CANTA ISSUE 4, 2024

CANTALENDAR

22nd April 24th April

Nuclear Priest Screening @ Deluxe Cinemas – The Tannery, 8pm

23rd April

Immigration Advice Day @ Bentley’s, 10am

Wānanga Ikura with Para Kore @ Riverlution Eco Hub, 6pm

25th April 26th April 27th April

Anzac Day Service @ UC Matariki Quad, 10am – 11am

Crusaders v Rebels @ Orangetheory Stadium, 7:05pm Kick off

Suffocation @ The Loons in Lyttelton, 8pm

Lee Mvtthews @ Christchurch Town Hall, 8pm – 1pm

1st May

Darkroom Open Mic Night @ Darkroom, 7pm – 10pm

2nd May

Indian Short Film Night @ Alice Cinemas, 7pm – 8.30pm

4th May

Crusaders v Reds @ Orangetheory Stadium, 4:35pm Kick off

5th May

Annual Canterbury Snow Sale @ HaereRoa, All Day

3rd May

Space Hole @ Good Times Comedy Club, 6pm – 7pm

6th May

Next Canta Magazine Drop!

Editorial Editorial

I kind of forgot how I start these off, but hey! Good to see you’ve picked up the first issue of Canta for term two! Not loving the fact break is over, but let’s be real, is it really a break? All the lecturers give us assignments to do, which sucks. Personally, I am not a fan, but what am I going to do? Absolutely nothing, as I don’t have the time, because I’m wasting my break doing assignments.

Full circle moment, huh?

The Canta Drugs issue is a big one. Here, we essentially try to not breach the terms of our Editorial Policy by ensuring we do not tell you to do drugs and whatnot. But we have to be realistic – you are all going to do it anyway.

Even if Canta was going to tell you to do or not to do drugs or to drink alcohol, who are we to tell you what to do? This issue is here for you to read all the need-toknows about substances and how to take them safely. We want each and every one of you to be safe while you are having fun. It’s as simple as that.

As a chemistry student – nerd alert – I have learnt a lot about molecules, synthesis, and more fun stuff that I would have probably learnt in med chem if I took those papers. Understanding how drugs work at a molecular level is incredibly confusing, so of course no one really knows what is going on.

This is why it is so incredibly important to get your drugs tested! Know Your Stuff has a pretty cool mass spectrometer which they use to be able to see what is in your drugs, and they are really kind and can answer pretty much any questions you may have. It is also anonymous and you won’t get arrested – bonus! In all seriousness: we need to be more open about

drug use, substance abuse, and addiction. It shouldn’t be a taboo topic. By sweeping it under the rug, we are essentially brushing it off as if it doesn’t exist. It’s everywhere, so we need to learn and help educate everyone, so if they chose to take drugs, they can do so of their own accord and in an informed manner.

More importantly, no one should be shamed for what they choose to do, or not to do, in their personal time. Everyone is welcome to their own opinions. Sometimes as humans, we tend to forget that.

Drugs can also be super helpful as well! Paracetamol is my personal favourite whenever I get a headache; there’s approved and prescribed medicinal cannabis for those who are in excruciating pain; or even the importance of anaesthetic for surgery or pain-relief. Drugs are everywhere. We just need to be able to see the bigger picture, not just the negative aspects.

Good luck to those who are currently studying for mid-terms and those who are handing in chunky assignments. Everyone here at Canta has your back and knows you will do such a fabulous job. Head to our entertainment section if you ever need a break –we know you’ll need it!

Up the Wah’s and the Hurricanes (please don’t hurt me),

Your 2024 Managing Editor,

Hariklia Nicola

President's Piece

Hey y’all, welcome back! As always, I’m Luc. I hope you are all well rested and have caught up on all those lectures you missed last term (or at least thought about doing it to feel better about yourself). In this week’s issue, drugs. Something I know very little about. I’ll tell you what I do know about and that’s…

!!FREE MONEY!!

Like any great wanna be influencer would, I will happily resort to clickbait to get your attention. It is difficult, I must confess, to gather an accurate student voice when my job requires a lot of time being a representative and not a lot of time being a student. So, for 5 lucky winners, you’ll win a free coffee voucher to use at any of our food and beverage outlets! Just email me about how you feel regarding the student experience, what you’ll look back on and what you’ll be happy to leave behind (a few bullet points is fine). I will give a prize to: the first, the funniest, the most (constructively) critical, and two spot prizes. I look forward to reading your replies in my inbox at president@ucsa.org.nz.

!!MORE FREE MONEY!!

7th of May, UCSA AGM. You get free shit just for turning up. Plus, we’ll do a raffle for some more free stuff at the end in case that’s not enough for you already. Freebies aside, the AGM is a great opportunity to raise any questions or concerns in a public setting. The AGM in general can give you some pretty good ideas on what’s going on around you in the student space that you might be completely oblivious to. 7th May, 12pm-1pm, see you there!

I realise that my role as president is shrouded in mystery. What do I do all day? Who pays me? Can I change that 8am mandatory lecture time? The answer to that last one is no. But I can certainly provide some feedback to the university on it. Sometimes, there is a real disconnect between staff and students, and part of my role is to advocate for us as students to the university. My job is to literally be your voice. But what I have noticed is that the university as a body wants to make your learning as good as possible, but a big barrier to them achieving that sometimes is the mere fact that they are not students and they don’t have to deal with dumpster fire learn pages in the same way we do. Don’t be afraid, tell someone if you feel that the system is working against you. I promise you that, sometimes, it is that they just don’t know.

To wrap up my piece (thanks to those few committed readers xx), I would like to congratulate those who graduated a few weeks ago. It was a pleasure to attend and celebrate the great successes of our students. Perseverance will get you there. So keep your head up, and your grades higher, and you’ll be fine! If you’re ever struggling, don’t forget to use the various forms of help available across campus. All of these services are

to help you succeed, not just academically, but socially, mentally, and physically too.

For a change in photo, I’ve gone with a nice pic of me at grad. It may not be the prettiest, but that’s who you voted for. I had a lovely time celebrating the successes of our students. I hope to one day see you all cross that stage, but until then, turn your phone off and get onto your assignments!

Enjoy your first week back. Don’t fall further behind, future you will only regret it. As always, stay fresh!

Tumuaki Piece

Mauri ora e te whānau,

Drugs.

Whether you find them delicious or despicable, they are here and they are here to stay.

Even if they aren’t for you, if you grace town, flat parties, or those sweet Foundry floors, it won’t be long until you have an encounter with a wide-eyed individual asking you how your nights going and if you want a hoon on their vape.

For some, going to university goes hand-in-hand with their first taste of freedom, adulthood, and understandably a wee bit of experimentation.

Some come a bit more seasoned, having dabbled in this and/or that.

Some may come having seen or experienced the harm that substance abuse can cause and want to stay as far away from drugs as they can.

Some of y’all are just wholesome af, and I’m here for it. Don’t let peer pressure change you pookie.

Doing drugs is just like life at UC, it’s all about choice. This is one of the realities of adulthood, you can do whatever you want to as long as you’re willing to deal with the consequences. No matter what D.A.R.E. might try to tell you, drugs aren’t really evil, however, they do come with risks.

The last two summers, I have had the privilege of volunteering for Psy-Care NZ, an amazing harm reduction organisation dedicated to providing a calm and secure space for festival-goers who are overwhelmed or struggling. During those times I supported many people, from those who were having the time of their lives needing nothing more than a cup of water and a sit down, to those who were having profound, challenging, and life-changing psychological experiences.

This opportunity affirmed two things for me. Firstly, the importance of harm reduction practices. People will do drugs regardless of legality. If a giraffe puppet can’t convince you to abstain, I doubt I’ll be able to get the job done, so instead here’s some basic harm reduction tips.

Do your research, know what you’re taking, how much you should have, and what you shouldn’t mix with it. Moderate your consumption (it’s a marathon not a sprint), stay fed and hydrated, sleep, make sure your headspace is right, and that you have good people around you. Lastly, please, please, please, please, please get your drugs tested. It’s legal and free at many places thanks to a cool organisation called Know Your

Stuff, they are also an amazing source of information for those looking to partake safely.

Secondly, without a doubt, alcohol is the most harmful substance that is readily available to us. I have interacted with people on all sorts of different substances, and the interactions in which alcohol was heavily involved were easily among the most concerning. To paraphrase my good friend Pierce’s article from last year, if we held alcohol to the same standards as we do other drugs, it would be illegal. Science has my back on this one. Professor D J Nutt (2010) completed a multicriteria decision analysis on the harms of drugs in the U.K. and found that alcohol was rated as the most harmful due to the harms that it causes others and the wider community. A similar NZ based study was published last year (Crossin R, et al.) with similar results. Maybe the law has some catching up to do aye.

To close, I want to give a shoutout to my good friends at UC’s premier drug-adjacent political & social club, BudSoc. They protest for the legalisation of cannabis most Fridays, 4:20pm at the big tree in the Ilam gardens. All are welcome so feel free to go and get amongst it. Heck, I might even see ya there ;)*

Chur nui,

Kiwa Kahukura Denton (He/They)

Tumuaki o Te Akatoki

* (for legal reasons this is a joke)

Canta News.

Save the Arts Centre – Campaign to help prevent insolvency

Left out of the City Council’s Draft Long Term Plan, Te Matatiki Toi Ora The Arts Centre could face insolvency, says its creative director.

The Draft Long Term Plan, a document detailing Council spending for the upcoming decade, was released for public feedback last month, with submissions closing on April 21.

While the Plan featured a 12.4% average residential rates increase for next year, $226 million on improving existing roads, cycleways, and footpaths in the first three years, and a $480 million investment of capital spend into renewing and upgrading drinking water, stormwater, wastewater, and flood protection, the Arts Centre was given no allocation.

