Mr Davies graduated with a BSc (Hons) degree in chemistry at a Regent Theatre ceremony at 4pm on Saturday and next year will continue his studies for a PhD.
After two years as a member of the Ravensbourne Volunteer Fire Brigade, he enjoys the company of his fellow firefighters, who have to rely on each other in emergencies.
"It's great. The people, they are absolutely amazing and very friendly."
After buying a house at Ravensbourne in late 2009, he heard the nearby fire siren as he was unlocking the front door.
It felt good to know there was a brigade in the area and he soon rang up to volunteer.
To celebrate his graduation on Saturday, fellow firefighters brought the Ravensbourne fire appliance down to the university campus.
The knowledge of chemical hazards he has gained from his studies may prove helpful should his brigade be called to an emergency involving hazardous substances.
Next year, Mr Davies will also help teach a fourth-year "management of chemical hazards" paper at the university.
• Five doctoral graduands from the Otago School of Physical Education - Rebekah Scott, Chris Harvey, John Maxted, Nalani Wilson-Hokowhitu and Allen Hill - also graduated on Saturday.
This was the largest number of doctoral graduands to graduate from the school in person at a single ceremony.
Dr Anne-Marie Jackson, who was recently appointed as a school lecturer in Maori physical education and health, also graduated with a sixth Otago physical education doctorate earlier last week.
