RAM 2026 Issue #7

ISSUE 07.

HEPETEMA 2026

YOUR LINCOLN UNI STUDENT MAHENI

2

RAM ISSUE 07 / HEPETEMA 2026

Wed 7 Oct, 1.30pm

Grounded

Nominations Close: Wed 23rd Sept

Nomina te He re

lusa.nz

LUSA's Best is an opportunity for LUSA to celebrate you and the great things you do for us!

So, if you're a Course Rep, Club Member, contributed to RAM or have just been an all-round good person, you're eligible to be nominated!

All nominees and recipients will be invited to join us for an awards ceremony with free food provided.

studentsatlincoln

3

IHIRANGI 8 Your PG Academic & Secretary Spotlights 10 Te Wiki o te Reo Māori (Māori Language Week) 2026 14 LU Mental Health Awareness Week 18 Let’s Get Politial (Issue 4) 20 International Presidency at LUSA (A Response) 22 Sinking Your Teeth Into Your Rights 26 PG Life: Surviving, Thriving, & Eating Noodles 28 Garden Party 2026: The Line Up 33 STI’s & Contraception 34 Kōrero Whetūao Get rewarded when you contribute to the RAM!

Articles:

Letters to the Ed:

Opinion Column:

Done some cool shit? We wanna hear it!

Spin a yarn, we love hearing what you’ve got to say.

Share your opinion about literally anything!

To submit a piece email comms@lusa.org.nz

Visit

THERAM.ORG.NZ

Read current issue online and contribute lusa.nz lusa.nz studentsatlincoln

theram.org.nz

44

RAM RAM ISSUE ISSUE07 07/ /HEPETEMA HEPETEMA2026 2026

Zara Weissenstein President

Kia ora koutou and welcome back to campus for term 4! We’ve run most of the race, and now we’re in the home stretch leading up to the end of the year and, of course, Garden Party! LUSA is so excited to bring you an awesome lineup for our most anticipated annual event, and we can’t wait to see you all there! But until then, we have a lot going on on campus to keep you all busy and involved, starting with LUSA Elections for the 2027 executive! Being on the exec is such an incredible experience; you get to work with a fantastic team (two teams if you include the staff), learn lots of new skills that you can add to your CV at the end, and meet so many people from all sorts of backgrounds, all while having tons of fun along the way. Some challenges to being on the exec are balancing your uni life, LUSA life, and personal life.

Of course uni will always come first; you are first and foremost a student. However, between classes, research, and meetings with your supervisor, you’ll also have various LUSA meetings to balance. You work with a really supportive team, though, that is rooting for you to succeed, so don’t feel like you’ll be in it alone!

A fun fact about LUSA is that the first recorded official student representation at Lincoln University started in 1880, and the first woman was elected into an executive position in 1970!

Something really cool about the President role is that you get to learn and practice skills such as managerial skills, governance skills, and cultural skills, some of which you likely wouldn’t learn in a normal workplace until you’re

LUSA 2026 EXEC like 30 or 40 or something!

So if you’re interested in a particular role, hop on the LUSA website and then follow represent - LUSA Exec 2026 - scroll down to the bottom of the page, and this is where you’ll find the position descriptions for all the roles for next year! There are lots of different roles depending on what part of the student experience you want to focus on, so have a look and see what you might like to run for!

Please remember if you’re ever struggling or need any support, advice, or advocacy, LUSA can help. You can always reach out to me, or pop in to the LUSA office for a chat. I am here to help.

We hope you’re all rearing to go for an incredible term, and we can’t wait to see you around campus. president@lusa.org.nz

Sam Rajnikant Vice President

Kia Ora and Namaskara everyone!

This is probably my tiredest moment this year; however, I’m on the path to recovery and look forward to being more sustainable going forward. Policy reviews have been steadily going, though a few updated policies haven’t been uploaded as yet, as I’ve been under the weather in a few ways. Among the things that have kept me upbeat are close-up encounters with a few insectivorous native birds and their songs during sustainability week (who won the bioblitz, and have you seen the amazing trophy created by EcolSoc’s exec?), and the wholesome LUICS quiz night (well done team Rata and team SEAblings). I suppose the

change proposals are the biggest socio-political phenomenon on campus right now – we really appreciate everyone involved in the student feedback alongside us. Thank you for representing that your student experience is meaningful to you, and for identifying the value of the academic systems at LU, of student support staff and your various engagements with them.

It is questions and korero that establish our stances, so thank you for doing that despite business and stress.

LUSA and Te Awhioraki elections!

Check out the info for both in this issue. If you’re interested in running, reach out and learn some more. The student space is political, yes, though not meant to be overtaken by diplomacy.

Especially at this scale, governance is about service and contribution, not playing a game.

In many ways, the ideals and expectations you have for representation and advocacy from your student union here are what you can expect from your local and national politicians, and even internationally.

So, here’s my advice to you – your caring matters. And yeah, you are allowed to acknowledge the benefits – you get paid, you get CV fodder, and it’s the start of a career path for some. However, you can’t do your job well if you don’t actually care about something – there will be specific issues that matter a little more to you than others, but that gives you the empathy to listen to and organize about issues that you don’t have lived experience with, assisting or consulting with the groups that represent them. In my time at LUSA, I’ve been amazed at how a team like ours with such varying motivations works together – so don’t count yourself out before giving it a chance.

Alright, the international film festival is graciously extended by a week, so I’m going to go make the most of it! See you around and reach out to me if you’re interested in knowing more about the LUSA VP position. vp@lusa.org.nz

Darius J Harris

Postgrad Academic Rep

them. This brings me to mention, not to forget to vote!

Please have your say.

Come and meet the candidates and get involved. Be a willing part of our student life and student experience.

All the very best for the final term and keep ‘chipping away’.

Sam Dryden Rainbow EDI Rep

55

pg.academic@lusa.org.nz Tena koutou katoa, Spring is here, and just like you all, I am thoroughly enjoying the warmer days and not-so-Jack Frosty mornings. Our Campus seems so much more alive with flowers blooming about the area from the BHU to the Prunus outside Hudson Hall to the magnificent Rhododendrons scattered about the place.

I certainly hope you all have recharged after taking a well-deserved break with friends and whanau at the end of Term 3.

Many Post Grads stay on Campus during the mid-semester break to continue their mahi, so for some it never stops, but I did manage to have a few day excursions with my fellow Post Grads. It was good to get them out of the Lab, library, or out just out of their desks for a while.

Here at LUSA, it has been a challenging time as we have submitted feedback on the Change Proposals that were finally made transparent to Students, after much lobbying on behalf of the Student Body. As you know, these proposed changes have large and long-term effects on students across all levels of the University, from academic delivery, support structures and their accessibility, learning support, and even accountability. We have done our very best to make sure students’ concerns and misgivings have been heard. This is all part of our participatory culture that we wish to encourage here on Campus.

We have an open-door policy at the LUSA office, and that is part of our accountability and accessibility to students. This is based on our firm ethical bedrock that is the democratic process, where everyone who is a LUSA member gets to vote and have their say on who they wish to represent

Coral Peat Sustainability Rep

Thank you to everyone who contributed to or engaged with Sustainability Week. We really appreciated your contributions throughout the week and were impressed by your awareness of sustainability issues and sustainable choices. I enjoyed popping in on the different activities throughout the week and want to thank everyone who made this possible.

Highlights for me were the Arboretum working bee (though I could only attend part of this, I was really impressed by the mahi all the volunteers put in to get the Arboretum tidied up), the pancake breakfast for sustainable commuters, and the waste documentary about the life cycle and impacts of plastic production.

I hope you all enjoyed the week and continue to think about how you can make more sustainable lifestyle choices.

Remember, although environmental sustainability is super important, so is social sustainability, cultural sustainability, financial sustainability, and general wellbeing. sustainability@lusa.org.nz

theram.org.nz theram.org.nz

Kia ora e hoa mā! It’s finally Spring and the world is coming back to life! Yay! I hope you all got a chance to rest over the break and are feeling ready to tackle this fourth and final term. Last term was a big one for Rainbow EDI at Lincoln.

