It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of Kees Payne, a Level 3 Mechanical Engineering student. 

You may have already seen this on social media but, with the blessing of Kees’ whānau, we also wanted to share the news with you.   

This is a very difficult time, and our thoughts are with Kees’ whānau, his friends, and everyone who knew him well.  

Kees’ Dad was keen for everyone to know that Kees was enjoying his course, said he had some solid mates and was really looking forward to getting his certificate and starting his cadetship at Dynes on Donald Street.  

People process loss in different ways so please take the time you need to process this news and reach out if you need support. Grief can linger so even if you don’t feel the need to do this now, please remember that these services are always available to you.   

  • Student Support 

  • Te Punaka Ōwheo (ākonga Māori support) 

  • Student Health (Dunedin) 

  • After-hours emergency on-call support 

    • (+64) 21 735 421 

  • Otago Polytechnic Chaplain 

Take care of yourselves and each other.


Published on 13 Aug 2025

Orderdate: 13 Aug 2025
Expiry: 13 Aug 2027