after each other this O week” is the message from Waikato Police. They want students to have fun but be safe this Orientation Week. They want parents and caregivers to also take note of this advice too, so they can make sure their young people have the information they need to be safe while still having fun.
Inspector Andrea McBeth, Area Commander Hamilton City said, “We love the energy that comes when we welcome students into the city during O-week. We know that when you are meeting a whole bunch of new, exciting people and going to parties it can be easy to get swept up in the moment.
She said, “Without planning things can come unstuck. Do not leave your mates in situations where they could become isolated and unsafe. Have a plan and ensure that your new flatmates are on the same page. Remember to lock and secure your flat and your vehicle and secure your belongings.”
Waikato Police also advised all young people to take note of a few tips and suggestions if they are planning to drink while partying, like: (1) Look after your friends and stick together (2) If you plan to walk, go in pairs or groups, either way, have a plan for getting home safely at the end of your night (3) Have cash, Eftpos card or phone app to pay for transport home or arrange a trusted sober driver to collect you (4) Have a place to meet up with your friends if you get separated during the night (5) Have something substantial to eat before you head out to party (6) Have a glass of water between each alcoholic drink (7) Make sure your phone is fully charged (8) Never leave your drink unattended or accept any drinks that you have not personally seen poured, especially from strangers (8) Challenge any inappropriate comments or actions from anyone and report them to bar staff, or police if necessary.
We all have a responsibility to ensure our friends and loved ones are safe, so keep an eye out and report any concerns you have.
Police also has a message for those who seek to take advantage of vulnerable or intoxicated people – do not do this. Inspector McBeth said, “Sexual assault is unacceptable. It is never the victim’s fault and should not be tolerated in any situation. Police take sexual assault extremely seriously. We will respond to and investigate every incident reported to us.”
Everyone is reminded to be careful of where they are drinking as there are liquor bans in place in some parts of the City, which can potentially land the rule breakers in trouble.
Call 111 in an emergency if something is happening right now, illegal or suspicious.
If it has already happened you can provide information via the Police non-emergency number – call 105 or go online at 105.police.govt.nz
Praneeta Mahajan is an Indian Newslink reporter based in Hamilton.