According to the City Council, during consultation for its 2021-31 plan, residents were asked how they would feel about a “one-off targeted rates increase to help fund the heritage restoration capital programme,” at the Arts Centre.

The Council said the increase was generally supported, and that it had provided $5.5 million to the Arts Centre over the past three years, as well as ongoing operational financial support.

“In November 2023 the Council was briefed on the proposal from the Arts Centre for operational funding in a closed workshop. The Council asked staff to engage with the Arts Centre to identify options and provide advice to inform decision making in the 2024/34 LTP,” said the Council in a media response.

Canta was also told that another workshop on December 13 saw no subsequent councillor amendments, and that the Mayor says advice is being prepared for the Council based on current analysis by the Arts Centre Board.

But Arts Centre Creative Director Chris Archer says the Centre “can’t survive without a form of public funding.

“We know that the number of submissions in support of the Arts Centre all count. It’s kind of democracy in action,” Archer said. The Arts Centre said it had received, on average, $1.83 million per annum over the last three years from the Council.

Archer said that since approaching the Council for funding three years ago, the Centre had completed the restoration of its building –both independently and with the help of public grants, philanthropy and donations – and has recently hosted events like a weekend festival of the arts which saw 5,000 people attend.

Daylight saved, but at what cost?

Charlotte Thornton (she/her)

Daylight savings ended on Sunday April 7 at 3am, turning the clocks back one hour and returning us to New Zealand Standard Time (NZST).

Fire and Emergency New Zealand advised the public to keep an eye on their smoke alarms. “Take the time this weekend to get prepared. It’s also a great opportunity to come up with a 3-Step Escape Plan with your family and practise it,” said Community Education Manager Adrian Nacey.

Aotearoa is a part of Daylight Saving Time (DST) history. In 1895, New Zealand-based entomologist George Hudson was the first to propose a form of DST. He had become enamoured with the idea while using his free time to collect insects, and wanted more hours of daylight for the task.

DST was first officially practiced in New Zealand in 1927. About onethird of the countries in the world follow DST.

DST changes can come as a surprise, especially when sleep patterns are interrupted. In 2022, sleep specialist Dr Tony Fernando told Re:

Archer said it had also opened three new arts venues over the last couple of years.

“We’re trying to be something for everybody and proudly so. This is a place for the people of Christchurch,” he said.

“We’ve kind of been advocating with [the Council] for the last 18 months to make sure we are included in this current Draft Long Term Plan,” he said.

“The result of it is that we’re not, and that’s a big issue for us because the implications are that we are heading towards insolvency.”

Archer said that the Centre is ideally seeking the same grant they were previously given by the Council.

“After the University moved to Ilam, Norman Kirk, who was the Prime Minister at the time, kind of set [the Arts Centre] up as a gift for the people of Christchurch, and a place that would really support arts, heritage, creativity and education, and that’s what we’ve been doing ever since that time,” he said.

“Councillors have the opportunity to actually change things in the Plan according to what the public have said.”

News, “People have to get up earlier by an hour, which means that they’re waking up earlier than what their body wants.”

Actor Ryan Reynolds is passionate advocate for permanent daylight time. He has produced comedic video advertisements about the issue: one in 2022 with Back to the Future star Christopher Lloyd credited as a “time expert”, and another in March 2024 with actor David Dastmalchian for the business Titan Casket.

In the video, Dastmalchian states that DST has been linked to increases in heart attacks and fatal collisions. “If an actual casket company doesn’t think it is worth keeping around, who does? […] At Titan Casket, we obviously have an interest in you dying, but we can wait.”

Smartphones typically adjust the time automatically. Analogue clocks, humans, and other time displays may require manual correction.

Heidi Slade (she/her)

Drop Nation performing at the Arts Centre. Source: Arts Centre.

Two UC students among four killed in fatal crash

Charlotte Thornton (she/her)

Three died at the scene in a major crash on State Highway 8 on March 30, including two UC students. A fourth person later died in hospital from his injuries.

The collision involved two vehicles and a motorcycle. It was followed by another crash close by just an hour and a half later, which injured 10.

On March 31, the University of Canterbury released a statement from Vice-Chancellor Professor Cheryl de la Rey. She confirmed the deaths of the students and expressed condolences to their loved ones.

De la Rey went on to state that two other UC students had been injured in the crash and hospitalised and were in stable condition. She said that UC would be “working directly with Ōtautahi Christchurch’s Malaysian community” to provide support.

“Our thoughts are with those involved in the emergency service teams, and members of the public, who responded to the scene,” wrote de la Rey.

The New Zealand Herald reported that Bellee Cardeño, a nurse who was travelling with her family, pulled over to perform CPR.

She told the Herald, “It takes a lot of courage to be there and compose yourself to help the people covered in blood. I never really imagined myself doing CPR on someone on the road… it was just a

tragic accident,” she said.

Prime Minister of Malaysia Anwar Ibrahim also expressed condolences, via Facebook: “Condolences to the families of two Malaysian students who died in a road accident in Lake Tekapo, New Zealand. I also pray for the three more Malaysian students [from Victoria University] who were injured in this incident to be healed as soon as possible.”

The students who died were identified by New Zealand Police on April 4, as Wan Adlina Alisa, 20, and Megat Ashman Aqif Megat Irman Jefni, 21.

The other victims were ex-Army commander Phillip Wayne Woodham, 71, and Gavin James William Beere, 85.

The national road death toll for Easter was seven, the worst since 2021. In addition to the Pūkaki deaths, there were fatalities in Waikato, Te Moana-a-Toi Bay of Plenty, and Te Tai o Aorere Tasman.

Along with the name release on April 4, New Zealand Police stated: “Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.”

If you are struggling, consult the following resources: UC Student Care, UC Health Centre, UCSA Advocacy & Welfare, and Youthline –free text 234 or call 0800 37 66 33.

Update on Women’s and Girls’ rugby strategic plan in Canterbury

Heidi Slade (she/her)

The plan, published in early April last year, outlines key focuses, priorities, and principles aimed at transforming women’s and girls’ rugby at all levels of the game.

The 10-year strategy was developed over a year through consulting the rugby community, featuring 1500 hours of feedback provided by more than 2,200 people, according to New Zealand Rugby.

In 2022, when the plan was being created, it found that 3% of rugby board chairs and 5.7% of referees are female, that there is an average annual retention of 40% of players, and that 87.5% of those female players are under 18.

The plan also identified five strategy Focus Areas: culture, system, participation, performance, and transitions.

Canterbury Rugby’s Community Rugby Manager Fiona Smith said the plan is still in the early stages of being implemented in Waitaha Canterbury, but that she’s hoping to see the benefits.

“It probably gave us all really good direction on where we should focus our effort”, Smith said.

For example, Smith said the strategy identified that rugby can be “really hard” to enter later in life.

“Our model had been built on playing since you were five. We didn’t, in a lot of cases, have safe entry points for girls and women who start playing at older ages,” she continued.

“So we have looked at the way our grades are structured and made sure that at three or four points between the age of five and fifty, there [are] places that new people can come into the game.”

Furthermore, Smith said the plan clarified that women’s rugby shouldn’t aim to look exactly like men’s to be successful.

“We shouldn’t try and make it look exactly like men’s rugby, and in a few cases I think that had actually been holding the system back a bit, by trying to copy it.”

“To get together a team from scratch in a sport where you name 22 players on a Saturday is a lot of people. With 10-a-side it was achievable for more clubs to start something, and the majority of those have now grown into 15-a-side teams,” said Smith.

“So we don’t have to play the same times, the same formats, the same number of players – those kinds of things.”

While the plan only came out last year, Smith said New Zealand Rugby also produced a subsequent action plan for unions to work through.

“I think in the long term it is positive, it will just take time. Different parts of the country are at really different stages, depending on the population base, what the initial uptake in girls and women’s rugby has been like, how that’s gone for the people involved.”

“So yeah, it’s a long-term plan.”

Content warning: mentions of injury, death, earthquakes, and medical procedures.

*Names have been changed.

University life can be a drag, with plenty of bumps on the way. But those bumps might not be your typical hurdles; they might just be white powder on a key.

Ketamine: the up-and-coming recreational drug that fills the noses of many curious drug-takers. Sometimes known as horse tranquiliser, this drug has taken university culture by storm, as MDMA slowly flails behind as ketamine take first position on the recreational drug podium.

“It’s like you’ve smoked 100 cones. Everything was really funny and it felt like you were floating. Everything was simpler, nothing was very deep,” said Laura*.

Canta talked to anaesthetist Dr Anne Maxwell about the medical world in which ketamine has a place, and the recreational world it is now entering.

This anaesthetic has been used by doctors and veterinarians since the 1950s, and is now used in emergency departments to rapidly ease pain. Maxwell explains how the drug is generally used in her field for its anaesthetic purposes, especially in combination with other drugs. “We call it an induction of anaesthesia, combining ketamine with other things like morphine to make people go to sleep.”

This transition from consciousness to unconsciousness is not an uncommon use of ketamine. In 2018, it was famously used in combination with other drugs to sedate the 12 boys in Thailand who were trapped in the Tham Luang Nang Non cave system. Maxwell revealed the prominence of ketamine “in the field”, as the combination of ketamine with other drugs has been vital in order to save lives.

Amidst the devastation of the 2011 Ōtautahi Christchurch earthquake, doctors were forced to apply their skills in ways they would have never expected. A financial advisor named Brian Coker was heading out for lunch when a staircase collapsed on him, trapping his legs under rubble. Coker was one of many trapped in the fallen PCG building.

Dr Lydia Johns Putra was one of the few doctors called to the scene, working through rubble and darkness in order to reach Coker. Making their own make-shift operating theatre, Johns Putra amputated his legs with just a pocket knife and a hacksaw.

