Even this could have been taken as a starting point when contemplating a kava policy at Otago. As an institution, Otago is well within its rights to adopt a kava policy for reasons it articulates in the communication. In my 15 years at Otago, kava has sporadically been used in ceremonial and social settings. The social use referred to here should not be confused with the popular understanding of the term nor the consumption of kava in kava bars and kava clubs. I urge leaders leading the kava policy proposal to facilitate a dialogue or talanoa over kava or any other non-alcoholic beverage of choice.

Source: Otago Daily Times February 19, 2026 22:34 UTC