OPSITARA Research


Nationally and internationally, there is a growing realization that publishing research open access, instead of behind a paywall, is important and necessary. Open access publication promotes equity by making research accessible to other researchers in institutions that don't have big library budgets. Open access publication also helps to make research available to our iwi, communities, professions and industries, so that it is easier for people to read, build on and apply. We are proud to have been early adopters of open access publication. Our academic journals have been open access from the outset in 2003, and Otago Polytechnic adopted an open approach to Intellectual Property by default back in 2007. 

We look forward to continuing to make our research as openly accessible as possible. This e-magazine is part of our commitment to do this, to help ensure that our research is not only useful but also used.

Prof Leoni Schmidt
Director: Research and Postgraduate Studies
ISSN 2624-084X


  1. Every Minute is Precious

    What best represents an hour of your time? Read more…
  2. Love, Loss and Loneliness in the Age of Isolation

    The pandemic has inspired artists to express in their artworks the experiences they shared with others. Read more…
  3. Sound pods for private conversations

    New style booths may be making a comeback for the open plan office. Read more…
  4. Supporting distressed students

    New research is already helping educators to support learners struggling with their mental health. Read more…
  5. Our Sacred Māori Voices

    A new book gives voice to Māori learners writing about their life experiences. Ka whakapuaki tētahi pukapuka hou i te reo o kā tauira ... Read more…
  6. Land movement

    Coastal land stability issues were the subject of research projects by several of our Civil Engineering students. Read more…
  7. The write stuff

    Additional strategies are helping students develop the literacy skills they need for occupational therapy practice. Read more…
  8. Drinking culture

    Drink driving is particularly dangerous on rural roads. Read more…
  9. The pervasiveness of plastic

    Website development by our staff and students helps to showcase findings on microplastics distribution in our southern waterways. Read more…