Johns Putra told The New Zealand Herald that they had an anaesthetist as part of the team, reiterating how that was “very important”.

Maxwell recalled the use of ketamine for many in the PCG building, as the drug has “really good pain-killing properties, as well as making people not remember what’s happening.”

The power of this drug, and its ability to devoid a patient of pain as well as memory, can be seen in euphoric medical experiences.

When asked how the K-hole appears in medical situations, Maxwell acknowledged the drug’s ability to form hallucinogenic and “out-of-body” experiences. Patients “look like they’re awake, but they’re not forming memories.”

Maxwell’s mind darts back to a memory of an elderly man who was having his toes amputated. After giving him ketamine as his anaesthetic, he began wailing. “He said he had been surrounded by all of his grandchildren, his mokopuna, including some that were dead, and he thought it

Elsie Williams (she/her)

was actually a really special thing.”

The hallucinogenic properties of this drug prove evident in this anecdote, as despite his physical distress, his hallucination was something positive. This experience echoes Product Design student Caleb Palmer’s journey with ketamine as an anaesthetic.

At age 13, Palmer snapped both forearm bones clean in half during a football game after going up for a header. His bones needed re-straightening before he got a cast, so the doctors injected Palmer with ketamine to relieve pain and memory from process. He “embarked on a journey” that he still remembers vividly to this day.

“I was big into Star Wars and Avatar at the time, and I started dreaming that I was flying around on a sky bison visiting all the Star Wars planets. It was bliss.” He recalled trying to force himself back into an unconscious state when he started to wake again.

Similar to Maxwell’s experience with the elderly man, Palmer’s physical presence in the room was far different to what he was dreaming.

Six months after the surgery, his father explained to him the experience he witnessed. “He recalls me screaming in pain every time the doctors wrenched on my arm, and was at the point of demanding they stop due to how horrible it was to see. They assured him it was alright, and that the ketamine had me disassociated from what was really happening.”

Maxwell explained how they do see people go down the K-hole, but they avoid it by giving them other medicines to reduce its severity. She reiterated that most people don’t remember the K-hole sensation.

Maxwell said in relation to the use of ketamine in a medical sense, “We are aiming to make people unconscious usually, and we have the skills and equipment to manage this situation. That is not the case for laypeople [non-experts] and in those situations, it could be fatal.”

So what is a K-hole and how does it differ in the recreational world?

The NZ Drug Foundation’s Deputy Executive Director, Ben Birks Ang, said that it’s where people feel disconnected from – or unable to control – their own bodies, including the ability to speak or move around easily.

Most people snort “bumps” or small lines of about 30 to 60mg, with the effect coming on within about five to 15 minutes. However, 100mg is usually enough to enter a full dissociative state, better known as the K-hole.

Maxwell said that the dose people are taking recreationally is smaller than what they would use to drift someone off to sleep, but those smaller doses are what might be used medically if someone had pain.

Many university students immersed in the drug and alcohol scene would have witnessed people fall into this state, but without the presence of medical professionals.

Birks Ang said, “Things like the K-hole state can be really distressing, not just for the person but also for the people around them.”

Victoria University student Amy* said, “My friends used to take a lot of ket. They literally couldn’t communicate with me,

you could just tell their body was working so much slower than their brain.”

The university party scene already involves a high consumption of alcohol, and with the mix of depressants such as ketamine and alcohol, the side effects can be dangerous. “The combination’s more dangerous because they have an additive effect, like stopping you breathing, losing consciousness, and so forth,” said Maxwell.

On the use of ketamine recreationally, she said, “I guess it’s like any drugs. People who don’t know what they’re doing, and that would be most people using recreational drugs, are at risk of the harms from it.”

“The drugs that people are getting recreationally are not necessarily pure. So with that combination with the likes of alcohol, people will lose consciousness really easily.”

She further commented on ketamine’s ability to sometimes make people vomit, which causes danger as “they may breathe it into their lungs and that sort of thing could be fatal.”

Ketamine holds a multifaceted role in the medical field and its recreational use requires caution and informed decisionmaking. So, while ketamine might offer some a temporary escape from reality, the allure should never eclipse the potential risks and pitfalls of the K-hole.

Stay safe, stay informed, and always prioritise your wellbeing above all.

They Know Your Stuff

Olivia Welsh (she/her)

It’s been a stressful week, and the plan is to get rowdy at a festival, or house party, but you’re a little anxious… are the drugs you’re wanting to take actually what you think they are?

There is absolutely no shame in admitting that you want to be extra prepared and informed. It makes sense. A good time is what you seek, not the fear of consuming an unknown substance that can potentially hurt you.

The stigma around drug-checking has made it difficult for people to seek out information and guidance around substance use due to fear of judgement and legal repercussions. But staying in the dark does more harm than good, and removing that outdated stigma has been a mission for many in the community. Just ask Know Your Stuff NZ.

Operating as a community organisation fronted by volunteers, Know Your Stuff is a legal drug checking programme that takes the strain out of individuals having to worry about their drugs, instead providing them with support and prevention tactics. Their programme also includes Needle Exchange, which supports people who inject drugs by making clean needles and syringes easily accessible for them.

I spoke with Know Your Stuff Regional Co-Lead Nick Shanks, and volunteers Asher Etherington and Claire Hinchy, about the process behind this fully-funded initiative, and how students can engage with Know Your Stuff.

Drug-checking is an important process in youth and student culture. Know Your Stuff helps students with the basic

experience, informing them on the legitimacy of their drugs.

There is a focus on tertiary education in particular, mainly because of the high uptake in a majority of universities throughout Aotearoa New Zealand. With the University of Canterbury Students’ Association (UCSA) promoting funding and easier access for students, there is some societal change: an acceptance that people are using substances, and there are ways to aid them.

The younger population can be inexperienced, and perhaps trying something new for the first time, or obtaining their drugs from those they’re not well-acquainted with. This can be an issue, with synthetic cathinones being mistaken for MDMA in the summer of 2021-2022.

Naturally, there is a lot of concern about overdosing on certain drugs, such as a recent fear of fentanyl entering drug supplies A common trend has been people asking what the chances are that there is fentanyl in their product, and what to do if that is the case. This makes the presence of Know Your Stuff more crucial, with them operating to help everyone, at every level, to ensure their safety no matter what.

During events such as O-Week and Electric Avenue, there is a boost in engagement. Students tend to become curious about the laws, and how to bring their drugs to and from places, with as many as 15-20 people waiting at once for the checking process.

Shanks commented on how during these events, some people arrive via word of mouth, or because they recognise

the yellow smiley face. However, much of the student body are unaware of who Know Your Stuff are, and what they do.

In order for students to feel comfortable coming to speak with Know Your Stuff, staff members and volunteers are selected for their upbeat attitudes and their knowledge on the overall process. It’s discreet, with no identifying information taken; instead, it’s a service that focuses purely on the drug-checking and the resources available.

The process involves a brief chat about what drugs the client have, if they’ve done it before, and what presumed effects can occur. In an environment that is closed-off and personal, like on campus, testing is conducted in front of the client.

However, at a festival, some people have to wait upwards of 40 minutes, so a sample card is provided. This card tracks the drug sample throughout the process. Afterwards, people are given any remaining drug back, as well as harm reduction results and information. Data is collected on whether they are still going to take the substance, and potentially the reason why.

Depending on the result, further testing may take place, and an option for the drugs to be destroyed or given back to the client.

UCSA backs Know Your Stuff through encouraging students to have discussions about their drugs. UC purchased a mass spectrometer in December 2023, which is currently on loan to UCSA for Know Your Stuff to use. This device, worth around $50,000, assesses drug purity. A media statement was released a number of weeks ago on the continuing partnership that first began in 2020.

“The UCSA does not condone drug use of any kind, but we are aware of the realities that exist. Because of this, we feel harm prevention methods are necessary. Although we have little control over the intent of use, Know Your Stuff provide a service which helps to provide education and information to reach the same objective,” commented the UCSA in regards to the service.

On-site testing has resulted in positive responses, with lots of student engagement. Since each university in Aotearoa New Zealand have different objectives and goals, there are multiple ways for substance use to be tackled.

UCSA noted, “It really comes down to what works for them and their students… the most important thing for us was to make the service more accessible.”

The purchase of the mass spectrometer is one of many harm minimisation strategies that UCSA have been focusing on. Angel Shots, the presence of Hato Hone St John at orientation events, safe walks home, and Red Frogs – a supportive programme to serve and safeguard young people – are included among them.

The aim of drug-checking is not to condone or promote the use of substances, but to ensure that people are not hurting themselves or others by taking fake or dangerous drugs when that is not their intention.

Accidental death should not be a consequence for engaging in substance use, and preventing harm is, above all else, what Know Your Stuff intends to do. The Misuse of Drugs Act 1975 (MoDA) protects students getting their drugs checked, and allows Know Your Stuff to operate legally.

Know Your Stuff is focused on embedding themselves in other areas. According to Hinchy, “it is really important for people to get their drugs checked even if they don’t think

they could be dodgy. Better to be safe, and more information is power.”

The drug-checking service workers are also available to have open, informative conversations with. “We try to be fun and relatable,” said Shanks.

Many individuals who utilise this service appear extremely appreciative to have that extra level of reassurance that their substance isn’t going to be harmful to them. During semester time at UC, Know Your Stuff are on campus once a week in Bentley’s every Wednesday, to talk to anyone about drugs, their effects, and possible interventions.

Know Your Stuff have harm reduction tactics that help make substance use more safe, and they provide these tactics judgement-free.