We finally opened our new Pride Pathway and had a blast at both SPACE Ball and Sex Quiz. Thank you so much to everyone who showed up and helped to make those events what they were.

As we move forward into a challenging part of the semester now, one fun thing that you can do is look for as many different coloured flowers as you can on campus. See if you can find a whole rainbow!

And as always, look after yourselves. rainbow.rep@lusa.org.nz

Zhexi (Chelcie) Zhang

International Rep

There’s been plenty happening with our students recently, and with lots more to look forward to!

Thank you to everyone who shared your comments and concerns about the University’s Changing Proposals across different faculties. Your voice matters, and student feedback is an important part of these conversations.

We had a fantastic International

6

RAM ISSUE 07 / HEPETEMA 2026

Dinner, with more than 70 students joining us for an evening of food, conversations, and new connections. It was great to see so many familiar faces, as well as plenty of new ones. Thank you to everyone who came along and helped make the night such a success!

Garden Party is coming up, and it is definitely one you won’t want to miss. We are also planning an International Week in Semester 4, with more opportunities to celebrate different cultures, meet new people, and to get involved. Keep an eye on LUSA’s socials and there are more details coming soon!

On a personal note, I was very honoured to recently receive the 2026 Waitaha Canterbury International Student Award, for Cultural Ambassador. I am very grateful to the person who nominated me and to everyone who has supported me along the way.

More than the award itself, the experience reminded me how much we can gain by getting involved in university life. So, to all our international students, “give things a go! Join an event, volunteer, become part of a club, share your culture, meet someone new, or try something you have never done before”. You don’t need to start with something big; sometimes one small step can lead to unexpected opportunities, friendships, and experiences.

I hope to see more international students getting involved, making connections, sharing your cultures, and creating your own memorable experiences here at Lincoln University.

See you around campus and hopefully at International Week and of course Garden Party! international.rep@lusa.org.nz

Argile (Argie) Tsang

Liam Moore

Disability EDI Rep

Wellbeing & Engagement Rep

Semester two’s mid-term break was an important moment to decompress before having to gear up for the final quarter of 2026.I made it a goal to prioritise spending time with family, so I spent most of my break in Auckland. However, if your courses are anything like mine, it may be a break in lectures, but not in assignments…To those of you out there who were in the same boat, I salute thee.

The first half of Semester 2 flew by and some highlights for me were, speaking at the Rainbow Crossing Ribbon Cutting, and marking the Thursdays in Black, Sex Quiz, during Sex Week 2026.

Less fun but certainly important has been my mahi on recent LUSA policy reviews, which were essential to make sure key policies were up-to-date and accessible.

After attending my first National Disabled Students’ Association (NDSA) council in August, a focus for me, is taking on a more disability-support-centric angle. I am hoping to work with the NDSA alongside the exec to kick-start the review and update our uni’s Disability Action Plan (DAP). On that note, I’m always keen on engaging more with our community. So please come to me with anything I could support with!

Iconic’s biggest event of the year is coming up next month, in the form of a Quiz Night collaboration with LUNA. Quiz rounds include disability education categories as well as general knowledge and pop culture categories. It’s free, has free snacks, plus is sensory-friendly with heaps of prizes to be won, including fidget toys and brain teasers! Mark your calendars for October 8th, 6pm in Grounded.

Hey everyone! Liam ‘John’ is coming back at ya with another RAM blurb. I’m going alright; I’ve got a few reports to catch up on and lectures to watch over the break so when this RAM comes out you can ask me how that went.

I’m looking forward to more of these sunny days and warm weather, and of course the end-of-year Garden Party which I get a ‘free’ ticket to (in exchange for working at the event as part of my LUSA role). Speaking of LUSA, nominations for next year’s LUSA Exec are still open; they close on 13th September. If you’re thinking of applying, please do, and talk to me or any executive already in the positions you want to apply for. If you have any questions or are looking for advice, check out some of our recent TikToks, which highlight our ‘Day in the Life’, for you to get the inside perspective of what we really do!

Remember to check in with friends and family and to reach out for help when things aren’t going so well, and keep an eye out for Mental Health Awareness Week (MHAW) starting on the 28th of September.

Ka kite anō.

disability.rep@lusa.org.nz

engagement.rep@lusa.org.nz

7

Carolyn Mavretish Postgrad Engagement Rep

Kia ora koutu, I hope you have all had a refreshing mid-semester break and got in some extra sleep and some extra sunshine. I’ve had my first winter in NZ and it wasn’t nearly as bad as expected; with one day of snow, and it mostly sitting on top of the mountains, providing a lovely backdrop for our campus.

What a dream!

My first term with LUSA has been lovely; the team is extremely welcoming and passionate. It has been a steep learning curve understanding the workings of LU behind the curtain. But some of the things we’ve been working on as a team have been improving communication between LU and the student body, especially advocating against the removal of a stand of native trees at the Grove. A consequence of poor communication, as they have now been removed, which has deeply saddened me, and I feel needs to be acknowledged.

Additionally, we have been working with Lincoln’s International Student body to find a way to improve representation. There is much to look forward to this semester. This Friday, the Music Club will host a ‘Back-to-School gig, complete with karaoke, bites, and drinks. Come along to Grounded at 6pm, as we revitalize the music scene on campus and see Grounded light up! All are welcome!

The PostGrad Club will be hosting their yearly outing too, so if you love to get outside, you’re going to want to stay tuned. And lastly, if you are thinking about running for LUSA Elections, I would highly recommend that you put your nominations forward. The student body is so supportive, and it is a great way to get involved on campus. I have loved my short time here so far! pg.engagement@lusa.org.nz

theram.org.nz

8

8

POSTGRAD ACADEMIC SPOTLIGHT

RAM ISSUE 07 RAM ISSUE 07 / HEPETEMA 2026

Darius J Harris

Postgrad Academic Rep

My name is Darius J Harris, and I am originally from Gisborne through Auckland, then Christchurch, then in Europe, then back to Auckland, then Hawkes Bay, then after the Cyclone in 2023, here to Lincoln wanting to continue my Post Graduate studies in Applied Apiculture.

I was pushed to run for this position rather reluctantly by some friends here on campus! Then once I started, I realised that this is what I had been doing all along during my time here on campus. I had expressed advocacy and manaakitanga, from being a RA at The Crescent, where I was pleased to help facilitate more lighting there with other security measures being enhanced.

I’ve come to be good mates with Demetrio, the previous President before Zara and he kept encouraging me during our catchups to be more directly involved. He is a person that I have learnt to trust, and I have appreciated his insights, even when we have both disagreed during some ‘vigorous banter’.

So yes, it’s his fault!

The most pressing issue affecting Postgrads on campus, would be the cost of basically everything rising with the complete lack of sustainable part-time work available to Postgrads.

I know many Postgrad students who have at least two part time jobs, that they need to make ends meet.

This takes them away from focusing on their academic mahi and can be quite distracting if that mahi has responsibilities attached to it.

I also can see that we need to have more advocacy for the Research

Postgrads as well. They have been missing out, in not being able to be part of feedback sessions here at LUSA and can quietly fade away if we as an Exec don’t actively seek them out.

What steps are being made to ensure Postgraduates have dedicated, quiet study space?

This has been a challenge for not only me but for LUSA and for the LU community as a whole. What I have done within my role is make sure that this issue is foremost in all the stakeholders’ vision as we all continue to seek those spaces.

There has been some good follow-up and we all continue to seek better outcomes for those needed spaces. Alongside the LUSA Exec, we have championed for bluetooth to be enabled again within the Ivey Hall, which will allow not only Postgrads but also Undergrads to wear headphones directly linked to their hot-desks again.

How are Postgrad students (who often balance jobs, families, or research commitments) heard compared to the larger undergraduate population?

I believe Postgrads, need that extra initial help and support while they orientate themselves to our unique campus. It can be confronting to have not only the wide, open spaces, with other students greeting you very informally at times.

But also, knowing where to catch the bus, where to acquire SIM cards to stay in touch with whanau, so the Postgrad ‘Meet and Greet’ Workshops are incredibly important.

