University stadium building rises from the dust

The University of Otago's building at the Forsyth Barr Stadium begins to take shape, in this photo taken from the corner of Anzac Ave and Union St east.

The Oamaru stone-clad building is expected to house a new Unipol student gymnasium and recreation centre, the Foundation Studies language centre and foundation-year programme, and a cafe for staff, students and the public.

The university has not released a tender price, claiming commercial sensitivity, though it has said the building may cost more than $40 million.

The building's exterior is expected to be finished by August, the internal fit-out by December, and there are plans for a second building to be built after the Rugby World Cup is over.