“There is this potentially life-saving opportunity that students have on campus that they ought to take advantage of, if they’re in need. Students should take control of their wellbeing, and their fate, and check their drugs. It’s incredibly easy, and available,” Etherington said.

For more information on the process or getting in touch, check out knowyourstuff.nz.

Prof. Ian Shaw is every Chemistry student’s favourite. He’s done TED Talks, written books, and feels more like a friend than a lecturer.

Although he admits he’s never taken drugs himself, instead getting his hit from collecting antiques and walking his dogs, this Professor knows a thing or two about illicit substances.

Disclaimer: Prof. Shaw isn’t telling us what or what not to do with drugs. But he does believe letting us know what substances do to our bodies and how they’re made will help us think about drugs in a new way, so we’re equipped to make our own substance decisions.

The case for cannabis

For stressy students with a high workload, the pain-killing effect of cannabis makes you feel lighter and less concerned with life. “It makes you feel better, so you can see why people do it. And that’s not bad!” Shaw explained.

Cannabis binds to a specific receptor in the brain and changes the way you think, your mood and your perspective, generally making you relax. “And that can be quite good!” said Shaw.

“If you have cannabis, you wouldn’t suddenly look out the window and see green pigs flying past. In fact, you wouldn’t particularly feel any different.”

But Shaw explained, “Cannabis changes the way you respond to things in a way that you don’t fully realise.”

The drug takes around 8 to 10 hours to get out of your system, much like jetlag. “It means that you might not be functioning as normal for quite some time.”

MDMA

Seemingly the fuel to every festival, Prof. Shaw describes gear as the drug that “creates happiness”.

Although MDMA is known to cause the highest serotonin kick, it comes with some downs.

“When you’re excruciatingly happy, all the chemicals in your brain bind to receptors to make you feel that way. People then feel miserable because the chemicals have gone down in concentration.”

Endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine are our own internal,

natural drugs for well-being which are produced in response to things that make you happy. MDMA is designed to increase the activity of these neurotransmitters to elevate your mood.

MDMA is a good example of a compound drug being looked at for the treatment of depression at low doses, because it lifts spirits, that might actually be helpful.

LSD

With LSD you might see flying green pigs – it’s a psychedelic that consumes and accentuates your sensory experience.

Shaw said that drugs like LSD bind to other happinessinducing receptors in the brain. “The substances used for recreational drugs have chemical structures which are very similar to our natural chemicals that bind to our receptors.”

To put it simply, drugs increase the concentration of happy chemicals. He said, “There are probably four or five receptors crucial for feeling happy, so drugs are designed to fit those.”

Mushrooms

Shaw briefly touched on magic mushrooms, which are “quite” addictive, as they bind to receptors that replicate themselves in response to the shrooms.

Mushrooms are decriminalized in certain states in the U.S. and countries like the Netherlands and Brazil.

“Like cannabis, magic mushrooms are another drug that’s being looked at for anxiety treatment. They’re even growing in my garden!” Shaw laughed.

Alcohol

Most societally accepted, alcohol is like a rite of passage within university culture. “It’s so commonly used that is difficult to imagine life without it,” said Shaw.

Alcohol has been normalised since the beginning of time. It’s woven throughout history.

We all know that there are detrimental health effects associated with alcohol. However, Shaw doesn’t necessarily think we should all stop consuming it.

“I have a glass of wine with dinner because it’s not dinner without a glass of wine. It’s a part of me enjoying myself.”

Toxicologist’s on Drugs

Point of View Drugs

Vaping

Whether you have one yourself, feign a social puff on nights out, or are mourning the recent loss of dispos, vaping is a newer but more popular habit among students.

Shaw explained an addiction to vaping in two ways. One is the nicotine fiend and the other comes from the natural production of endorphins people get from the act of vaping, whether it’s the yummy flavours or the act of smoking.

Shaw said, “We don’t know whether it is doing any harm because vaping has not been around long enough to know.”

“Compared to smoking, it’s the lesser of two evils. But the jury’s out since we don’t have much data yet.”

How

they’re made

“To make most drugs is actually quite simple,” said Shaw. Even his chemistry students would be shocked to see how easy it is. However, this means drug takers are in greater danger.

Shaw’s biggest worry is how recreational drugs are being made.

“Pharmaceuticals are manufacturing under all sorts of licenses to produce substances in the right concentration. It’s completely controlled to ensure its quality and safety.”

But the unfortunate reality is most drugs on the scene are far from quality-assured.

“You’ve most likely got some bloke making this stuff in his garden shed... he’s got a few chemicals, he mixes them together, he shakes ‘em up, and sells it.”

“It frightens me a bit,” said Shaw. “I love the younger generation… students are my life and it saddens me that some of them are doing daft things that if they knew more, they wouldn’t do.”

Shaw said that drugs all affect the brain in different ways, acknowledging that friends his age still take drugs themselves.

“I never tell people what to do, I just state the facts. When I do the lecture on drugs, I’m teaching students because it’s biochemistry, not because I’m trying to stop them from doing it.”

In different countries and cultures, different drugs are more socially acceptable and popular. In Professor Shaw’s undergrad days in the 1970s UK, LSD was the cool thing.

“There were strong social pressures that I don’t think are as bad nowadays… my mates and I wanted to be with the others but because we didn’t do drugs, it meant that you couldn’t get into the ‘hip crowd’.”

Addiction 101

Finally, Prof. Shaw talked through the science of addiction, in a way someone who can’t do science – me – can comprehend.

Addiction develops when “drugs bind to receptors… when you’ve got the receptor occupied with a substance, it stimulates the production of more receptors.”

“If you’ve got one occupied, then you produce more receptors which aren’t occupied, so you therefore crave the compound [drug] to fill those unoccupied receptors… which means you need more of the drug.”

“If you start reducing the amount of drug, you crave it like crazy because your receptors are unoccupied… making you feel unhappy because they need to be occupied.”

This Professor’s point of view is that he wants the best for us students. To enjoy ourselves and be happy. So, if you understand drugs a bit more, how they work and how they’re affecting you, you’ll be able to make better decisions to suit you and have a better time.

I’ve never been more captivated by a chemistry chat in my life.

“They’re not my students, they’re my friends.”

“They’re not my students, they’re my friends.”

Rosie Leishman (she/her)

*Names have been changed.

LSD

LSD LSD

A trip down memory lane

Maia Aramakutu (Ngāti Pāhauwera, Ngāti Porou, she/her)

LSD is a psychedelic drug which many take because it makes you hallucinate and distorts space and time. Due to the psychedelic nature of the drug, you cannot guarantee what you’ll experience upon taking it.

For this article, I interviewed two UC students: Kat*, who has taken the drug three times, and Nate*, who has taken it five times. Both individuals have had vastly different experiences while on LSD, with Kat’s experiences being mostly negative and Nate’s being mostly positive.

Kat’s history with LSD has not been great. For the most part, her trips have mostly started out fine: “Feeling a deep connection to the world, and seeing shapes and colours on wall and in trees.”

She said that after a couple of hours, “It changed, it was like the world shifted into something dark, or I become hyper aware of the bad within the world. Rather than hallucinating shapes and colours, I started to hallucinate people and voices. It made me feel extremely scared, like something bad was going to happen to me.”

She said that that feeling happened to her on all three trips, with varying levels of intensity. Kat spent most of the time hanging out outside, talking to her friend who was also tripping, looking at walls and watching music videos.

Nate’s trips, on other hand, have been positive experiences. He said that “all but one were super fun” and “everything was really cool”.

His one experience that wasn’t super fun was described as “average, not necessarily bad, but not great”. He spent most of his trips listening to music, looking at fractals, drawing, and most importantly, “sitting in the sun photosynthesising,” which he identifies as one of the best things about doing LSD.

All three of Kat’s trips happened at night. Her first two were done at a friend’s house with a large group of people – some friends, some not – who were also tripping or who were heavily intoxicated. Her third trip was done at her house with a friend who was also tripping.

Nate’s trips were done during the day, starting in the morning. All five times he has taken LSD, he has done it with the same group of close friends at one of their flats. Each time, he made sure to either have a trip sitter or an experienced person tripping with them.

LSD is an intense drug. Many cannot fall asleep well on it, as an LSD trip can last anywhere between five to fifteen hours. Therefore, when you take LSD, you are locked in for at least half a day.

Kat’s trips usually lasted from eight to 10 hours. She described this length as “intense, especially doing it at night, as you can get tired and want to sleep – but you can’t sleep it off like other substances, so you are stuck tripping until it’s over.”

Nate has done some long trips around 12+ hours. “I didn’t mind the length, because I was prepared for it.”

Kat said she didn’t do anything to prepare before she took LSD the first two times. The first time, she didn’t plan on doing LSD – she just did it. The third time, she and her friend prepared food, and let her sister and another friend know that they were doing it, just in case something happened.

To prepare, Nate made sure to buy a testing kit and tested his LSD before he took it. He also made sure he had nothing to do for the day because “having something to do and being on LSD does not mix well”.

He made sure to minimise uncomfortable situations. He did this by making sure he had everything he needed for the trip, food for example, and was tripping in a safe space. Therefore, he minimised the need to go out and interact with other people, while making sure he was safe.

I asked Kat and Nate what people should know before doing LSD. They advised to start out with a smaller dose, then work your way up, and only do it with people you are comfortable around – and have a trip sitter. They said that the comedown is often not fun, and that if you get paranoid from cannabis, LSD might also make you paranoid. Nice weather can make a trip even better.

And finally: test your LSD!

Harold the Giraffe Behind the Mask

After a hectic and sweaty Jump Jam session in the school hall, a creative writing piece on the details of your weekend, and a big fat marmite and lettuce sandwich, the time would roll around to enter the Life Education den.

