A cautious approach is urged to addressing contentious student flat initiations.

There's been reports hazings have included animal cruelty- and the Otago Daily Times says some female students were forced to strip to underwear, body-shamed and called 'piggies'.

Otago University Student Association president Quintin Jane says this kind of behaviour is unacceptable.

He says people harming others or potentially committing criminal acts need to face consequences.

"But also, I think it's worth being conscious that the university aren't our parents and they should stay out of our flats. These are adults involved, and we just need to make sure that there are appropriate processes followed."

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