Frigid temperatures kept things cool for the crowds of fancy-dressed party-goers, although many chose to shelter inside student flats rather than brave the chilly conditions.
Castle St resident Sam Teppett, a law and politics undergraduate, said he had "kicked off"their flat festivities at about 10am.
"Mate, she's been nippy all right. We've had snow, sleet, rain, and sun. We're still partying though," he shouted.
Neighbouring Castle St resident Sarah Grogan, of Palmerston North, said she thought the "freezing" weather had "definitely" kept people away compared with last year.
University Campus Watch security patrols watched the student festivities from a distance when the Otago Daily Times visited, while police patrols also checked in on Castle St throughout the afternoon and evening.
