GP Scheme
The Christchurch Doctors provide a General Practice service to full-time domestic students at the University of Otago, Christchurch.
International students can visit the Christchurch Doctors as a casual patient, and lodge a claim with their insurance provider.
- When making an appointment, you must indicate that you are a University of Otago Christchurch student patient and also which doctor you wish to see.
- The arrangements with The Christchurch Doctors follow negotiation with students and are covered in the Student Services Fee paid by full-time postgraduate students located in Christchurch.
- All new patients must have a nurse appointment. This is an appointment where all of the patient’s history, immunisations, medication, screenings and classifications are checked to ensure the patient’s file is correct before seeing the GP. The cost for a nurse consultation is $35 which is paid by the University in full. If you choose to see the GP at the same visit, you will be charged in full as the university only covers one visit per day. Please enquire at the Christchurch Doctor’s reception when booking you appointment if you have any questions
Visit the Christchurch Doctors website
Other General Practitioners
Other General Practitioners may be used by full-time postgraduates located in Christchurch on a case-by-case basis with approval by the relevant Associate Dean.
To organise this, please contact: alice.lepetit@otago.ac.nz for approval
Community Services Card
If you are a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident you may be eligible for a Community Services Card.
Visit the Work and Income website for more information on the Community Services Card
International students are not eligible for a community services card and should request a receipt and lodge a claim with their health insurer.
Non-subsidised services
The following services will not be subsidised by the UOC but are available from the health centre:
- House calls and after-hours
- Diving medical assessment
- Insurance report
- Immigration Medical
- Insurance medical
- Well person checks
- Depo Provera injection
- IUD insertion
- Wart removal
For after-hours medical care or pharmacy:
24-Hour Surgery
401 Madras Street
Tel +64 3 365 7777
Visit the 24-Hour Surgery website for information
In an emergency, ring an ambulance by dialling 111, or proceed straight to the Emergency Department of the Christchurch Public Hospital, 2 Riccarton Avenue.
Puawaitanga – Online Counselling
Puawaitanga is a phone and web-based service to support Kiwis to improve their emotional well-being – their hauora. The service is an alternative to face-to-face counselling for Kiwis who are struggling but face challenges in accessing traditional counselling. All staff are trained professionals and counselling sessions are private, confidential and free. Enrol here.
Flu vaccinations
The University of Otago, Christchurch, offers free vaccination clinics in April/May. Information will be sent to your student email.
External emergency support agencies
View the list of Emergency Services, Christchurch
Dental Support
Sydenham Dental Centre offers discounted services for University of Otago, Christchurch students. The discount is for $35 check-ups, and 10% off all treatments over $150 (excluding hygiene appointments).
A rough guide for prices is as follows:
- Hygiene appointments – $135 – $189
- Fillings – depending on size $179 – $312
- Extractions – straightforward starting at $235
If you would like to use these services, please mention that you are a University of Otago, Christchurch student when you make the booking. Please also be sure to bring your student ID to your appointment.
Prices are subject to change, please check with reception when booking for up-to-date prices
Discounted Gym Memberships
University of Otago, Christchurch students are eligible for ‘friends of UC’ gym membership to the University of Canterbury Rec Centre
Please see eligibility criteria and evidence required.
| MEMBERSHIP OPTIONS | 12 MONTHS | 3 MONTHS | ||
| Full Access membership | $599 | $159 | ||
| Off-Peak membership | $359 | $99 | ||
| New Member Joining Fee | $49 | |||
| Replacement Card Fee | $20 | |||
Prices are subject to change, please see the University of Canterbury Rec Centre for up-to-date prices.
UOC Student Pantry
Due to increased food costs, and the burden that has placed on students, the Department of Medicine, supported by all UOC staff established a Student Food Pantry. The pantry will include lunch and breakfast basics to support our students. Common items that will be available include toast bread and spreads, as well as cheese and tinned foods to make toasted sandwiches. There will also be a supply of breakfast cereals and fruit.
The food pantry is open to ALL UOC students 24/7 in the lower ground common room, 2 Riccarton Ave, and during business hours in the level 5 kitchen, 2 Riccarton Ave.
For more information, contact sheila.mark@otago.ac.nz
Prayer Room
UOC offers a prayer and meditation room for people of all faiths and none. It is located on level 7 of the main UOC building, at 2 Riccarton Ave. The room is mostly for quiet prayer and meditation.
Additionally, there is a Chapel that welcomes all faiths located in the main Hospital building. To find the chapel, exit the UOC building through the doors near the Nicolls centre and turn right.
Dunedin-Based Student Support
Disability Information and Support
If you have a disability, impairment, injury or medical condition that affects your ability to study, Disability Information and Support can help you.
Disability Information and Support is a student support service, that is proud to work in an environment that values diversity and respects your individuality.
Māori Centre – Te Huka Mātauraka
The Māori Centre Te Huka Mātauraka offers a home away from home for students of Māori descent, from pre-enrolment, Turāka Hou – Māori Orientation – through to pre-graduation celebrations, graduation and beyond.
Make the most of your time at the University of Otago. The Pacific Islands Centre can help you with academic assistance, scholarships and accommodation, legal and immigration matters – and more.
Otago is committed to providing international students with the most rewarding study, campus and life experience. Our International team is here to support you to make your time at Otago memorable.