I have come to fully understand how certain Postgrad students may not be as direct in raising concerns, facing logistical difficulties and academic misunderstandings with immediate supervisors, or talking directly with fellow students that may have insight into how to seek support and knowledge in dealing with these things. This has been part of understanding the overall integration challenge.

Can Postgrad students raise urgent academic concerns directly to you before main board meetings?

Absolutely! This is exactly what has happened with individual concerns that have been directly raised with me, and the vast majority of those have been resolved in a timely manner.

Other concerns, which I have tended to, involve a broader range of Postgrad students, have taken longer as myself and others have negotiated to facilitate the best outcome for all involved. Good things take time.

It has been a question of trust, but I can see that gradually Postgrads have become more appreciative that LUSA is here to support, offer guidance and advocate on their behalf. I’ve had Postgrads come up to me quite randomly at times here on campus to share experiences and concerns, so I am very pleased to feel that I am trusted.

What kinds of mental health and stress-management support and resources is the university prioritising, especially during high-pressure periods like thesis submission?

First and foremost, it is of extreme importance to have sense of belonging and a sense of place.

I always encourage new Postgrads to get involved with LUSA Clubs that are on offer here. The Posgrad Club and the International Club are a good start.

The ‘Start Smart’ monthly welcome is a great initiative which has been evolving very well. This is a moving feast to say the least, because everyone’s needs are different and one size does not necessarily fit all.

There are great workshops offered

by LTL like the ‘Writing Retreats’ which I have found to be of tremendous benefit. ‘ENDNOTE’ is another fantastic workshop.

Inclusive Education is found within the Library, the Wellbeing Team are always lurking about Grounded; Jayne and the Student Buddy Programme and of course LUSA and Student Health found at the Northern end of Hudson Hall.

These are all great support resources offered here on campus.

9

9

9

SECRETARY SPOTLIGHT Eligh Ashby Secretary

Kia ora, my name is Eligh, and I am the LUSA Secretary. I am currently in my final semester of a Master of Planning. Before coming to Lincoln, I studied Environmental Management and Politics at the University of Otago.

As Secretary, I am responsible for LUSA’s administrative functions, particularly organising meetings, preparing agendas and minutes, and maintaining official records.

I ran for Secretary because I wanted to improve transparency within LUSA and help make Lincoln University the best possible place for students.

Highlights have included the new Executive Semester Report, which I commend the President for bringing to life, providing more detailed election results, as well as planning for a free breakfast trial, which you will hopefully hear more about soon.

How quickly are meeting minutes reviewed, approved, and published to the general student body, and where can students easily access them?

Executive meeting minutes are reviewed and formally approved at the following Board meeting, where the Executive passes a motion confirming that they are a true and accurate record of the meeting.

Once approved, the minutes are signed by the President on behalf

of LUSA and witnessed by me as Secretary. They are then uploaded to the LUSA website under About → Official Documents → Exec Meeting Minutes.

Overall, it generally takes about a month from the original meeting for the approved minutes to be published on the website.

If a student has something they want brought up at a meeting, how do they get it onto the agenda?

There are a few different ways students can bring something forward, depending on what they want to raise.

For an Executive meeting, any LUSA member can attend, subject to the President’s discretion. A student or affiliated body can also request to bring special business before the Executive through a deputation, provided notice is given to the President and the purpose of the deputation is provided.

For an Annual General Meeting, members can submit written notice of a motion they want discussed or voted on. There are specific notice requirements under the LUSA Constitution, particularly if they want the motion circulated to students before the meeting.

There is also the option of a referendum. If at least 50 eligible Lincoln University students sign a written request, the Executive is required to hold a poll in accordance with the Constitution.

How do you ensure that all decisions adhere to the organisation’s constitution?

I can’t tell you how many times I have read LUSA’s constitution!

But essentially, whenever I am in doubt, I go back and read it again. theram.org.nz theram.org.nz

If I notice something being proposed that might conflict with the constitution or one of the policies made under it, I raise that with the Executive.

What’s one task you spend a lot of time on that most students have no idea the Secretary actually does?

Probably the LUSA Policy Subcommittee. As a member of the subcommittee, I spend quite a bit of time reviewing LUSA policies when they come up for review and working through any changes that need to be made.

Some of the policies are big, so reviewing them properly can take a surprising amount of time!

10 10

RAM ISSUE 07 / HEPETEMA 2026 RAM ISSUE 07 / HEPETEMA 2026

Te Wiki o te Reo Māori (Māori Language Week) 2026 The overarching theme is Ake, Ake, Ake – A Forever Language, with a specific nationwide campaign focus on “Te Reo Towns”! This year’s initiative shifts the focus onto communities, encouraging workplaces, schools, and local townships across Aotearoa to normalise the language in everyday spaces. Tu Meke!

Major hubs like Wellington, Rotorua, and Christchurch are launching official parades on Monday 14 September. Smaller towns are equally encouraged to display bilingual signage and host local celebrations. The opening day (14 September) marks Māori Language Day, commemorating the historic 1972 Māori Language Petition delivered to Parliament.

Simple ways you can show your support and participate, can be through Kōrero. Incorporating basic greetings into your morning routines, such as using “Kia ora” or “Mōrena”!

Waiata/Song - you can play or learn a traditional Māori songs with your coworkers or family or just have it on in the background whilst studying. You can also use signage to incorporate bilingual labels for everyday items in your home. Here are some below to get you started.

Ka kite

See you later

The Short Vowels

Nau mai

Welcome

A sounds like u in “cup”

Āe

Yes

E sounds like e in “egg”

Kāo

No

I sounds like ee in “feet”

Wai

Water

O sounds like o in “four”

Manaakitanga

Showing Respect

U sounds like oo in “boot”

Aroha Love

1111

theram.org.nz theram.org.nz

12

RAM ISSUE 07 / HEPETEMA 2026

TE WIKI O TE REO MĀORI

T E K R A M DAY

Join us at Forbes Lawn For...

Food Trucks Entertainment Challenges & Activities Multiple Raffle Giveaway Supporting Local Māori Businesses Open to the Public!

teawhioriaki.org.nz 17.09.2026

Lincoln University

11:00am - 2:00pm

13 13

Te Awhioraki 2027

Positions: Tumuaki and Tumuaki Tuarua (or Tumuaki Takirua x2) Kaituhituhi Te Kaitiaki Putea Kaimahi x3

Important Dates: Meet the Nominations: Mon 10th Aug (9am) Candidates: –Sun 13th Sep (11.59pm) Wed 23rd Sep Results Voting: Announced: Mon 28th Sep (9am) –Mon 5th Oct (11.59pm) Wed 7th Oct

teawhioraki.org.nz/join-us theram.org.nz

14 14

RAM ISSUE ISSUE07 07/ /HEPETEMA HEPETEMA2026 2026 RAM

15 15

theram.org.nz theram.org.nz

16

RAM ISSUE 07 / HEPETEMA 2026

16

RAM ISSUE 07 / HEPETEMA 2026

Mental Health Awareness Week

the last week of This week will be celebrated on campus during Lunch (held on Buddy nt September. The Kaiwhakarite Tauira Stude up for grabs. prizes some with y activit an g Tuesday) will be hostin have a go at our If you are in Grounded, pop by for a korero and can win. activity, then fish for a lucky dip and see what you table our for Venue: Grounded – look Time: 12.30-1.30pm

A year of study is coming to an end with last assessments and exams rapidly looming. If you are struggling to get to grips with the learning, or you haven’t managed to meet other students, let the buddies assist you. They can make sure you meet with the right people to help with your learning; they can also provide pathways and great suggestions on how to connect you socially.

Several activities oc cur on campus that you may not even know about. Such as the Wellbeing Cuppa an d Korero ever y 3rd Tuesday of the month, 2 - 2.4 5 pm in the glass ro om in Grounded. The Monthly Craft Popup 1st Thursday of ever y month, 1.30 - 2.30 pm, in Grounded right be side the cafe.

Volleyball in the LU Gym Fridays at 3 pm .

LUNA Club Games Night Thursdays du ring semester, 6 pm in Grounded. It is ok to come just by yourself or with others; you wi ll find friendly folk at all these activities.

