Kiwi band Shapeshifter will headline this year's University of Otago Orientation Week with a Friday night show at Forsyth Barr Stadium.
The ‘‘bass-heavy soul'' act will play tracks from its upcoming sixth studio album along with better-known songs, Funktion Music spokeswoman Rebecca Caughey said in a media release.
Two other New Zealand bands - Sunshine Sound System and Wanaka electronica trio Arma Del Amor - will open the show.
Orientation Week runs from February 22 to 27.
Otago University Students' Association communications manager Tess Trotter said tickets had been selling well, especially for the super pass tickets.
‘‘Obviously, we are really excited to have [Shapeshifter] back again.
‘‘They have played a few times before. It's just a real education in New Zealand music for newbies.''
Ms Trotter said students arriving back into Dunedin were excited about the week.
‘‘There's a lot of positive feedback mainly on our Facebook page [about Orientation Week].
‘‘There's a lot of people getting quite excited. We're really excited and happy with how it's looking.''
Other events organised by OUSA that were likely to draw a good crowd were the variety show on the opening day, the comedy show featuring Chopper (Heath Franklin), the toga party and Onefest, hosted by Radio One.
Between 3000 and 5000 people were expected to attend the music events and about 3000 the toga party and comedy show, Ms Trotter said.
She had advice for students celebrating the start of the university year.
‘‘Make sure you drink plenty of water, keep an eye on your friends and look after yourself.''
Dunedin police were also advocating safety during O Week and warned ‘‘transgressions of the law'' would not be tolerated.
Inspector Jason Guthrie, of Dunedin, said he wanted students to have an enjoyable and safe introduction to their year of study.
‘‘There will be an increased police presence in North Dunedin during Orientation and any transgressions of the law will be firmly dealt with,'' Insp Guthrie said.
‘‘Lighting fires will not be tolerated and it is important that people understand the significant danger that this unlawful act presents.''
Police would be working closely with the New Zealand Fire Service, the university and the Dunedin City Council to keep everybody safe and students needed to challenge those who put their safety at risk, he said.
‘‘Use alcohol responsibly and look out for your mates and a safe and enjoyable time will be had by all.''
