Otago University cancels its annual law camp

  • 05/03/2018
Otago University has canceled its annual law camp amid complaints of excessive drinking, nudity and jelly wrestling.
Otago University has canceled its annual law camp amid complaints of excessive drinking, nudity and jelly wrestling. Photo credit: File

Otago University has scrapped its annual law camp following complaints of past excessive drinking, nudity and jelly wrestling. 

The student-organised camp which has been running for more than 10 years was due to run this weekend, but came under review because of complaints about events at past camps.

The university had two complaints laid from parents last year, as well as concerns that have been raised in the last two days. 

Pro-Vice Chancellor Tony Ballantyne says "this afternoon we met with representatives from Society of Otago University Law Students (SOULS), and I chose to withdraw the University's support of this upcoming camp.

"As a result, SOULS has decided to cancel this year's law camp."

This comes after NZME reported a woman who attended the 2012 event said girls were picked and told to jelly wrestle, with some uncomfortable but obliging out of social pressure.

Mr Ballantyne says they "deeply appreciated the work SOULS has done to make this year's event as safe as possible in light of concerns that were raised last year".

"We understand how disappointing this might be for some students," he explained, "but due to the concerns raised in the last 48 hours, we believe that a rethink and redesign of the event is required".

"We have offered our support to SOULS today in assisting with future events that will be collegial, respectful and enjoyable for participants."

The university would not be commenting on individual staff members, and welcomed any further concerns people had.

Newshub.