Students at Canterbury University want assurances that proper checks and balances are done on those who manage their accommodation blocks.
Police located ammunition and weapons in one room at Tupuānuku Hall on Thursday morning, after receiving calls that a man had suggested he wanted to harm himself.
A 20-year-old student at the address was taken into custody and transported to hospital to be assessed for treatment.
He was charged with possession of an offensive weapon, a pocketknife, and unlawful possession of a restricted weapon, a baton.
Known for being pro-firearms, the man was a residential adviser in the hostel, which is run by the Australian company, UniLodge.
He is due to appear in the Christchurch District Court tomorrow.
One student, who did not want to be identified, questioned whether anyone checked the history of the accused.
“He clearly has some very strong views on the 2019 gun reforms and these were not taken into account when offering him the position of a residential adviser," the person told 1News.
Student president representative Ethan Cirone said the situation had created “worry and panic” among the student body.
“I think it's a lack of oversight from UniLodge, the company that is supposed to be responsible for running everything that goes on here," he said.
“I think it should be brought up instead of just covering it up like they are trying to do. I think prospective students should know the risks and weigh the pros and cons before selecting where to live."
Canterbury University Student Association president Pierce Crowley said, while safety concerns appear to be low in this case, there is high awareness of the incident amongst students.
“As we look to the future, students will need assurances from the providers of the University Halls around the systems in place to ensure this will not happen again. My thoughts are with all those who have been impacted.”
He said the association’s first priority is mental health support for students impacted.
“We are independent of the university and are available to assist with special considerations or any other academic issues that have arisen. Further, if students wish to raise concerns, they should contact the UCSA,” Crowley said.
UniLodge did not respond to requests for comment.
A spokesperson for Canterbury University said student and staff safety is important and it's taking the matter “very seriously”.
“UniLodge, which manages the hall of residence, has been supporting those directly affected by Thursday’s incident," they said.
“UC offers numerous student support services, and we encourage any student who needs support to make contact. Students who feel their assessment performance has been affected can apply for special consideration."
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