The vice-chancellor of Otago University says the sexual exploitation of people in social media is a world-wide epidemic, and not confined to her university.
A Facebook page supported by Otago students that hosted explicit photos of women without their consent has been taken down, but it continues to cause outrage.
Vice-chancellor Harlene Hayne said such behaviour would not be tolerated.
She said the case was a clear example of the objectification of women, and it was concerning it was done with a cavalier attitude by men attending her university.
Such abuse in social media is a world-wide occurrence that cannot be tolerated and those responsible could face a suspension, fee or permanent expulsion, she said.
One student is facing disciplinary action and the police said they would take action if any laws were broken.