Polytechnic operations deputy executive director Max Sims said it was planning on moving its Forth St English Language Centre and St David St Kōwhai Centre to new locations on its main Dunedin campus where there was free space.
Once vacated, the surplus properties would be put on the market.
"These decisions are part of our drive for good business practice and a continual reflection on how we are operating."
The English Language Centre assisted students in improving their English reading, writing and speaking skills. It was the former residence of renowned artist Ralph Hotere, ONZ, and was later owned by poet Cilla McQueen.
The property was an ageing asset that would require more money to maintain it to an acceptable standard.
"It makes sense to accommodate staff and students at our main campus where we have free space in more up-to-date buildings," Mr Sims said.
The Kōwhai Centre was used to provide free counselling support to the community.
Student counsellors from the Polytechnic’s bachelor of social services programme offered supportive counselling to members of the public part-time in a training environment under NZAC supervision.
Mr Sims said the centre would move to the sixth floor of H Block at the main Dunedin Campus.
"We see this as a natural fit, given social services staff already work in this block and rooms will require minimal change to convert them into counselling rooms."
Increasing the number of rooms would allow the polytechnic to increase the potential number of enrolments for the bachelor of social services programme.
The plan was to move out of the St David St site in November and to have the new Kōwhai Centre operational from January 2026.
Mr Sims said these moves would enable Otago Polytechnic to lower its current operating costs and provide the opportunity to sell the St David St and Forth St properties in 2026.
— APL