If you would like to have a buddy to answer your questions, then scan the QR code and sign up, or email experience@lincoln.ac.nz

REGISTER FOR A BUDDY

APPLY TO BE A BUDDY

17 17

theram.org.nz theram.org.nz

18 18

RAM ISSUE 07 / HEPETEMA 2026 RAM ISSUE 07 / HEPETEMA 2026

Let’s Get Political - Issue 4

Stylised version of a self-portrait by Dee Patel

19 19

theram.org.nz theram.org.nz

20

RAM ISSUE 07 / HEPETEMA 2026

INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENCY ON LUSA A RESPONSE BY TAHLIA MACCARTHY-MORROGH

An article was written in the previous issue of the RAM highlighting the lack of international students who have served as President on LUSA’s executive. While it did acknowledge the role of NZ Immigration in inhibiting this, the author felt that LUSA and Lincoln University were not doing enough to remedy the perceived injustice, and stated that “they should be actively invested in finding a solution.” Additionally, they appealed to enlist the Human Rights Commission for mediation on the basis of potential indirect discrimination. In actuality, this is not an issue of LUSA or Lincoln University discriminating against our international students, but a failing in New Zealand immigration law. Therefore, it would be incredibly unfair to lay the blame where it was set, at the feet of both the university and LUSA. The author highlighted how the current Presidency requires a forty-hour work week, and how this serves as structural discrimination against international students whose VISAs allow for a maximum of 25 hours per week during the academic term. The offered solution to this was dividing the work into a co-presidency like that seen on Te Awhioraki.

This proposed solution is narrow-minded and not feasible when you consider the realities of the LUSA presidency.

Initially, I would like to point out that LUSA is not paying someone for forty hours every week if the job doesn’t require at least that much work. In fact, I’d argue that a good president who is invested in the job is likely working more.

Even if we do assume forty hours is all that is required, splitting the role as suggested would not result in a clean twenty hours each.

A job-share requires an incredible amount of communication between individuals to ensure everyone is up-to-speed and on the same page.

Considering the sheer number of meetings the president is a part of and the number of boards they sit on, this would likely require multiple check-ins throughout the day just to stay abreast of the minutia of the job. Often, this cannot be accomplished through written communication, especially if you need specific details and understanding conveyed. Additionally, consider the conflict this would create with regards to the matter of voting on proposed issues.

A co-presidency must be unified in their opinion and voting, and when only one member is attending a board meeting, this becomes very complicated very quickly.

This would likely result in both presidents working more than the twenty hours they are paid for.

Furthermore, when it comes to conferences hosted in other regions of the country, who attends and who stays behind?

Do both presidents attend?

How well does this align with a twenty-hour work week?

Consider the number of students LUSA is responsible for.

Membership in Te Awhioraki is significantly below that which is seen in LUSA. This creates a much more feasible opportunity for the suggested dual-presidency model to be an effective and realistic option for the leadership role. Furthermore, Te Awhioraki is proof that LUSA is aware of co-presidency as a concept. It has even been acknowledged that this structure of presidency has been proposed to LUSA before.

The question then becomes, if LUSA is clearly aware of this model of presidency, why have they not chosen to implement it?

A proposal indicates that there has been a systematic review of the co-presidency model, and that LUSA has decided that this is not viable for the LUSA presidency.

Therefore, this is not a case of indirect discrimination as previously suggested.

The final paragraph of the article indicated the fact that no other university in NZ has come up with a solution for the issue in question, and that similar barriers exist across the country. We are implored to be the front-runners in addressing this, to develop a fairer model of student representation, but there is no consideration for the feasibility of such a task.

A co-presidency is not a viable solution to this problem.

The previous article already indicated the most appropriate solution: a specific VISA pathway allowing international students to undertake elected studentrepresentation roles. This is not a solution that can be provided

by LUSA, or by Lincoln University.

This is a solution that can only be granted by challenging current New Zealand law.

The previous author does make a valid point about the inequities shown by the lack of international students having held the presidential role of LUSA. That said, it is unfair to lay the blame squarely on LUSA and LU when in fact it is an issue caused by the limitation of Student VISAs granted by NZ Immigration.

Instead of burdening the Uni or the Student’s Association with the sole responsibility of addressing an issue they are relatively powerless to fix, I implore those involved to re-direct their focus.

Instead, petition Immigration NZ to implement a specific VISA pathway allowing international students in student-representation roles within their universities to increase their allotted weekly work hours to suit the demands of the role in question. This would not only benefit LU students, but international students in student-representation roles across the whole country.

It is a suggestion that certainly bears more consideration.

OPPORTUNITY FOR STUDENT INPUT A message from your ent d i s e r P t n Stude

In the last issue of RAM, an important conversation was raised regarding the structural barriers international students face when considering running for the LUSA Presidency.

As a lot of you already know, it is true that current visa regulations in New Zealand and the structure of the presidency role as a 40-hour work week, create significant barriers for international students to take on the role. I want to be entirely clear; LUSA and I are deeply committed to making this organisation accessible to everyone.

Over the past two years, LUSA has explored several options to remove these barriers, not just for international students, but for parents, postgraduate students, disabled students, etc.

While initial efforts ran into complex legal and operational hurdles, finding an equitable solution remains a top priority.

A primary option I investigated thoroughly was the co-presidency model. On paper, simply splitting the full-time role into two 20-hour positions sounds ideal. In practice, however, it creates serious organisational challenges for LUSA: •

•

•

Feedback from Te Awhioraki’s 2025 co-presidents 21 warned that halving presidential duties requires a high level of trust and mutual understanding on every issue, as well as meticulous coordination and management of responsibility. Given LUSA’s larger operational scale, staff oversight, and service delivery, they advised against adopting their model.

The full report investigating the feasibility of a co-presidency model for LUSA is now available on the LUSA website for anyone interested in what has been looked into already.

I want to assure the Lincoln University student body that I strongly welcome international student leadership. Diverse perspectives are vital to LUSA. Our goal is to ensure that whatever model we adopt actually sets up diverse leaders for success, rather than creating an ineffective setup that potentially also leads to burnout.

This is not the end of the road. LUSA and I remain completely open and committed to finding a sustainable solution. To that end, postgraduate student Dee Patel has set up a dedicated Student Working Group to tackle this issue. This group will actively work through these challenges throughout term 4 to uncover solutions and creative workarounds that LUSA may not yet have found and considered.

If you have fresh ideas, perspectives, or potential solutions, my door is always open.

Let’s keep working together to find a model that truly works for all Lincoln students.

MAKE THE LUSA PRESIDENCY WORK FOR EVERYONE!

Double Handling & Bureaucracy: The President represents students across dozens of university committees, boards, and strategic huis. If we had two LUSA Presidents, there would be a number of these meetings that both presidents would have to attend, doubling up on hours spent doing the same thing. Furthermore, the two individuals would We are looking for 4-6 Lincoln University students to join a have to spend considerable time catching each working group focused on making the LUSA President role other up on everything they’ve done to stay more accessible. on top of everything. A co-president cannot sit on the University Council, be asked about a We especially want to hear from international, postgraduate, and separate committee, and say, “Sorry, President disabled students; your voices and perspectives are essential to B attends that committee, so I don’t know.” shaping a more inclusive students' association.

Capacity & Costs: Splitting or expanding the role introduces real budget and workload considerations. Our main challenge is designing Want to Learn More? a structure that compensates student leaders Yes fairly without compromising existing services.

No Decision-Making & Alignment: A shared leadership model would require careful structuring to avoid administrative overlap and Contact: decision deadlocks. Co-presidents would need dee.patel@lincolnuni.ac.nz to be substantively aligned on issues, votes, president@lusa.org.nz and policy negotiation. Otherwise this could lead to confusion for both students and university staff over who is handling what. theram.org.nz

22

RAM ISSUE 07 / HEPETEMA 2026

Sinking Your Teeth Into Your Rights: Why Young Kiwis Are Losing Millions

by Staying Silent Whether it’s an air fryer from Kmart that dies three months after purchase, a flat appliance that breaks immediately, or concert tickets for an event that gets abruptly cancelled - almost every student has experienced the sting of getting ripped off. Yet, more often than not, young Kiwis simply shrug it off, absorb the financial loss, and move on. It is a passive habit that is costing young adults big time.

