Hands-On at Otago is a program that is held at the University of Otago. Only 371 students were selected out of over 700 who applied. Four of our Waitākere College students were lucky enough to find a place amongst those selected. The program provided had students take on a main project and also three random taster subjects across one week. This program helped students to see what University life was like away from home. This also helped further their decisions on which university they plan on going to and what they plan to study after their journey at Waitākere College.

"Hands-On at Otago was an unforgettable experience. I got eye-opening insights into uni life at Otago, where I learned heaps and got to make lifelong friends. My main project was Chemistry, where we did a lot of sophisticated experiments and spent our time in a professional university lab. My other projects were: Pharmacy - professionally making our own lip balm and sunscreen, Geography - flying drones and International Business - learning about other countries’ customs and businesses.
Aside from learning, there were many games and activities (and partying) that made the experience more fun. We were also able to explore the town and many other Dunedin attractions, 10/10 I would recommend it."
- Alex

"I am blessed to have been a part of Hands-On at Otago and to have met wonderful people in the theatre and dance project who truly do feel like a second family. Between how nice and silly we are to each other with a bit of banter, there have been many laughs throughout the week in Otago and I am looking forward to our next reunion. From what I have learned surrounding spontaneity and selective extroversion, I know that I can implement this into my practical life. Now I find myself less afraid of what people think of me, this has already helped me be more involved at school."
- Bree

"Hands-on at Otago (HOAO) was a wonderful experience. I was able to meet students from all over Auckland and New Zealand, who were so sociable and friendly. The project I participated in was Physics. My first thought about this project was that it was “boring.” However, throughout the week we carried out interesting investigations and listened to lectures about topics such as reading lightning, construction of radios, the sun, and many more topics. There were so many activities running throughout the week, my favourite activity was the Big Night Out, though the music needed improvement. I am thankful for the Mana Māori scholarship I received which paid for my entire stay and the cooks for making delicious dinners."
- Elisha

"Hands-on at Otago 2024 was an amazing opportunity to identify my true passion. Throughout the week I was able to experience the life of a marine science student which consisted of trips to beaches and a range of activities from finding large sea lions to microscopic plankton as well as participating in a shark and squid dissection. My other subjects were genetics, marketing, and chemistry which has allowed me to expand my interest. Other than experiencing the university, we got to experience the routine, the people, and the city of Dunedin. I am thankful for this opportunity to attend Hands-On 2024 and would recommend students to consider attending Hands-On 2025!"
- Epeli

"This whole experience has changed our lives and we highly encourage the current Year 11 and 12s to apply for this opportunity so that they could be a part of next year’s Hands On at Otago!"