There is something magical about the way a giraffe and an educator can mysteriously arrive on a truck in the middle of the night, and we’ll sit with our legs crossed and arms folded and listen intently to a puppet.

Now, we all know Harold is a pretty chill dude, but when it came to drugs – that’s when shit got serious.

The little ones learn about reading emotions and navigating resilience, but as the hormones started to increase, we were taught about cyber bullying, puberty, and many university students’ favourite recreational activity: drugs.

Life Education Trust educator Nicky Wise is one of those special people that bring magic into the classroom in a way that’s fresh, exciting, and inspiring.

“I just fell in love with the whole ethos, the philosophy, the holistic approach, just the vibe of the classroom and stars and Harold and went, ‘this is where I want to be’,” said Wise.

It’s a good feeling knowing your educator was just as obsessed with the stars as you were. Wise has worked alongside her best bud Harold for 20 years now, tackling the Waipā-King Country region one child at a time.

“He’s real, he’s safe, and he’s non-judgmental. Harold allows people to visit their creative world as he believes in them, and they can feel it straight away. Plus he’s hilarious!”

With the online world growing bigger and stronger, Wise can sense the pressure building on children walking into the classroom, proving the need for the educators to constantly adapt to the changing times.

“We’re always updating, always researching and making sure that we’ve got everything up to date.”

Harold and the educators work through the effect of drugs on the brain, the battle of peer pressure, and standing up for yourself. The growing brains of year 7s and 8s are taught about the complexities of drugs in a manner that aims to educate them about the potential risks and consequences.

Going on a “journey” together as a group, Wise takes the children through the drug chat in a way that’s visual and thought-provoking. The experience is designed to be impactful, encouraging the preteens of Aotearoa to make informed decisions if drugs make their way into their lives.

“Should the occasion occur that someone offers you a drug, what we say is to delay the decision,” Wise said.

“A lot of the time, the 11 and 12 year olds will describe a dodgy person. Then then we say, well, we’re at a music festival, what’s everyone else wearing? And they’ll work out that someone who’s selling drugs will look just like everyday people, that they aren’t strangers and that we might know them,” shared Wise.

I remember this epiphany vividly, when we all slowly prowled our eyes across the classroom thinking, “which one of you is the imposter?”

Taking children out of the classroom and away from their normal educational environment creates a somewhat euphoric experience. The lights, documentaries, the visuals, Harold – it’s all so nostalgic in a way that can’t be put into words.

The sense of safety and trust that inhabits the four walls has a massive part to play in the learning that carries on in the playground.

After covering the drugs and substances section of learning, one of Harold’s students was offered a drug on the way home from school. But as Harold taught them, they delayed their decision.

“They told the school management that they thought about doing it, and then they thought, ‘what would Nikki and Harold say?’ And it stopped them from doing it.”

Despite this example of their teachings being put into action, Wise said, “that’s not saying they all do. I mean, come on, I’m a realist. I’ve got kids.”

Apart from the loads of cards and beautiful artwork she and Harold receive, it appears that Wise most treasures the laughs, and the moments of pure excitement and vulnerability.

“We were going into space, and it was so realistic for this kid, that he just sat there, and he just screamed, ‘holy shit! holy shit!’ He was so in the moment, it was fabulous.”

“The fact that you can have some real tough nut kids, but Harold can tell them to sit and they will sit, because they’ll do anything for Harold. Just the love and the belief they have in Harold, no matter who they are or where they’re from. Yeah, it’s just amazing.”

Elsie Williams (she/her)

2024 CANTA DRUG SURVEY RESULTS

How did you get into taking drugs?

How did you get into drinking?

Do you vape?

Why do you use drugs?

Nothing better than coming home from lectures and punching a fat cone

I think in the right place at the right time it heightens the experiences you can have Escapism

To loosen up and have a good time!

Any fun stories/experiences?

because i study accounting :)

Brain shuts the FUCK up I can’t stay awake long enough at festivals/concerts without them

I got that dog in me

Bored

Scratch the itch in my brain

Medicinally

Any advice for the new, inexperienced, and curious?

Take anything with people you trust and that you know will be able to look after you. Always get it tested don’t get embarrassed when you want to try something for the first time, everyone has to start somewhere NEVER SMOKE WITH YOUR CRUSH !! Test your drugs :)

Taking acid by myself and catching the busiest train in Wellington laughing to myself like the Joker all the way. One time my flat mate and I were smoking weed in our shed (in the dark), and we didn’t notice that a cat was just sitting there. We kinda hotboxed the shed and then the cat started zooming back and forth across the yard in random zig zags.

Got so high I accidentally put my tampon in with the plastic wrapper still on it.

Once I ate a whole container of fish oil capsules when I was high on acid because I couldn’t figure out how to make any other food and I was hungry asf.

don’t feel pressured to do it!

DO NOT MIX

dont take drugs and kiss your ex it’s not as fun later

Drink lots of water and drink responsibly with friends Do your research Take it slow.

Hallucinating a crocodile and hiding under my desk until my friends killed it.

I convinced myself I could bark in 5 different languages.

Cantabury Tales

Welcome to a new column where we respond to a tale submitted by one of you and attempt to give advice. Want us to respond to your tale? Email us at editor@canta.co.nz.

Dear Canta,

I am sick and tired of being sick all the time. I just got over covid, now I think I might have freshers’ flu and I don’t think I can take being sick anymore since I am missing out on so many nights out. I feel like my first-year experience is being trampled by my crappy immune system.

How do I fix this?

Love, sickbug

Dear Sickbug,

Navigating the university immune system is like trying to dance through a minefield! First year is a stomping ground for sickness, and I promise you, you’re not the only one feeling this way. Your body’s throwing a party, but it seems like all the uninvited guests are germs.

Fear not, though; there are ways to bounce back and reclaim your party nights. Most important thing: don’t try go out whilst sick. The FOMO can be overpowering sometimes, but there will be so many more epic nights to come – that one weekend off won’t hurt ya.

Chat to your lecturers! Keep them in the loop, and if you need extra time, just communicate with them. If they’re a good sort, they’ll allow that extension.

Go to the doc! Medical advice is always helpful, and thanks to UC Health, it’s pretty cheap to get checked out. If you’re continually sick for a long period of time, something is probably really wrong. Buy some of those stank ass Vitamin C sachets. They genuinely taste like ear waxi but they’re incredibly good for you. Get some fresh air! Walks, bike rides, open ya window.

And remember, it’s okay to take a break from the party scene if you’re feeling under the weather. Your health is the real VIP here! Plus, there will be plenty more epic nights out once you’re back in action sickbug.

Sending you love, hugs, and resilience. Love, Canta xx

Favourite thing out of the vending machine?

When it comes to sleep... you’re a

If you get BEER PONG

You’re big on teamwork, but like to coast if you get the chance. Always looking for snacks, and scared of the dark, you probably resonate with Shaggy from Scooby-Doo more than anyone else. You’re a big dog person then.

What drinking game are you? What drinking game are you?

Eating sushi

What is your go-to genre?

What are you doing with $100?

If you get KING’S CUP

Would you look at that? Nothing seems to gross you out. You’re competitive as heck, both in your studies and at life, and are the perfect mix of mature and childish, finding potty humour hilarious so long as you’re the one making the jokes.

Have you tidied your room today?

If you get DRUNK JENGA

Like Lizzie McGuire, you’re an outfit repeater, but that’s just because your wardrobe is packed with clothing you’re never going to wear. You’re always tired, but somehow manage to recharge your social battery in time to hang out with friends.

In a game of truth or dare, you would pick...

If you get FLIP CUP

Structure and rule-following is where you soar. You probably have a LinkedIn account that you update regularly, and are tempted to attend Armageddon each year. But for some reason, you always have other plans.

If you get NEVER HAVE I EVER

Your style of flirting is mildly mean banter, and it works like a charm. The life of every party, and a secret hopeless romantic, you offer the best advice to friends and strangers alike. So why can’t you take your own advice then?

With a fork With chopsticks

THE HIGHEST HAROLD IN TOWN

*Names have been changed.

Nicotine, like alcohol, is a drug that’s been normalised in our society. And let’s be honest: we all know multiple people who’ve tried it, whether it’s consumed through patches, gum, vapes, or cigarettes. Nicotine is not only extremely popular, but is ingrained into student life.

In the past, the most popular way to consume nicotine has been through smoking. However, smoking has dropped to an all-time low amongst young adults aged between 18-24 – at 3%, according to Smokefree New Zealand.

The reason behind the drop in numbers of young adults who smoke is because vaping has taken the place of smoking in most aspects. In my personal life, I only know three people who have not tried vaping at least once.

Although there are no up-to-date statistics on the vaping numbers amongst young adults aged between 18-24, the Ministry of Health has identified a 5% increase in vaping between 2019/20 to 2021/22, and in 2021/22 they identified that 22.6% of young adults vape.

Although vaping numbers are high, there are still students who don’t follow the trend. There are still students who smoke and prefer cigarettes over vapes. There are also students who are not into nicotine at all.

I’d like to explore these different preferences, for an epic showdown of Vaping vs. Smoking vs. Breathing Air.

So why vaping?

A UC student named Jack*, who is a daily vaper, said he chooses to vape over smoking for multiple reasons. One reason being that “smoking hurts my chest where vaping doesn’t.”

He also noted that “vaping tastes a lot nicer”. This is because vape juice comes in all different flavours ranging from peach ice to menthol.

Jack identified one of his main reasons for vaping as “being less expensive than smoking”. This is because vaping requires you to buy a single vape that can cost as low as $20. Then all you must do is buy a $15 juice which can last for a month, and a $14 pod replacement every now and again.

Josh finds this more affordable than buying a pack of cigarettes every time you want a nicotine fix.

