Three hundred students are expected to take part in the long lunch on September 14 where flat occupants in Castle St, known in the past for its often out-of-control parties, will pull out tables and chairs to enjoy a two-hour lunch together.
Organiser Philippa Cochrane, of 620B Castle St, said the lunch was not about having a party. It was to enjoy the afternoon as a student community and raise awareness of a good cause.
''We are definitely not promoting alcohol at all, but it is fine to bring a drink along for lunch,'' she said.
''It's about the Castle St family coming together.''
Miss Cochrane had applied to the Dunedin City Council for a two-hour street closure and had discussed her plans with university proctor Simon Thompson.
Mr Thompson was positive about the event and had given Miss Cochrane some advice this week, a university spokeswoman said.
Miss Cochrane said she would visit each flat in the street and a toss of the coin would decide the budget for the meal. Heads, the flatmates could spend whatever amount they chose; tails, only $2.25 per person could be spent.
The $2.25 was what many would live on during World Vision's Live Below the Line five-day challenge, which starts on September 23.
''It's a famine or a feast.''
Miss Cochrane hoped some of those taking part in the long lunch would take part in the challenge.
