Pancakes and games nights - student halls provide more than accommodation

Not-for-profit organisation Red Frogs focuses on creating safe, positive environments for young people, often using simple initiatives like pancake nights as an ice breaker to encourage socialising.

A recent pancakes and games night by UniLodge Wellesley Apartments and Red Frogs brought residents together.

The National Director of Red Frogs, Shannon Thompson, said it is a peer support organisation.

“Our mission is to safeguard a generation.

“We don't replace the RAs, resident leaders, or student leaders in any of those halls. What we do is we work with them to support them.”

The activities were part of a wider attempt to provide a secure and friendly environment where students can gather, socialise, and feel a sense of belonging.

Thompson said she believes the current generation in the university halls are "COVID kids."

LISTEN: Shannon Thompson discusses how students need the social environment of halls.

Student housing is expanding its role from just providing accommodation to supporting student wellbeing in broader ways.

Residential Life Coordinator Mandy Pope said living in student halls is a major transition, and it’s important to build connections.

“A lot of people who live in residential halls are from outside of Auckland, or even from different countries. It's important to have that kind of starting point to facilitate connection between residents," she said.

Pope said that although UniLodge is not a replacement for professional services, it makes a significant contribution to supporting students.

“We are not counsellors, but we can guide residents to the right support and be there for a chat when they need it.”

Residential advisor Nimish Maharaj, also an engineering student at AUT, said events like these provide a good space for students to connect.

“A lot of these free events help students interact with others when they normally wouldn’t get the chance. They’re often helpful for students going through mental health issues - it helps them open up.”

He said it may be difficult to establish an inclusive environment, especially among shy or hesitant residents.

Red Frogs Volunteer Amy said she was motivated to volunteer through her own experience as a student and wants to provide a safe space for connection.

"When I was a patron myself and having a really rough night, Red Frogs were the first to ask me if I was okay and what they could do to help me.

AUT student Sribhav Saha, who also resides at Unilodge said “It’s part of the deal - they are able to host these events because the rent is higher compared to other places.”

Maharaj added that it can be hard to come out of your comfort zone and build connections.

“Just be open and be yourself. You will always find your people when you are yourself,” he said.

As student accommodation continues to evolve, such events are becoming increasingly important in fostering connection and promoting wellbeing among residents.

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Our journalists sometimes use AI tools which are checked by humans for accuracy. 

AI was used to transcribe audio from the interview.