513 days ago

Otago Uni head steps down following health battle

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from Dunedin News

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.

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22 hours ago

Poll: Is it rude to talk on the phone on a bus?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Buses can be a relaxing way to get home if you have a seat and enough space. However, it can be off-putting when someone is taking a phone call next to you.

Do you think it's inconsiderate for people to have lengthy phone calls on a bus? Vote in the poll, and add your comments below.

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Is it rude to talk on the phone on a bus?
  • 65.5% Yes
    65.5% Complete
  • 32% No
    32% Complete
  • 2.5% Other - I'll share below
    2.5% Complete
995 votes
3 hours ago

Floor show

The Team from Resene ColorShop Dunedin

Spruce up your outdoor area for spring soirées in the sun with a simple but stylish rug you can personalise with your own design using your favourite Resene colours.

Find out how to create your own with these easy step by step instructions.

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9 hours ago

Unlock the Answer: Today’s Riddle is Trickier Than You Think!

Riddler from The Neighbourly Riddler

What English word retains the same pronunciation, even after you take away four of its five letters?

Do you think you know the answer to our daily riddle? Don't spoil it for your neighbours! Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm.

Want to stop seeing riddles in your newsfeed?
Head here and hover on the Following button on the top right of the page (and it will show Unfollow) and then click it. If it is giving you the option to Follow, then you've successfully unfollowed the Riddles page.

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