Otago Polytechnic’s Heavy Automotive Engineering students are set to enter a new chapter of learning thanks to the generosity of Port Otago.

Having celebrated the opening of its new Heavy Automotive Engineering facility in Donald St, Kaikorai Valley, earlier in the year, Otago Polytechnic will tomorrow (Friday 29 November) receive four massive diesel engines previously used in Port Otago “straddle carriers”, as well as a Clark 55 loader.

The donation was instigated by Matt Eves, Port Otago Maintenance Manager, and was a result of a visit to the port by Otago Polytechnic automotive staff, who highlighted the innovative Kaikorai Valley facility, which provides a range of Heavy Automotive programmes aimed at meeting the demands of industry.

“Port Otago saw this as a great opportunity to support the training programme and encourage those participating to consider a career with our team here at Port,” Matt says.

Otago Polytechnic Automotive Engineering lecturer Rob Roderique says numerous learning opportunities will result from the donation of the machinery.

“We explained to Port Otago what we are doing in our heavy vehicle programme and they offered assistance to Otago Polytechnic.

“Training purposes will range from diesel component diagnoses, repairing transmissions, axles, hydraulics, servicing and maintenance, disassembly and reassembly, as well as learning various engine systems.”

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