AUT Alumni Awards
What AUT graduates do next matters. The AUT Alumni Awards recognise graduates whose work has made an outstanding and lasting contribution to their professions, communities and the wider world.
These aren't just high achievers. They're people who push knowledge forward, strengthen the communities around them and create impact that goes well beyond themselves.
The inaugural AUT Alumni Awards are open for nominations in 2026.
What the AUT Alumni Awards recognise
Excellence takes many forms. Outstanding research. Community leadership that changes lives quietly and consistently. Innovation that shifts an industry. Aronui impact that reaches further than anyone expected. The AUT Alumni Awards recognise all of it – and acknowledge that the most significant contributions aren't always the most visible ones.
Recipients across all categories are people who demonstrate pono, tika and aroha in how they work and what they stand for.
Nominations now open
Nominations are open for the inaugural AUT Alumni Awards. We invite nominations for graduates whose work demonstrates excellence, leadership and meaningful impact.
- Nominations close: 31 August 2026
- How to nominate: Complete the online nomination form
- Who can nominate: Open to all, including self-nominations
Award categories
- Outstanding Alumni Award
- Community Leadership Award
- Young Alumni Achievement Award
- Aronui Impact Award
- Technology and Innovation Award
Full details on each category, including criteria and eligibility, are in the awards handbook.
Selection process
Nominating someone is an act of recognition in itself. Here's how the process works:
- Submit a nomination online
- Nominations reviewed by an assessment panel
- Finalists selected and notified
- Recipients celebrated at the AUT Alumni Awards dinner in November
Recipients joining from outside Auckland, including internationally, may be supported to attend.
Recognition carries weight
These awards acknowledge work that has shaped industries, influenced communities and contributed to meaningful change. In recognising this year's recipients, we honour the impact they've made and ensure it becomes part of AUT's story.
Contact us
Questions about the AUT Alumni Awards? Get in touch by emailing alumni@aut.ac.nz
Explore all AUT awards
From students and staff to graduates and honorary recipients – this is where AUT recognises the people whose work makes a difference.
