First awarded in 1908, the University of Otago Blues have long been regarded as one of the highest honours a student can receive for sporting achievement. Over time, the awards have evolved to celebrate not only sporting excellence, but also outstanding achievement in the arts, culture, leadership, service, and community contribution through the addition of the Golds and other major awards categories.

These awards exist to recognise the incredible things Otago students achieve both on and beyond campus - whether that be representing New Zealand on the world stage, creating award-winning artistic work, leading positive change in the community, supporting student culture, or contributing to the success of clubs, teams, and organisations.

The Blues and Golds Awards celebrate students who have demonstrated excellence at a regional, national, or international level, including through:

• Representative selection
• Competition and championship results
• Festival or exhibition selection
• Publication or performance
• Leadership and service
• Artistic and cultural achievement
• Other outstanding contributions within their chosen field

We know there are many talented and dedicated students doing incredible things that often go unnoticed and the Blues and Golds Awards are an opportunity to celebrate and acknowledge those achievements.

Click here to read about last years winners and awards evening

Key Documents

• University of Otago Blues and Golds Policy
• University of Otago Blues and Golds Awards Criteria
• University of Otago Blues and Golds Awards Panel Terms of Reference

Nominations

Nominations are open to all current eligible University of Otago students. Students may nominate themselves or be nominated by staff, peers, clubs, organisations, or community members. 

Nominations should relate to achievements, contributions, or performances completed during the applicable awards period immediately preceding the awards cycle. For the 2026 Awards, eligible achievements must have occurred between 1 June 2025 - 31 May 2026

Submission forms will be linked below when Nominations officially open. If you know someone that's done incredible things - nominate them!

2026 Timeline

• June 1st  – Nominations Open
• July 20th – Nominations Close
• Early August – Panel Meeting
• Late September – Awards Ceremony

Award Categories

University of Otago Blues

The Blues Awards for sporting excellence are a long standing tradition that have been awarded at the University of Otago since 1908 – these are the greatest accolade that can be awarded to those University of Otago students that excel in their chosen sporting field.

University of Otago Golds

The Golds Awards are the highest accolade that the University of Otago can bestow on those University of Otago students involved in the cultural sphere. They reward excellence and exceptional achievement in the chosen artistic or cultural field. OUSA has awarded Golds Awards since 2002.

University of Otago Sportsperson of the Year

The University of Otago Sportsperson of the Year Award and the University of Otago Highly Commended Sportsperson of the Year Awards recognise the high performance, service and example in their chosen field, including expressing the ideals of true sportsmanship.

University of Otago Māori Sportsperson of the Year

This Taonga, first awarded in 2000, recognises the most outstanding Māori Sportsperson at the University of Otago. This person best represents Māori through their performances in top-level sport.

University of Otago Outstanding Contribution to Arts & Culture

Honours an individual who exemplify dedication in their chosen field, embodying the values of true commitment and service to the arts and culture community. Nominees must present compelling evidence of their exceptional contributions and the substantial positive impact of their work.

OUSA Society of the Year

Recognising excellence in the management, administration and promotion of any OUSA Affiliated Club or Society. Providing positive community awareness and engagement.

OUSA Cultural Society of the Year

Recognises excellence within affiliated cultural clubs and societies, including community engagement, leadership, and promotion of cultural connection and awareness.

OUSA Sports Club of the Year

Recognising excellence in the management, administration and promotion from an OUSA Affiliated Sports Club. Providing positive community awareness and engagement.

OUSA Silver Service Award

OUSA awards a Silver Service Award to University of Otago students and members of its affiliated Clubs to recognise the exceptional contributions made by these people. This may involve Administration, Coaching, Managing, Officiating and other important contributions.

OUSA Coach of the Year

Recognises the significant input and achievements of coaches in the community. This Award is available to any coach coaching an OUSA Affiliated Club or any University of Otago student coaching anywhere in the country.

Outstanding Member of the University of Otago Community

This award highlights a student who has been an integral part of the University of Otago community and deserves recognition. For example, a student who has shown impressive leadership skills to benefit the student body or has been an exceptional volunteer at university or OUSA events.

Outstanding Member of the Dunedin Community

Recognises students who have demonstrated exceptional contribution and leadership within the wider Dunedin community through volunteering, advocacy, environmental initiatives, mentoring, or community service.