For first time, the University of Otago has added more than a billion dollars to Dunedin's economy.The university today released its annual economic impact report, which indicates $1.044 billion spent in Dunedin in 2018 was directly related to the university. Vice-chancellor Prof Harlene Hayne said the report highlighted the university's contribution to its "hometown". "For the University to add an estimated $1.050 billion to the Dunedin economy shows its deep connection and contribution to its hometown. Across the country, the university contributed about $1.163 billion to the economy, via its sites in Dunedin, Christchurch, Wellington, Invercargill and Auckland. "The impacts are far-reaching across many sectors of the economy, with the institution and its staff and students spending widely in local businesses.

Source: Otago Daily Times May 13, 2019 23:37 UTC