According to data from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), over half (51%) of young adults dealt with an unresolved consumer issue in the last two years. A staggering 38% of them took no action at all - no refund request, no complaint, nothing. Nationally, staying silent causes consumers to lose out on an estimated $16.5 million every year.

Liam Moore took the time to chat to Kadie Wilson, who wants to change that.

Could you tell me about your role and what you do?

I’m Kadie Wilson and I’m an advisor for Consumer Protection at the Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment (MBIE), I graduated from Victoria University in 2021.

My work is about outreach when it comes to consumer rights, and I am here because a lot of students and young people don’t realise the benefits of speaking out when something goes wrong and it’s

costing them money that they might not need to lose.

What areas do students tend to lose out?

There are lots of different problem areas that are common for students. A lot of students and young people can relate to buying something for their flat that broke straight away, paying for services that didn’t do what they promised, or getting stuck buying concert tickets that were cancelled or delayed. These are the moments where students and young people tend to just shrug it off but they’re precisely the moments that give you the right to actually speak up.

And that’s in the Consumers Guarantees Act (CGA)?

The Consumers Guarantee Act is the main formal legislation that we work around; the CGA sets up guarantees for products and services from businesses that are trading in New Zealand.

Guarantees mean that you can expect goods and services to meet the following standards: acceptable quality, fit for purpose, delivered on time, in good condition, and fit the description. And, if these standards aren’t met, the CGA gives you the right to speak up and ask for a replacement or a refund.

So, this act covers any product like for example a cheap air fryer from Kmart that broke down a couple months after purchase?

Absolutely, if it’s a product or service that is sold in NZ, then that gives you the right. There are certain factors that are taken into account when dealing with a cheaper product. If it hasn’t lasted the average amount of time you’d expect considering its price, quality, origin, stuff like that, then you’ve probably got the right to ask for a repair, replacement, or refund.

What do you think the barriers are that keep students from making a complaint?

Honestly the reasons are completely understandable I think a lot of students and young people don’t know who to complain to or what the process looks like.

They’re worried that they won’t be taken seriously, or they’re worried to be perceived as “difficult” or being seen as a “Karen”. I do fully empathise because a lot of us have worked retail and hospitality jobs ourselves and we know how hard those roles can be. We don’t want to go out and make someone’s day worse. This isn’t about blaming staff it’s just about asking to get what you paid for and it’s a normal part of being a consumer. Because of these reasons we are losing out on an estimated $16.5 million a year by staying silent, so that small thing you shrug off does add up very quickly.

The “Karen” theme has been quite big on social media for a bit; do you think that sentiment affects

23

young people’s behaviours?

Yeah it is, and honestly that perception holds a lot of people back. A lot of students and young people worry that speaking up means that you have to leave a bad review or cause a scene but that’s not what this is about at all. It’s not about being public or dramatic; it’s just about sending a private respectful email or message to the business saying “hey, this isn’t what I ordered”. That’s not being a “Karen”. You’re not asking for anything special there you’re just asking for what you paid for, you’re just a consumer who expects businesses to meet their obligations.

Complaining about things can be quite confrontational for people, do you have any advice to make it less scary?

A lot of people assume that it can be complicated or confrontational, but the thing to remember is that the protections and processes are already there. It’s about knowing they exist and feeling confident enough to use them. Just remember that you don’t need to be a consumer rights expert, you just need to say something. You also don’t need to be fancy and have this big case backed up or anything, you just need to send a simple email or message saying ‘this isn’t what I ordered’ and a lot of the time business will actually want to a resolve the issue there.

A lot of people will find it’s easier to sort than they expect because businesses can’t be better until they know that something has gone wrong.

Most businesses will want to resolve that issue and treat you fairly because you might be more likely to go back there or recommend them to your friends.

So it’s not about getting someone in trouble it’s just about giving the business the chance to do the right thing and you don’t need to be some legal expert to do that.

What about if you don’t get the outcome that you are after?

If the business doesn’t cooperate in that respect, you’re not out of options. If you haven’t already, make sure you’ve got everything recorded in writing. Make sure you’ve written an email to the business to explain what went wrong and what you’re asking for.

That alone often changes the

response but if the business still isn’t budging, then that’s where support comes in. Consumer Protection have got a website with step-by-step guidance on how to complain and what to expect, and Citizens Advice Bureau can help you understand your options 1-on-1 so you don’t have figure that out alone.

If you still need help solving the issue, a formal method would be using something called the disputes tribunal which is a low-cost, low-stress way of resolving everyday consumer problems with a business. You can use it for a faulty product or service, if you were overcharged, or any other situation where you felt like you didn’t get a fair deal.

There are no lawyers or judges, you represent yourself and an independent referee hears both side’s explanation of what happened and decides on a fair outcome. There is a filing fee for using it which is usually between sixty to a couple hundred dollars depending on the size of your claim. I recommend going to the disputes tribunal website to see which fee applies for you but remember that there are no lawyers or judges so even at the higher end of those fee bands it’s still much cheaper and simpler than going to court.

The CGA doesn’t apply to private purchases like marketplace cars and second-hand goods from non-businesses. Do you still have protection in those instances?

My personal guidance is to just be careful of that before buying privately. There are definitely some benefits to buying privately and a lot of people might find it’s cheaper, but it could mean that you lose out on a lot of money if something goes wrong and you’re not protected. My guidance would be to buy from a business if you want those CGA protections but if you do find a private sale and that’s a risk you want to take then you can. I’d recommend you bring in a support person to help you so you don’t feel rushed into making a quick decision that you don’t want to be making. They can help you slow down and think about what you’re buying. Otherwise, when it comes to private sales, although you are not protected by the CGA there are some other consumer laws that might protect you. There’s the Contract and Commercial Law theram.org.nz

Act, which provides some guidance about what rights you have. I’d recommend going to our website, to the consumer law section to see how that works in general.

Does the CGA extend to housing and rent?

In theory yes, the CGA applies to products and services that are traded in NZ so any kind of product or service you buy whether big or small is covered by the CGA. Go to our website to see which guarantee applies to your certain issue.

Does this mindset of speaking up and demanding fair treatment extend beyond consumer rights and into wider life? Like if something’s not quite right at work or at uni?

Yeah absolutely, that’s a great sentiment that applies to a lot of things that are particularly relevant to students and young people. The important thing to remember here is that I’m not saying you have to be an expert or know much about the laws, you just have to say something. Even if you’re not completely sure if you have a right in a certain situation there’s absolutely nothing wrong with speaking out in a calm and respectful way because speaking out doesn’t have to be dramatic or complicated.

Is there any key takeaway you want end with?

I’d just like to say that hopefully the key takeaway for people here is that if something feels off, say something, because you are entitled to fair treatment and there is a process out there to help you with the next steps to help you get a repair, replacement, or refund where it’s owed.

Keep an eye out for MBIE’s upcoming 2026 New Zealand Consumer Survey, released this July/August, for further insights into consumer rights and statistics across the country.

24

RAM ISSUE 07 / HEPETEMA 2026

Many thanks go to the planners and their organisations for giving up their time to come and talk with our members and students, and Associate Professor Hamish Rennie for stepping in as our last-minute timer and MC!

By Eligh Ashby - Vice-President, LUPA

Planner Speed Dating Brings Students and Industry Together Back in May, the Lincoln University Planning Association (LUPA) hosted Planner Speed Dating, giving students the opportunity to have quick-fire chats with planners working across the industry.

More than 30 students attended, alongside staff from the Department of Environmental Management, and had the opportunity to chat with planners from Selwyn District Council, Waimakariri District Council, Christchurch City Council, Environment Canterbury Regional Council, Boffa Miskell, Novo Group, Baseline Group, and WSP. Feedback from those who attended was that it was a great event and an awesome opportunity for students to network with a variety of planners. It also gave Department of Environmental Management staff the chance to catch up with the numerous Lincoln planning graduates who are now out working in the industry.

Missed out? We have another event coming up!

If you missed out on Planner Speed Dating, don’t worry, as LUPA is hosting another major event this semester.