When asked about the health implications of vaping, Jack replied that he “doesn’t really care”, and he thinks that vaping is “probably better for you than smoking.”

However, this opinion is not held by every vaper. UC student Zoe*, who is a casual vaper, said that she thinks “vaping will cause lots of young people serious health concerns in the future”.

But this doesn’t stop her from vaping. Zoe said she does it “because it is more accessible than smoking,” and added: “I like the headrush, especially when I’m drunk.”

As for smoking: the reason why people prefer it directly conflicts with the reasons people prefer vaping.

A UC student named Max* prefers smoking. “We are fully aware of the effects of smoking cigarettes, whereas we know very little about vaping and it scares me.”

Max also identified that “it’s a lot easier to get away with vaping inside and in communal spaces, which only enables the addiction further. At least you have to go outside to smoke a ciggy and there a whole lot of admin associated.”

This conflicts with the preference for vaping. In Max’s case, he would rather know what he’s putting into his body and how it will affect his lungs, than inhaling random chemicals and seeing what happens in the future.

And finally, the argument for breathing air – as although nicotine is highly popular amongst students, not everyone has tried it or even feels the need to try it.

UC student Oliver*, who has never consumed nicotine in his life, said it is because “smoking and vaping are lame, especially vaping”.

He said that his main reason for not doing either is that “they are bad for you… I would rather not put chemicals into my lungs. With smoking, we know that it can cause life-long effects to your lungs, and vaping is inhaling artificial chemicals.”

“Just because we don’t know the effects of vaping doesn’t mean we should act like they are good. Also they have found lead in some vapes, so no thanks,” said Oliver.

Another UC student who has never vaped or smoked, Josh*, said he believes that “people only consume nicotine for a buzz. However you can get that from drinking caffeine, which is better, as it is healthier and less addictive.”

“Vaping and smoking are lame, and I don’t want to ruin my lungs for a buzz,” he said.

This seems to be the consensus on why people choose to not vape or smoke: they feel it is healthier.

So those are the different perspectives – I’m going to leave it up to you to decide who won.

Maia Aramakutu (Ngāti Pāhauwera, Ngāti Porou, she/her)

P r e s P r e s The Best Part of the Night

I know I’m not alone in saying that most of the time, pres are better than the party.

Getting ready, listening to your music, sitting around with your closest mates and playing drinking games in the lead-up to a host is like the not-so-calm before the probably-underwhelming storm.

Pre-drinks are the same as Christmas or New Year’s Eve: the lead-up is lowkey better than the actual day.

And I can’t deny that I’m a convicted culprit of getting too comfy at pre-drinks, reluctantly arriving to the destined event late.

So, why is it that pre-drinks are more fun?

For Jessica Tavendale, 20, “The environment just hits different.”

“It’s all about the people you’re with, being in a place where someone’s playing good music.”

The third-year UC student loves a good lead-up to an event with the girls.

“There’s nothing like being with people who hype you up. You’re with your girlfriends, we’ve had our days at uni, and there’s that special time where you’re having a shower bevvy, you’re doing makeup all together, and talking gossip.”

The reason people even have pre-drinks is to enjoy being around your closest people before the slight admin of going out into the cold Ōtautahi Christchurch chill to stand around with more people you don’t know so well.

Don’t get me wrong, parties are fun too. Pre-drinks only happen if there is a party to pre for.

But with good music and drinking games around the dining table, everyone starts feeling tipsy together – it’s like the designated time of the week set aside for quality friendship bonding.

“It’s just indescribable, so much fun,” said Tavendale. “Then next thing you know, it’s 10.30 and you’re getting calls like ‘hurry up!’ and

you don’t want to leave but you have to, it’s so sad.”

Tavendale shared, “[A]t pres, you just trust and enjoy the process, you know you’re gonna have a good time, whereas at the party, you never really know what’s gonna happen.”

Izzy Logie, 20, summed it up well: “You’re with your people, the ones that you always have a good time with no matter what.”

As well having a bev, getting ready, hyping each other up, and anticipating the night ahead, “most importantly, at pres you start to relax and let go of all the stressors going on. That in itself is a feeling that tops it all,” said Logie.

Kaylee Macormack agreed, saying it’s the time of the week to “have a proper catch-up for you to get completely sloshed – together.”

The Oxford Dictionary’s definition of ‘pre-drinking’ is “drink[ing] alcohol, especially in large quantities, before going out socially.”

“Large quantities” means many people don’t make it past the pres, after one too many funnels – the warmth of their bed a mere 10 steps away is far too inviting.

Pre-drinking is more cost-effective and efficient, as you can go to the event with enough in your system to not need to buy or bring anything else.

Research on young adults’ drinking behaviour shows that despite their knowledge about the negative consequences of excessive drinking, students still drink to be sociable and feel good.

According to a 2022 article in the journal PLOS ONE, “Studies suggest that drinkers tend to drink almost twice as much on pre-drinking evenings compared to other drinking evenings… and usually drink more often and in greater quantities per occasion, compared to nonpre-drinkers.”

This could also be because of games like King’s Cup, Stack Cup, Ks & As, and Beer Pong, which are an efficient way to drink far too much while having a giggle with your mates before your next venture.

Pre-drinks also extend the duration of a good evening out, filling in time when it’s too early to leave but after you’ve already written off the rest of your day.

Pre-drinks don’t always have to be about getting the drunkest, but about being around those you care about most before having to try a bit harder to socialise at the actual event.

And if you get a bit too cosy at pres, don’t feel guilty for ending the night there, because you probably made it to the best part.

At the end of the day, we go out to have fun. With your close mates around, games, music and top-tier, stress-free vibes – what more could you want for your evening out than a quality pre-game?

If you think pre-drinks are better than the party, don’t worry, you’re not the only one.

Pre-drinks are a beloved tradition. Source: Rosie Leishman.

Rosie Leishman (she/her)

L U B C O R N E R

ChemSoc

Tell us a bit about ChemSoc!

We are the Chemistry society of UC, a club committed to bringing chemistry students together as a community through social activities, academic support, and connections with the department. Our club is a place for students to relax and mingle which is a great contrast between the brutality of chemistry degrees. At the moment we are going through a rebuild and are super excited to expand.

Promote your club to newbie, how would you sell it?

Last minute tutor sessions to help you pass your exams with flying colours! Free snags at our BBQs to full your bellies! Beerlympics, a competitive event amongst the science clubs at UC! What more could you want from a club?

What are some events and activities you have planned for this year?

This year, we have so far dominated the Beerlympics, run barbeques, and study sessions. Later in the year we are continuing our study sessions and barbecues with a fun balance between studying and socialising which is incredibly important for the students. Additionally, we are organising a careers panel session and a quiz night. There is also talk of a party bus at the end of the year.

How can people get involved?

Follow us on Instagram @ ucchemsoc and Facebook @ chemsoccanterbury. To sign up, fill out our sign-up form which can be found in our Instagram bio!

ChemSoc ChemSoc

Flat Famous Flat Famous

Nickname: Dad

Worst Habit:

Pissing in the sink

Favourite Flat Meal: Mac and Cheese

Nickname: Holmesy

Worst Habit: Lack of university

Favourite Flat Meal: A4 snackbox

Nickname: leukaemia

Worst Habit: Teaching people how to play pool

Favourite Flat Meal: Sushi

Nickname: Jobless bum

Worst Habit: Not going to work

Favourite Flat Meal: Bolognaise

Nickname: Mr gae

Worst Habit: Ketamine

Favourite Flat Meal: Horse Tranquilliser

Nickname: Gouwclatt

Worst Habit: Showering as we need to leave

Favourite Flat Meal: Baked beans and pickle in wrap

Nickname: Fat neek

Worst Habit: Collecting dirty dishes in my room

Favourite Flat Meal: Chicken burgers

Kaleb Reuben

Ollie Sean

Luke Pascal Noah

GCs of the Week

Introducing the newest column in Canta, GC of the Week – written by The GC in collaboration with Canta. Here, the GC celebrates everything, featuring individuals who’ve not only managed to be hilariously funny in their day-to-day lives but have also spread a positive impact throughout university.

Nominations

Meet Luciabelle. After a huge morning of good behaviour on the clean streets of Dunedin, she came upon an elderly couple looking to cross a busy street. Being the kind and intoxicated person she was, she immediately offered to assist this couple in crossing, but upon closer inspection the couple was no more than 45 years old. Fortunately, the pair laughed and promptly responded with the same offer in return, as she was “very drunk”. Regardless of the misread scenario, sometimes it is the thought that matters. Keep up the good effort, Luciabelle.

Anonymous

After a sexually frustrating Saturday night and a dusty Sunday morning, what better way to unwind than with a soothing afternoon massage on K Road. Nearing the end of a lovely massage, it was time to discover if the rumours were true, hoping he would be leaving a very “happy” man. With an 80-dollar “tip” and two and a half minutes later, our GC was off, giving us a reminder to always support small and local businesses and to always compliment excellent service. This GC requested to remain anonymous.

GC of the Week

Tripped and eaten shit in front of your crush? Spilt a raspberry cruiser all over your fresh white top? Even just been way to juiced at pres? Sometimes we need to get away from the party. Thankfully, our next GC is the man to call; coming in at 5 feet 5 and 170 kilograms, he conducted five sober driving pickups in a single week. Although it is unclear whether his pick-ups were motivated by generosity or just to show off his Hilux, he was always there for his mates in times of need.

Mr. Vice President

In his motorbike debut, Mr. Vice President’s overconfidence propelled him into a reckless race against a friend. Ignoring caution, he accelerated down the road, the thrill of competition blinding him to the risks.

As the speedometer climbed, he pushed harder, until the front wheels locked, hurling him towards the unforgiving pavement. With a deafening crash, reality shattered his bravado.

