Growing up in the Coromandel, Otama spent his childhood surfing, playing sports, and exploring the bush. His love for nature led him to the University of Canterbury | Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha (UC), to study Environmental Science and Geography.
“Christchurch felt like the natural next step for me,” he says. “It has the perfect balance of the outdoors, rugby, and a great music scene.”
At UC, Otama developed a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness between people and the environment. “Everything is one. What I do has an impact, and what happens elsewhere affects me. It really reinforced the Māori concept of whenua – our connection to the land.”
His time in Christchurch also provided an opportunity to reconnect with his Māori heritage. “I always knew I was Māori, but I hadn’t really explored what that meant for me. Coming to Christchurch gave me opportunities to acknowledge my ancestry.
He says UC Māori was invaluable. “Having that space to talk to people, whether they were students or lecturers, made a big difference. I also got opportunities you don’t really get elsewhere like attending Ngāi Tahu meetings, which has been really cool.”
As part of his final-year studies, Otama worked on a community-driven environmental project in New Brighton, addressing public concerns about local infrastructure and sustainability. “Our project focused on a stretch of Marine Parade set for redevelopment using earthquake recovery funding.”
He says he enjoyed the human side of the project, which involved engaging with the community to gather feedback and ensure the plans reflected their needs. At the same time, he recognised the importance of balancing these desires with the need for infrastructure that would reduce the significant flood risk, prevent property damage, and ensure long-term safety.
The project team’s results were later presented to the Christchurch City Council by the local Board.
While academia was a priority, rugby played a crucial role in maintaining balance. “Saturday was my off switch from study, where I could just focus on the game.” Playing Premier Grade Rugby for Marist Albion, he trained alongside professional players, including members of the Crusaders and All Blacks. “The level of rugby here is unreal. One of my first games, I played alongside someone who became an All Black that year.”
Now a graduate, Otama is starting his career as a lab technician at Ravensdown. “I’m excited to apply what I’ve learned in a practical setting. There’s lots of opportunity for career progression.”
As he embarks on this next chapter, Otama remains open to new opportunities. “One door closes, another opens.”
Otama will celebrate his graduation at the 2025 Autumn Graduation Celebrations in early April.
