Updated 5.23pm: A high tech crime team is helping Dunedin police investigate a threat to take a gun to Otago University.

LISTEN: Josie Cochrane, Editor of Otago University Magazine Critic, speaks to Larry Williams about the threat.

It's believed the image of a handgun popped up on a well known internet forum 4Chan.

The post pinpointed an upcoming day to bring the weapon to the university.

Police are currently investigating what was posted, and won't be drawn on whether it could be a hoax.

The post discouraged people from going to the university on the day involved.

Acting Area Commander Inspector Mel Aitken said police will be maintaining a high visible presence and are asking people to report any suspicious behaviour.

Officers, University and Campus Watch staff are being made available to speak with anyone who has concerns.

Inspector Aitken said they are checking the source and authenticity of the threat and are also aware of the possibility of copy cats.