File photo : RNZA trip to the foodbank is becoming an increasing occurrence for University of Otago students, as the cost-of-living crisis continues to bite. Figures provided to the Otago Daily Times showed that the Otago University Students’ Association issued 680 food parcels in 2025 — more than double what was issued in 2019 (258) and significantly up on the previous year’s 597 parcels issued. "Ultimately, our goal is to support students in overcoming any challenges that may hinder their ability to succeed in their studies." "At the time of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, oil prices increased dramatically — and Russia and Ukraine were all part of the agricultural exporter countries. "So prices increased and there was also increase in the energy inputs and other related things.

Source: Otago Daily Times February 10, 2026 16:05 UTC