Student Speak
Rochester and Rutherford is an independent Hall located in the heart of the University of Canterbury. We are known for our relaxed atmosphere, pastoral care, academic support, strong connections and exceptional food. The careful blend of tradition and key social interactions allow our students to develop in an environment that allows independence and personal growth, all of which are formative for the years ahead.
Our reputation is best known by our alumni so take time to talk to one of them, watch this video, and read our testimonials below.
Life at Rochester and Rutherford is a thoroughly engaging experience. The hall attracts like-minded people who collectively create an environment full of fun and opportunity. I came from Auckland to study at the University of Canterbury and from day one I felt welcome and connected. During my year living at the hall I took many opportunities to engage in community, cultural and sporting activities. I particularly enjoyed my role on the student executive organizing events to encourage community engagement.
The residential tutors were involved and encouraging and I appreciated the excellent academic support from subject tutors. I have since become a law tutor at the hall and enjoy giving back through sharing in the learning and achievement of current students.
— Ana Pye
Resident 2018 | Tutor 2021 & 2022
Law & Arts
Rochester and Rutherford hall is a great environment to meet some awesome, like-minded people. There is a great culture at the hall which really helped me to succeed. The smaller size creates a close community feel which I really enjoyed.
The hall gives you a great support network to help you adjust to university life, whether that is academic help or pastoral support the hall backs you all the way.
From North Canterbury, I had the opportunity to drive into university each day. Going into the halls was a great decision, it’s an awesome environment to meet new people and form lasting friendships.
— Joel Epps
Resident 2018 | Tutor 2021
Mechanical Engineering
Rochester and Rutherford Hall is the perfect environment in which student life and student success are valued. The hall offers great studying facilities and tutoring from previous students who have achieved at a high level. This enables students to excel in their respective fields. Student well-being is also of the upmost priority, with tutors who regularly catch up with and genuinely care for the students. Further, R&R recognises that the halls are a place for making new connections and creating unforgettable moments. For that reason, the student voice is prominent in shaping the year. Each year there is a student led executive that has the budget and freedom to organise events including rec room parties, sport competitions, cultural evenings, themed dinners and more. For me, this meant that my time at R&R was unique and completely reflective of what myself and my peers wanted out of our first year at university.
— Caleb Fraser
Resident 2019 | Tutor 2022
Masters in International Relations and Diplomacy
My experience at R&R was one of constant support, opportunities and endless memories. The transition into the Hall was seamless, with the comprehensive support from the Residential Tutors being the backbone of student engagement. This unparalleled level of support transformed my experience as it provided guidance and support in all aspects of our lives.
R&R allows students to excel in their respective areas and opens up opportunities that previously were unimaginable. For myself, starting fresh in a new community was daunting. However, the extensive support from the hall allowed me to easily slot into numerous opportunities which would not be possible had I chosen elsewhere.
Specifically, being a member of the student executive, allowed myself and the students to implement activities that the cohort felt passionate about. We had a trip to Hanmer Springs, community volunteering at a retirement home, inter-hall competitions, “wellness week” (a week dedicated to focusing on the mental health of the hall), themed dinners, a Hall Ball and most importantly a yearbook to remember the perfect memories through.
ACADEMIC TUTOR: Since leaving the Hall as a student in 2018, I have returned as an Academic Tutor for Law and Commerce. Being an Academic Tutor has allowed me to continue to engage with first-year students with a fresh and relatable stance. The role extends beyond mere academia, rather, it provides extensive opportunities to create meaningful relationships. An individual approach is taken for each student, catering to their specific needs. The approach may vary from group interactive sessions, practice questions, one-on-one comprehensive support or online consolidation videos. This ensures each student can truly excel in their first year of university.
— Tayla Higgs-Macbeth
Resident 2018 | Tutor 2021
Law & Commerce