Otago Uni head steps down following health battle
The University of Otago vice-chancellor is stepping down
Professor David Murdoch, who has battled ill-health, will take a position as a distinguished professor at the university’s Christchurch campus.
“I am deeply thankful for all the support I received while I was ill recently.”
He had made a full recovery, but that had led to he and his wife “to reflect on our future direction”.
“This led to the difficult decision to take up new opportunities and to undertake a different pathway at this time.”
Murdoch would also take up opportunities with the University of Oxford.
Chancellor Stephen Higgs thanked him for his contributions to Otago University during his time as cice-chancellor.
“David is one of New Zealand’s foremost experts in infectious diseases and we are delighted that he will be able to continue to contribute to this important field and others in his capacity as Distinguished Professor.”
Murdoch was appointed to the position of vice-chancellor at the start of February 2022.
Deputy vice-chancellor Professor Helen Nicholson would continue in the role of acting vice-chancellor until a permanent replacement was found.
Nicholson had fronted media after it was revealed the tertiary institution was facing a $60 million deficit, with the potential loss of hundreds of jobs.
Meanwhile, a global search process would be undertaken to find a permanent replacement.
Poll: Should we be giving the green light to new mining projects? 💰🌲
The Environmental Protection Authority announced this week that a proposed mine in Central Otago (near Cromwell) is about to enter its fast-track assessment process. A final decision could come within six months, and if it’s approved, construction might start as early as mid-2026.
We want to know: Should mining projects like this move ahead?
Keen to dig deeper? Mike White has the scoop.
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53.5% Yes
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46.5% No
🚒 Our Fire and Emergency crews have been kept busy lately
And they’re once again reminding everyone: please don’t light fires when it’s windy.
Central Otago will move into a restricted fire season from 1 December 2025, which means anyone planning an outdoor fire will need to apply for a permit and plan ahead.
So we’d love to ask you — how do you make sure you’re being fire-safe at this time of year?
A riddle to start the festive season 🌲🎁🌟
I'm a fruit. If you take away my first letter, I'm a crime. If you take away my first two letters, I'm an animal. If you take away my first and last letter, I'm a form of music. What am I?
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!
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