Bruised and humbled, Mr. Vice President rose from the wreckage, the taste of defeat mingling with the sting of embarrassment. It was a sobering lesson in the perils of unchecked ambition.

From that day forward, he approached challenges with tempered confidence, mindful of the fine line between daring and recklessness. And as he dusted himself off, Mr. Vice President vowed to navigate the corridors of power with humility, knowing that even the highest positions demand respect for the journey.

Luciabelle

Luke

CANTA

Rosie Leishman (she/her)

Could the Crusaders win Super Rugby Pacific?

The Crusaders haven’t had their finest season. The team has a onewin, five-loss record after breaking their 2024 losing streak in a 37-26 win against the Chiefs.

Rugby legend Sir John Kirwan believes the Crusaders have no chance of winning the Super Rugby Pacific in 2024. On Sky Sports’ The Breakdown, Kirwan said, “Can they rebuild and have a great season and make the playoffs? Of course they can… but I don’t think they’re good enough [to win].”

However, the public seems to disagree with Kirwan. In a Stuff poll on April 4, 51% of voters believed the Crusaders “showed enough against the Chiefs and have a great run-in to the quarterfinals”. The other 49% voted for “too many question marks… they don’t have the depth to win the title.”

The Crusaders sit outside the top eight positions, in a 12-team competition, but making the quarterfinals isn’t impossible. The team is on a high from their neck-and-neck win against the Chiefs, so the question is whether that boost will be enough to motivate them against the Aussies.

Despite their shocker start to the season, the Crusaders obviously have the loyal support of their fans backing them.

They play the Waratahs, then Force, before facing the Rebels and Reds, the Highlanders and Brumbies and finishing their regular season on Kiwi soil against the Blues and Moana Pasifika.

TVNZ’s free-to-air sport

The MMA competition Professional Fighters League will feature on TVNZ+ all year round.

Robinson said, “Off the back of our incredible audience for sport over summer, we’re excited to back it up with more local and international sports and events across our free-to-air platforms.”

Whitelock retires from ABs

All Blacks legend Sam Whitelock is retiring from professional rugby.

The New Zealand Herald reported that ABs coach Scott Robertson approached Whitelock, 35, about returning to Aotearoa New Zealand and resuming his All Blacks career, but Whitelock would like to focus on other priorities. He said, “It’s time to finish the playing chapter of rugby.”

“It’s not a decision that we have come to lightly, but it’s the right thing for myself and it’s the right thing for my wife and our three kids,” Whitelock continued.

After kicking off his rugby career in Waitaha Canterbury in 2008, Whitelock is the most-capped All Black in history. He was the youngest All Black to reach 100 Tests.

His final appearance for the All Blacks was a third World Cup final, a 12-11 loss to South Africa in Paris.

New Zealand Rugby Chief Executive Mark Robinson said, “Sam has been one of the most influential players of his generation.”

Whitelock will conclude his professional career at the end of his current club season in France, where he’s playing for Pau. “I think that is what excites me the most – spending more time with my kids and my wife, and actually watching them play sport.”

Robertson said, “Sam is an immortal of our incredible game… Sam’s impact has been immense both mentally and physically over four World Cup cycles.”

Dame Noeline Taurua reappointed as Silver Ferns head coach

Netball New Zealand has announced that Dame Noeline Taurua, 56, will be returning as the Silver Ferns head coach for another two years.

In February 2024, Netball NZ opened applications for the coaching job as Taurua’s contract came to an end after some recent disappointing results. Despite being ranked second in the world, the Ferns had their worst-ever World Cup finish last year, placing fourth in South Africa.

“To be honest, I wasn’t too sure if I had anything else to offer,” she admitted.

TVNZ has announced its latest batch of free-to-air sports coverage.

“It’s year-round entertainment that appeals to a younger audience,” said TVNZ’s General Manager for Sport and Events Melodie Robinson.

One of the featured programmes is ANZ Premiership Netball, which includes 15 weeks of Saturday afternoon round-robin matches broadcast live on TVNZ 2 and TVNZ+. This coverage will kick off on April 13 between the Mystics and the Magic.

TVNZ+ and Duke are set to broadcast the two Football Ferns matches against Thailand.

TVNZ and Hockey NZ have entered into a multi-year partnership, bringing live games to TVNZ+. The lineup will include matches from both the Black Sticks men’s and women’s teams, beginning with the upcoming women’s match against Japan. New Zealand’s domestic Premier Hockey League will also be broadcast in November.

The UEFA Euro 2024 football tournament will also be broadcast for free on TVNZ, with TVNZ+ airing all 51 matches. Duke is scheduled to showcase 12 matches, including the tournament’s opening match between Germany and Scotland on June 15.

But the process got Taurua to reevaluate her role and she is now excited for what’s ahead. “I have competed for the job. I have reset the dial. I am rejuvenated and can’t wait to build upon the current foundation towards an era of Silver Ferns excellence,” said Taurua.

Taurua has been Silver Ferns’ head coach since 2018, finding success with a remarkable Netball World Cup title in 2019 and a Constellation Cup series victory in 2021.

Netball NZ Chief Executive Jennie Wyllie is confident in the decision. “Dame Noeline has shown that she is the right person for the Silver Ferns job… she has a genuine passion for our players, along with the ability and desire to both evolve as a coach, and add something significant to the Silver Ferns legacy.”

Former Silver Fern Marg Foster said, “As a coach she’s got the X factor and there’s not many coaches in the world that have what she’s got.”

*Names have been changed.

Under the Influence

of our Favourite TV Shows

Substance use is all around us. It’s a box of RTDs in the corner of a flat warming. It’s the green apple vape escaping your friend’s lips, and the little pills hidden in your closet. There is no doubting its impact, which is made more prevalent through the themes of drinking and drug use in our favourite television shows and movies.

Euphoria is a bit of a household name, even if it’s not a priority watch for all. Premiering in 2019, Euphoria is regarded as excruciatingly heavy, and never seems to stray too far from worldwide conversations about substance use in a youth setting.

“Euphoria makes it seem so romantic and cool, like everyone around you is doing it,” commented Diana Reed*, 18, in regards to drinking and drug use throughout the show’s two seasons.

33% of respondents said that Rue, portrayed by Zendaya, is a character who stood out to them. “Watching her go back to drugs after every chance not to feels very raw,” said one respondent.

The words most associated with this show were “intense”, “triggering”, “glorified”, and “painfully real”. In total, 68.2% of respondents aged between 15 to 31 indicated that they’d seen at least part of the teen drama.

Drinking appears to have a less extreme impact on screen than the likes of smoking or drugs, perhaps due to its normalisation in reality. The Conversation, a leading academic platform, has an entire article on how social acceptance of alcohol allows us to ignore its harms and to further engage with drinking culture.

In television and movies, depictions of alcohol are common. Whether it be of the underage variety, as in Riverdale, or in social settings, as in Friends – it is there. Heavy drinking can be seen in Shameless, a show centred on a dysfunctional family life.

Some movies mentioned in the survey depicting substance use include The Hangover, The Wolf of Wall Street, The Girl on the Train, Saltburn, Beautiful Boy, and Requiem for a Dream. The latter appears to have a significant impact.

“I found that Requiem for a Dream displays the horrors of drug use in a very powerful and traumatic fashion, but The Hangover shows it in a much lighter and comedic fashion,” commented Betty Sanchez*, 22.

She went on to state that “Requiem for a Dream and

Trainspotting showed a side of substance use [she’d] never seen before, and they unflinchingly portrayed how addiction starts and where it can lead.”

Movies, and their dramatic themes, can also provide an insight into the human experiences of characters. “Many of these movies are some of my favourites of all time. Films like Beautiful Boy, The Spectacular Now, Ben is Back, and Candy humanised addiction for me and gave me such empathy for those addicted, as well as the families impacted by addiction,” said Sally Richards*, 31.

Not all impacts are inherently “negative”, although it does seem that it differs among substances and experiences.

“I think seeing alcoholism and the abuse of drugs in these television shows opened my eyes to the possible consequences of substances. I watched Shameless in undergrad, as well as Breaking Bad, and I’d never viewed drug use or alcohol abuse in that way before,” said Richards.

There is no shortage of news coverage about the dangers of seeing addiction on the screen, and the social vulnerabilities around substance use. But there is also an aspect to media presenting this to the public which cannot be ignored: the raw reality of enlightenment, and educating viewers on the causes and consequences.

“I mostly have positive feelings on this subject… I think this material does a good job of humanising an issue that far too often is demonised and condemned,” said Richards, expanding on her past comments.

Depending on the individual, and how they associate themselves with the themes of media, the impressions left might not be so drastic.

“Film doesn’t really impact my thoughts [or] views and I purely just watch for entertainment, and never really think deeply about it,” commented Sam Hill*, 20.

There are discussions around if the media is actually capturing the realities of substance use, or if they are encouraging viewers through fan-favourite characters and romanticised plots.

Like everything, it’s incredibly nuanced, and cannot be resolved with a simple yes or no. The responses I received from this survey only solidifies that the impacts differ from person to person.

Olivia Welsh (she/her)

Canta Commentary

RTDs

Maia Aramakutu (Ngāti Pāhauwera, Ngāti Porou, she/her)

Smirnoff Soda

Lime & Lemon

This drink surprised me in the best way possible. The overall flavour is refreshing and light. The lime and lemon flavours are subtle, and pair nicely with the Smirnoff. They didn’t taste too artificial – rather, it tasted natural, like they used actual lime and lemon juice to flavour the RTD.

Usually, Smirnoff vodka has a strong flavour and a not-so-nice aftertaste, but the Smirnoff they used in this RTD has a subtle and pleasant flavour which gave no gross aftertaste.