Our RMA Reform Seminar will be held on Friday, 18 September 2026, from 2:00 - 4:00 pm in the Inaka Room, Waimarie Building. Come along to hear from professional planners about the new resource management legislation, with time to connect and ask questions, plus some snacks available. The event is free for both LUPA members and non-members, and we can’t wait to see you there!

Postgraduate & Mature Students:

25

COFFEE, CAKE & KoRERO

Tue 29 Sept 10.30am–12pm Raspberry Café, Tai Tapu Buy Tickets Here Untilut!

O Sold

theram.org.nz

Postgraduate and Mature Students - take a break from your studies and join LUSA for Coffee, Cake and Kōrero.

This is a great chance to meet fellow students and close out 2026 while enjoying a slice of cake and a hot drink on us!

26

RAM ISSUE 07 / HEPETEMA 2026

Postgrad Life:

Surviving, Thriving, and Occasionally Eating Instant Noodles

By Dee Patel - President of the Lincoln University Postgrad Club

There is something wonderfully strange about being a postgraduate student. You can spend an entire day thinking about one tiny problem that nobody else seems to care about, convince yourself at 2 am that you have finally solved it, and then wake up the next morning to discover that you absolutely have not. You learn to celebrate very small victories: getting your code to run, finding a useful paper, finishing a particularly painful section of your thesis, or simply making it through the week, along with questioning every life decision that brought you here. But somewhere between deadlines, research, experiments, readings, meetings and seemingly endless cups of coffee, it can be easy to forget that postgraduate life is supposed to be a part of university life too.

That is one reason the Lincoln University Postgrad Club exists.

Finding your People:

Postgraduate study can sometimes feel surprisingly isolating. Undergraduate life often comes with a built-in social environment, big classes, clubs, lectures, halls and people who are all roughly following the same timetable.

Postgrad is Different:

One person might be in the lab at 7 am.

Someone else might work best at midnight.

Another might spend most of their week in the field. Some of us have classes, some have offices, some have research projects, and some seem to spend most of their time staring at R, Excel, or a very intimidating reference list. With such different schedules, it can be surprisingly difficult to bump into other postgraduate students and feel like you are part of a community.

The Postgrad Club is our attempt to change that.

We want postgraduate students to feel that they belong on campus, not just academically, but socially. We want you to have opportunities to meet people, make friends, share experiences and, importantly, talk to someone who understands when you say, “I spent six hours working today and somehow achieved absolutely nothing.” Because chances are, they have been there too.

We’re More than Just Coffee:

Yes, we do drink coffee. Probably more than is medically advisable. But the

Postgrad Club is about much more than caffeine. We organise social events throughout the year, including games nights, movie nights, road trips and other opportunities to get away from the desk and do something fun. We also work with LUSA to put on events for postgraduate students, and many of these include free food or snacks. And postgraduate students do seem to appreciate free food.

Our events have brought together some great crowds, including a dinner where we fed more than 100 postgraduate students burgers. Apparently, the secret to building a postgraduate community is not complicated: give people food and somewhere to sit together.

This year we have plenty more planned.

We are looking forward to a stargazing trip to Lake Ellesmere, a Laser Tag afternoon, another movie night, and hopefully plenty more adventures throughout the year. The idea is simple: give postgrad students a reason to put the laptop down, leave the office or lab, and spend some time with other humans.

The Best Part of Being a Postgrad:

There is one thing I wish someone had told me before I started postgraduate study: it can be challenging. There are frustrating days, confusing results, failed experiments, difficult readings and moments where you wonder whether your research question has personally declared war on you. But nobody really tells you how incredible it feels when you finally see your findings for the first time. After months of working through a problem, questioning your assumptions, dealing with setbacks and wondering whether you are getting anywhere, you eventually see something in your data that you didn’t know before.

That moment is special. You aren’t just completing an assignment or sitting an exam. You have discovered something. You have added a tiny piece to our collective understanding of the world. And suddenly, all those frustrating days make a little more sense.

So, why join the PG Society?

Because postgraduate study doesn’t have to mean spending several years alone with your thesis. Come along to an event. Bring a friend. Make a new one. Talk to someone from a completely different discipline.

Tell us about your research. Or don’t talk about research at all. You can spend an

evening playing games, watching a movie, going on a road trip, staring at the stars, or attempting to destroy your friends at laser tag. And if you have to go back to your thesis afterwards, that’s okay. Your thesis will still be there. Unfortunately. But before you do, grab some instant noodles.

They are cheap, convenient and arguably a longstanding institution of postgraduate life. Add some vegetables and cheese, and you can even convince yourself you’ve made a nutritious meal. At this point, I suspect generations of Lincoln University postgraduate students have sat in front of their laptops with a packet of instant noodles beside them. So perhaps that is what postgraduate life really is: doing something you care about, surrounded by people who care about their own strange and wonderful things, occasionally questioning your choices, and eating noodles while you figure it all out. And honestly? I wouldn’t have it any other way.

27

By Aleesha Young

On Saturday, 8th of August, LU Run Club took on the Foster Parkrun in Rolleston as part of our Term 3 event.

It was a chilly start to the morning, with frost still covering the ground as we arrived at Foster Park at 8am. Despite the cold, we still had brave runners and walkers from the club ready to take on the 5 km course.

It was great to see the group stick together throughout the run, making the run enjoyable and having great yarns along the way.

The Parkrun had 175 participants, where some keen runners and walkers embraced the dress-up themed event. This created a fantastic atmosphere and plenty of other runners and walkers cheering and supporting each other, whether they were in their pjs or overalls! A big thank you to all the volunteers who make the event happen each week.

After finishing, we headed to Robert Harris for a hot drink and a bite to eat, which was definitely appreciated after the frosty morning. Another big thank you to LUSA for supporting our Run Club events and helping fund initiatives that encourage our members to get active and involved.

Overall, it was a really cool event and a great way to spend a Saturday morning. We would highly encourage everyone to give their local Parkrun a go. They are free, have a welcoming atmosphere, and are a great way to meet new people while getting active.

LU Run Club

On Friday the 31st of July, the annual SPACE Ball was held at the Tai Tapu Hotel. The theme for this year was, ‘Enchanted Fairy Forest’, and it did not disappoint! Although the weather was less than optimal with torrential rain, the cosy cavern of the private function room, with aesthetic mood lighting, made for a beautiful evening. From the fun and wildly themed photobooth to the beautifully handcrafted crepe paper flowers, the decorations were phenomenal, and the music was on point.

As the evening cranked up, the room quickly filled with students dressed to impress in creative outfits, flowing dresses, and fun ties.

With old and new friends catching up, the first drink-free tokens were quickly used, and the dance floor gradually became the centre of attention. The weather may have been damp, but the atmosphere lifted everyone’s spirits.

By the end of the night, the SPACE Ball had delivered a memorable evening full of laughter, dancing, creativity and plenty of moments worth remembering. Thank you to everyone who came!

A huge thank you goes out to the SPACE committee and everyone involved in putting the event together, from the decorations and music, to the organisation behind the scenes. It was a fantastic night and a great reminder of what makes the SPACE community so special. We can’t wait to see what next year’s ball brings!

@lurunclub theram.org.nz

28 28

RAM ISSUE 07 / HEPETEMA 2026 RAM ISSUE 07 / HEPETEMA 2026

Every Lincoln student has that one day they’ll never forget...

The day lectures finish. The books get put away. The costumes come out. Garden Party isn’t just a party; it’s a Lincoln rite of passage. A day of live music, mates, memories and moments you’ll be talking about long after you leave the Rugby Field. The countdown is on, and the artists are locked in. Take a more in-depth look at the legends we’ve got lined up for you.

Drax Project are Shaan Singh (lead vocals, sax, keys), Matt Beachen (drums), Sam Thomson (bass, keys, BVs) and Ben O’Leary (Guitar, keys, BVs). Beginning as jazz students busking on the streets of Wellington New Zealand, Drax Project have grown into one of the most successful groups ever to come out of the country.

Through their own headline tours, international festival performances and opening for the likes of Ed Sheeran, Christina Aguilera, Lorde, Brian McKnight and Camila Cabello, the band have established themselves as a ‘must see’ live act.

