The students should enjoy what Dunedin had to offer, but be wary of the dangers that existed in a large city, he said.
"There has been a trend towards increasingly violent streaks.
"Dunedin will not tolerate that trend. We will not tolerate a situation that it's not safe for you or me to walk around the city," Mr Cull said.
"Alcohol abuse is involved in a tremendous amount of offences.
"Most offenders have indulged in too much alcohol. It also makes people more likely to be victims."
The ground floor and first level of the town hall were packed for the traditional mayor's speech, with an estimated 2000 students present..
"Students bring a huge amount to Dunedin's life.
"The vibrancy you bring to the city is hugely important. Dunedin wouldn't be Dunedin without you," Mr Cull said.
"We value you enormously.
"The Dunedin community will do all it can welcome you and look after you.
"I encourage you to spread your wings in your adopted city. If you get bored here, it's you own fault.
"I want you to feel this is your first home; or at least your first second home."
Student services director David Richardson and OUSA president Harriet Geoghegan also spoke at the presentation.
The University of Otago 2011 Orientation, "Oleven", started in subdued fashion yesterday, with most students appearing more intent on queuing up for class registration than joining in the pre-semester hi-jinks.
That didn't stop everyone from the New Zealand Army to cosmetics companies setting up stalls outside the university union common room to spruik to the streams of students.