When I had this drink, I honestly felt as though I was drinking a lime and lemon flavoured sparkling water, and not an RTD. Which is why I loved it.

Kirin Hyoketsu

Lemon Vodka Soda

Odd Company

Mango, Lime & Vodka

You know when a drink prides itself on being healthy? Well, Odd Company drinks fit that mould, with the box letting everyone know it’s low sugar and 36 calories per 100ml – which is good if you’re looking for that, but bad if you want a drink with a nice flavour.

This drink tasted horrible. It tasted like the mango and the lime used came straight from the dirt – without being washed. Although this drink does have one good quality: the vodka has a pleasant taste that’s not too strong. Which means that if you can get past the interesting flavour, this drink should go down nicely.

I would recommend taking a box of these to pres, or a party where you don’t want to get too intoxicated, as you’re probably going to struggle to drink them.

These RTDs have grown in popularity recently, as they taste nice. When I first tried these, I loved the lemon flavour, as it was subtle and not overpowering. I also loved the vodka that they used, as it wasn’t too strong and worked nicely with the lemon.

However, the issue with these is that you need to drink it cold or the taste will drastically change. I had a room temperature one for this review and it was nasty. The alcohol flavour was extremely overbearing, and it left a weird aftertaste I honestly can’t describe.

The price point for a pack of 10 of these is $31.99, which is higher than some of the other RTDs on this list, but they are also 6% which is a high percentage of alcohol. Therefore, it is worth it.

Long White

Long Whites never disappoint, especially the lemon and lime flavour. The drink overall is light and refreshing, as advertised. Although not too intense, the lemon and lime flavours overpower the taste of vodka.

The vodka has been distilled nicely and goes down smoothly. The lime and lemon flavours are strong, but not too strong. It tastes like something along the lines of a Lift or a Deep Spring. The drink is the perfect amount of sweetness that compliments the citrus flavours.

To sum it up, I love this drink and would highly recommend trying it if you haven’t.

Pals

Vodka, Lime & Soda

I honestly wasn’t a huge fan of this drink. It tasted like water mixed with vodka with a lime wedge in it, and no, I do not mean the juice of a lime. I mean it tastes like one of those fancy waters that just have a decorative lime wedge in them.

This is due to the lime flavour being basically non-existent, with the little flavour tasting more like the zest than the juice of a lime. This drink could also trick you into thinking you are drinking water, because, well, it tastes primarily of water.

If you’re into that, this would be for you. But personally, if I’m drinking a soda, I want it to taste like soda. I also find the vodka flavour to be overpowering, which leaves a strong aftertaste. To put it simply, this drink does not go down easy.

Vodka Lemon & Lime

Dipper One

LUCKY

Each issue we set up two birds who are looking for love on a blind-date and then tell them to write about it.

Here are the unedited results of Canta’s chosen love birds for this issue.

If you want some free Rollickin’ and the potential to meet the love of your life, apply at canta.co.nz/lucky-dip

After months of complaining to my sister about my questionable taste and failed dates, she decided to take my love life into her own hands. How? By pressuring me into going on a Lucky Dip date.

So there I was on Friday afternoon getting ready for my date. I planned my outfit and had a quick scroll on TikTok. My fyp was full of astrology girlies. They all informed me that it is Mercury retrograde and a terrible time to start new relationships. With that positive thought in my head, it was time to meet the potential love of my life. Or at the very least score a free ice cream.

After catching the bus to Rollickin I walked around the block twice to ensure I was a fashionable three minutes late. On arrival, I was brought upstairs to meet my date. I was instantly relieved to discover he wasn’t a fresher (cheers Canta) but a fourth-year.

After we got our ice creams he initiated a quick-fire integration. Degrees, hobbies, etc. When I asked what his degree was his response was “guess,” meaning only one thing. An engineer. A disappointing and unoriginal degree but what can you expect from a UC boy? After double-checking he didn’t do civil engineering I was willing to look past it.

My date was super easy to talk to. We discovered we

had a long list of mutuals and bonded over both being from Wellington. We talked about sporting injuries, festivals and future travel plans. I was surprised to find out my date doesn’t just do boring engineering stuff like math. Allegedly he’s quite a good skier. A hobby I am trying to get into myself. This led us to the topic of the infamous Cussc party buses and how we’re both non-practising members of Fishsoc.

However, it was when he told me about jumping the fence at Parrot Dog to see the band Daffodils perform that he really won my heart. I appreciated his good taste in music.

After a solid two hours of talking it was time to move on. He offered to drive me home and we exchanged snaps.

Debriefing with my flatmates and sister, they all concluded this boy was a bit of a cutie and a hundred times better than my previous string of situationships. Maybe the Canta cupids are on to something.

Overall the date exceeded my expectations. The chat was good, jokes were cracked and my date was a gc. Hopefully, I’ll see him on the slopes at Temple Basin <3

Thank you Canta xxx

LUCKY DIP

Dipper Two

After the underwhelming Lucky Dip date my flatmate went on, I decided it would be a great idea to sign up myself. To my surprise, I somehow got accepted and when I realised that meant I actually had to go on the date what was a great idea suddenly seemed less great. When the time came, I swallowed my nerves and made the trip over to Rollickin. Only when I got there the people at the counter had no idea the Lucky Dip was meant to be that day. Confused and slightly concerned that someone was playing a prank on me I double checked my emails and headed upstairs still not 100% certain I had the right day or time. A couple of minutes later and thankfully my date arrived, the free food was a certainty.

We got to talking (I tried to get through the typical boring degree and hobbies questions as rapid fire as possible). Although, after finding out that we were from the same city, knew a few people in common and had probably met before at CUSSC or CUBA events the conversation flowed smoothly. I found her degree interesting especially how she talked about wanting to work teaching children and spent a lot of time working at daycare centres. It was a stark contrast for her most likely, being put on a date with an Engineer ready to sell his soul the second he graduates.

From the seemingly endless stories about her fatal injuries coming back from town or scars unknowingly

appearing after big nights at festivals there was no shortage of entertaining things to talk about. She is one of those CUSSC members who doesn’t ski or board (just there for the bus party). As a regular attendee of every Pong Soc event and flat crawl there was no shortage of interesting stories she had. My personal favourite was how she never needs to buy gear, because if you look on the ground at festivals there’s plenty for the taking. Although there are free testing stations available, why use them when you’ve got two perfectly good nostrils.

The date came to a close when we realised we’d been sitting there for far too long and should probably get on with our individual evening plans. She was lovely to chat to and I had a nice time, but the fact that she attended Vic Uni for a year before coming down here was a bit of a red flag. If I ended up fumbling the bag, I’m sure she would pick it up off the floor and snort that shit anyways.

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COCKTAIL CRACKED SCRUMPY

Congratulations for making it through to term two. It was a tough one, but you made it. Time to buy a planner to make sure we make it to all of our lectures this time around.

Why are you such a push-over? Be less of one and do better. Starting from now, though, because you need to listen to me first. Now you can stop.

Stop it, why are we already panicking? Put all of your energy into calming down instead of stressing out. You always nail it because you put the effort in! But please don’t put so much pressure on yourself.

Take time for yourself and stop prioritising others over your mental sanity. For real, you need to start looking after #1 –that’s you. Put your phone on Do Not Disturb. You’ll thank me later.

Capricorn

You are doing everything right and you know it. Just be patient because I can feel the rewards will be coming your way very soon! Good luck – I hope it is in the form of cold hard cash.

Time for a new you! And by a new you, I mean an applied you. Apply yourself to your university work and start the new term off strong. I know you have it in you. Go on now, flourish.

How is my little burnt out Scorpio doing? Not well? Super tired? Yeah, no surprises there. Let’s set goals that are actually achievable instead of aiming for the moon.

Take responsibility for your own happiness! Don’t wait for others to please you. You need to remember that you are your own person, and only you are responsible for yourself.

You are giving strong mental mindset this month – yay! I know it’s been a rough year, but I can really feel that you have a grip on things now. Whether that is physically or emotionally is up to you.

This is the month of change for you! Try something new, do something old that brought you joy. It doesn’t have to be extravagant, as long as it helps you keep a clear head – it’s worth it!

Aquarius

Focus on your work, communication, and your listening skills. We know you are the smartest in the room, but maybe hear someone else out for a change? You could learn something new!

You’re looking a little lost there, my friend. Are you finding that university is sucking the life out of you? Try and balance university and social life a bit better – but don’t forget to sleep!

Virgo

Libra

Scorpio

Sagittarius

Meet The Team!

Managing Editor editor@canta.co.nz

Nikki Clarke Digital Editor digital@canta.co.nz

Print Editor print@canta.co.nz

News Editor news@canta.co.nz

Designer design@canta.co.nz

Hariklia Nicola Charlotte Thornton Madilin Macpherson

Heidi Slade

Rosie Leishman Feature Writer

Elsie Williams Feature Writer

Olivia Welsh Feature Writer

Maia Aramakutu Feature Writer

Tessa Birch Video Editor

Ella Paterson Audio Editor

Sophie Kensington Video & Digital Assistant

Choose Canta. Choose a job. Choose a career. Choose a family. Choose a fucking big television, choose washing machines, Canta, compact disc players and electrical tin openers. Choose good health, low cholesterol, and dental insurance. Choose fixed interest mortgage repayments. Choose a starter Canta. Choose your friends. Choose leisurewear and matching luggage. Choose a three-piece Canta on hire purchase in a range of fucking fabrics. Choose Canta and wondering who the fuck you are on a sunday morning. Choose sitting on that couch reading mind-numbing, spirit-crushing Canta’s, stuffing fucking junk food into your mouth. Choose rotting away at the end of it all, pishing your last in a miserable home, nothing more than an embarrassment to the selfish, fucked up brats you spawned to replace yourself.