After two early EPs established their reputation in New Zealand, their self-titled debut album, on US label 300, made ripples around the world.

To date Drax Project have collected nearly a billion streams and 34 platinum accreditations internationally. The single “Woke Up Late” ft Hailee Steinfeld achieved #24 on overall US radio charts and passed the threshold for US gold. “Catching Feelings” ft Six60 and Phony Ppl peaked at #16 in the US RnB radio charts, with the original also achieving US gold sales. They accompanied Famous Dex on the standout single “Light” from his chart-topping gold-certified 2018 debut, Dex Meet Dexter (which bowed at #12 on the Billboard Top 200) and collaborated with Diamond certified New Jersey rapper Fetty Wap on the AUS/NZ hit “Firefly”.

Their second studio album ‘Upside’ (2023) reaffirmed their reputation for crafting sophisticated pop for a global audience. Highlight US performances include the i-Heart Radio Festival, Rolling Stone Magazine’s Coachella party and two sold out headline club shows in New York. Highlights in Europe include touring as headline tour support for Christina Aguilera and Camila Cabello, along with five consecutive sold out headline shows in London and strong audience bases in The Netherlands and Germany.

September 2025 saw the band tour Australia with world renowned collective Parliament Funkadelic and Funk pioneer George Clinton to great acclaim. Drax Project are fast approaching the significant achievement of being the first NZ band to have 10 Platinum records in Australia this millennium. Beyond Woke Up Late and Catching Feelings, three other Drax Project songs are on track to achieve ARIA Gold status.

With an appetite for success bigger than a rampaging Godzilla, Savage is breaking all the dance music rules. Who else dominated the airwaves and hung two quadruple platinum selling singles plaques on their wall?

29

The voice behind the four times platinum selling dance record, “Swing”, with Joel Fletcher and viral radio smash hit “Freaks” with Timmy Trumpet is Savage. The six times Platinum “Freaks” is a bonafied global dance anthem that has reigned in over a billion streams. It was #3 in ARIA Singles Chart Australia, #11 Single in France, #9 Sweden, has amassed 70+ million views online and reached #22 on the Global Shazam chart. And with 16 licensing partners for “Freaks” globally, including signing with Republic for the USA. It’s no secret that Savage is multi genre artist, having sold in excess of 2 million records as a hip hop artist, but it was his breakthrough into the global dance realm that championed his third #1 single and turned the local hero into a dominating success worldwide. His new hybrid of bounce, trap and big room EDM has relished at the core of the international dance scene, garnering the support of Steve Aoki, Skrillex, W&W, Carnage, VINAI, Hardwell, Baauer and more of dance music’s elite.

Riiki Reid is a 24-year-old dream pop powerhouse from Wellington, Aotearoa. An artist with multiple talents which span vocal, production, dance, and songwriting, Riiki Reid is setting the alternative pop scene on fire. Drawing inspiration from a diverse range of musical acts that include the Cure to Dua Lipa.

Riiki Reid is an artist who stands on her own, yet has held a consistent presence on the New Zealand hot charts in recent years with hits like ‘The City’ reaching the coveted #1 spot.

An electrifying live performer, Riiki Reid mashes vocal with eclectic dance and even rocks an old Fender Mustang as she effortlessly commands the spotlight, leaving fans spellbound by her infectious stage presence.

Having inked a deal with Warner Music New Zealand, Riiki Reid has toured alongside Lorde, Six60, LAB, and Sir Dave Dobbyn and now has her sights set on the global stage.

Kava & Pyramids formed in 2023 and officially stepped onto the Christchurch scene in 2024, quickly building a name for themselves through hosted events at Bar 185. What started as grassroots momentum soon turned into one of the fastest rises in the local DJ circuit.

Based in Christchurch, the duo blends Fijian and Egyptian roots into a distinct cultural identity that shapes both their sound and presence.

Known for their ability to control any room, Kava & Pyramids deliver highenergy, seamless sets across HipHop, R&B, Top 40, and global club sounds, creating moments that keep crowds locked in from start to finish. By 2025, their rapid progression saw them step into Original Sin, the busiest club in Christchurch, where they’ve become known for holding down peak time sets and bringing unmatched energy to the dance floor.

Their consistency and crowd connection have quickly positioned them as one of the city’s most in-demand upcoming DJ acts. 2025 marked a breakout year for the duo. They performed across Auckland, Dunedin, and Christchurch, while also taking their sound internationally with shows in Fiji.

With upcoming performances in Australia for 2026, their trajectory is continuing beyond New Zealand, signalling the start of a much bigger global presence. With a foundation built on culture, energy, and consistency, Kava & Pyramids are more than just DJs; they’re building a movement. As they continue to expand, they’re bringing a fresh, global sound to every stage they step on, both in New Zealand and beyond. theram.org.nz

RAM ISSUE ISSUE07 07/ /HEPETEMA HEPETEMA2026 2026 30 RAM 30

GWYN! Is a kiwi multi genre DJ who loves a boogie. She vibes with ukg, house and everything inbetween. Her sets are packed with base and groove. Known in the local underground and student club scene, performing at prominent venues like Hide Club and events connected with promoters like Cream NZ and Sub180. She focuses on high-energy dance floor beats, bass, and club mixes.

Catch you on the D-floor.

DJ Hokey is a Christchurch-based, Taranaki-born DJ, and he returns for his second year at Garden Party. He started off DJing at the age of 16, and after making a name for himself up North, he decided to bring his talents down South.

He is well experienced after playing at other Lincoln University events, Hide Club, flat parties, and a wide range of other student venues. He understands what student crowds want and how to keep the dance floor moving all night, whether it’s peak-hour chaos or late-night singalongs; his track selection and mixing keep energy levels up and crowds engaged. You should expect a high-energy set with a mix of popular tracks, throwbacks and songs that get everyone going.

DJ Hokey is looking forward to bringing the vibes and getting the Garden Party crowd moving once again.

31 31

Tips & Tricks for a Good Garden Party.

Register your Pres & Afters GoodOne Party Register is all about helping you have a great party without shit going down. When parties go bad it’s usually the host who suffers the most.

Good One is here to help you (& your flat) have a good time, while keeping your friends & neighbours safe and outta trouble! Register now: goodone.org.nz

A VODKA CITRUS SITUATION:

Have a Good Feed Get a big fry up going for the flat before you head out, and don’t forget to refuel throughout the day on all the free hot food, and Red Frogs pancakes at the Festival.

Legit I.D Garden Party is R18, so bring your valid ID with you. No screenshots. No paper licences. No firearms licence. Make sure you’ve got acceptable proof of age on you before you leave home.

Water Up For every few drinks, chuck some water in there too. You paid for the festival, not a premium seat in the intox/support tent, plus this will help with the dry horrors in the morning.

6 Before 6?...nah Pace yourself. It’s a marathon, not a tequila-based sprint. Stop at the buzz and stay in the sweet spot. Avoid regrets, like missing out on Drax Project because you peaked too soon!

Sunburn anyone?

Sunburn at 4pm is annoying. Sunburn + dancing + tomorrow morning is a personal attack! There will be free sunscreen dotted around Garden Party for you to help yourself to.

Look after your mates (and let them look after you.)

If your mate says, “You’ve had enough,” that’s not betrayal. That’s someone trying to make sure you actually remember the best bits tomorrow.

HOW REFRESHING. ALC. VOL

5.0%

DRINK RESPONSIBLY

theram.org.nz© 2026 THE ABSOLUT COMPANY AB © 2026 THE COCA-COLA COMPANY

32

RAM ISSUE 07 / HEPETEMA 2026

Experience the world on your doorstep!

Sunday 13 September 10am–3pm Lincoln Event Centre

FREE ENTRY

Celebrate the rich diversity of over 30 cultures through food, music, dance and sports at Selwyn’s largest multicultural festival.

A great day out for students, staff, and the wider community.

selwyn.govt.nz/culturefest WhatsonSelwyn/events

STI’S S TI’S & & CONTRACEPTION C ONTRACEPTION

33 33

Contraception

STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections)

It is important to think about contraception even if you are not yet or not currently sexually active but are thinking about it or it may happen.

Some contraception does not work immediately and needs time to be effective.

STIs are transmitted from one person to another during any type of sexual contact. They are really common. Over 50% of the adult population will have a STI at some time in their life- the highest rates are in under 25yr olds.

STIs can cause symptoms in the genitals, anus, and throat. Some can cause rashes on other parts of the body such as hands and feet.

STIs are a normal part of being a sexually active human- there is no shame in being tested or treated for them.

There are many different types of STIs – the most common are bacterial infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis and mycoplasma genitalium, viral infections such as herpes, HPV, HIV and hepatitis, and protozoa/parasites such as trichomonas, public lice and scabies.

Contraception is a personal choice and there are a number of factors to consider when making the right decision for you. Nothing is 100% effective except abstinence….. Every contraceptive option has advantages, disadvantages, potential side effects (some of which can be desirable for some people such as stopping periods) and effectiveness.

It’s great to talk over options with friends/whanau etc but it is also important to realise that what suits others may be different from what suits you.

Talk to your Doctor or Nurse about the best options for you.

Different STIs can cause different symptoms or no symptoms at all so people can pass them on without knowing.

You cannot tell by looking if someone has an STI You cannot catch a STI from a toilet seat Even if you practice safe sex every time nothing is 100% effective to prevent STIs Condoms and dental dams are the best way to prevent STIs

Things to think about with contraception (this list is not exhaustive) include: Effectiveness Convenience Acceptability Your health needs Planning for a pregnancy Potential side effects Change in periods for those with a uterus STI protection Two broad categories of contraception arethose that contain hormones and those that don’t.

Hormonal options include: Emergency Contraceptive Pill, Progesterone only Pill (mini-pill), Combined Pill, Depo Provera injection, Jadelle (rods), Mirena (IUD). Non hormonal options include: Abstinence, Fertility Awareness, Condoms (male and female), Copper IUD, Vasectomy, Tubal Ligation.

Some things to help reduce your risk of having an STI include: get any symptoms checked, keep sex toys clean and use new ones with new partners, wash your hands, have a STI test every 3 months and with new partners.

Get vaccinated for Hepatitis B and HPV if you haven’t already been A STI check involves a vaginal self-swab or urine test and sometimes a blood test Most STIs can be treated with tablet medication or topical creams Untreated STIs can cause fertility issues in the future

justthefacts.co.nz sexualwellbeing.org.nz See your Healthcare team if you have any questions or concerns. theram.org.nz theram.org.nz

34

Kōrero Whetūao

RAM ISSUE 07 / HEPETEMA 2026

OFFENSIVE BUT FUNNY HOROSCOPES

(August 23 – September 22)

You’ll reject someone because they’re “not your type,” then spend three weeks obsessing over them because they had the audacity to stop texting. You don’t want a relationship, you want a perfectly curated inconvenience. Getting a compliment on something you’ve secretly spent three hours perfecting will be your highlight of the week.

(October 23 – November 21)

Stop holding grudges against people who have genuinely forgotten what they did.

You’re fighting battles they don’t even know happened. Your bank account is mysteriously surving because you refuse to buy anything unless you’ve decided it’s worth it, but you will absolutely spend $8 on a coffee when emotionally compromised.

(December 22 – January 19)

( February 19 – March 20)

(April 20 – May 20)

(June 21 – July 22)

Nobody is impressed by how busy you are.

Please stop turning burnout into a personality trait.You may get praise from a lecturer and pretend you don’t care while secretly thinking about it for three days. Your September mantra: “If I have to do everything myself, why are you even here?”

You’re about to spend the entire month romanticising your life instead of actually living it. You’ll have a beautifully colourcoded plan for getting your life together, which will remain completely untouched while you stare at the ceiling thinking about your future. Your bank account will also mysteriously empty itself on coffee, snacks and little treats you bought because “you deserve it.”

Your biggest achievement this month will be leaving your room before midday. Spring has arrived, but you’re still emotionally attached to your duvet. You’ll develop feelings for someone based entirely on their looks, their coffee order and one mildly interesting conversation. Naturally, you’ll ignore every red flag because apparently being stubborn is now a personality trait.

Your bank account is begging for mercy, your attendance is a suggestion, and your emotional stability is entirely dependent on whether someone replies with a full sentence or just “ok.” Stop taking everything personally. That look your lecturer gave you probably wasn’t about you. Probably.

September mantra: “I’m fine.” You are absolutely not fine.

(September 23 – October 22)

This month, you’ll say “I’m easy, whatever everyone wants” when asked where to go, then veto every suggestion. You don’t want drama, but somehow you are always standing in the middle of it holding everyone’s secrets. Stop trying to keep everyone happy. You’re not Switzerland, and nobody asked you to mediate a flat argument at 1am.

You’ll say yes to a night out even when you have an assignment due the next morning. Naturally, you’ll have the time of your life and regret absolutely nothing until 9am! You’ll flirt with someone purely because you’re bored, and accidentally give them the (November 22 – December 21) impression you’re interested.

(January 20 – February 18)

You’re about to spend the entire month acting like you’re too cool to care while caring far too much. Spring has arrived at Lincoln, and you’ve suddenly decided you’re entering your “new era”, despite having done absolutely nothing to deserve one. You’ll ignore someone for three days, reply at 2am with “haha yeah,” then wonder why they’re confused.

You call it independence.

(March 21 – April 19)

You’ll confidently tell everyone you’ve “got this assignment sorted” while having written approximately three words. You work best under pressure, apparently although at this point, the pressure is doing all the work. Expect a 2 am caffeinefuelled breakdown followed by a suspiciously decent submission.

(May 21 – June 20)

You’ve already changed your mind three times about what you’re doing with your life. You’ll open your laptop, check TikTok, reply to 14 messages, and somehow end up researching something completely unrelated to your assignment. Then, at 11:47pm, you’ll discover the deadline is tomorrow. Again.

(July 23 – August 22)

Stop flirting with people who clearly need therapy. You’re not their soulmate, you are just bored. Your lucky moment will be any day you manage to attend a lecture without checking your phone every four minutes. Your unlucky moment will be when your lecturer remembers your name. Your September mantra: “It’s probably fine.” It absolutely is not.

35

1

2

8 6 5 3 8 1 1 7 9 5 2

4 7 3 8 9

7 4

Get new sudokus at https://sudoku.cba.si/

#167289

Difficulty: easy

1 6 5 3 1 2 6 7 #96058

3

7 3

5 9 8 4 7

4 3 8 1 8

1 4 6 2 Difficulty: harder

3

1

2

7

#163288

5 6

3

9 7 2 3 8 #6606

1 2

5 4

9

2 4 7 1 9 6 2 8

5 8

7

4 1

Difficulty: moderate

8 2

4

6

9 1

4

9 3 5 8 4 7 5

Difficulty: hardest

1 5

9 3 8

6

#192234

4 6 3 7 6 #96008

6

6 7 2

2

3 4

5 8

7 1 4

9

7 9

2 1 7

Difficulty: hard

5 3

8 9 2 5

1 6 2 8

2 9 8 2 8 1 6 7 3

Difficulty: hardest

What does love look like in 2026?

SHOW US AND GET PAID If you’re into creating content, a photographer with a fresh eye, a quick-witted writer, or all of these, this is your chance to share how love looks, feels, and works in your world.

For every piece of approved content you create and we use, we pay you:

$200 per photo $500 per article $1,500 per creator content.

Scan the QR code to see the briefs and get the deets. theram.org.nz

Can't solve it? Check the solution at https://sudoku.cba.si/ Can't solve it? Check the solution at https://sudoku.cba.si/

4

6

6

Can't solve it? Check the solution at https://sudoku.cba.si/ Can't solve it? Check the solution at https://sudoku.cba.si/ Get new sudokus at https://sudoku.cba.si/ Get new sudokus at https://sudoku.cba.si/

2

5

Can't solve it? Check the solution at https://sudoku.cba.si/ Can't solve it? Check the solution at https://sudoku.cba.si/ Get new sudokus at https://sudoku.cba.si/ Get new sudokus at https://sudoku.cba.si/

Get new sudokus at https://sudoku.cba.si/

SUDOKU

36

RAM ISSUE 07 / HEPETEMA 2026