Established in 1878 at the heart of New Zealand’s largest city, The University of Auckland has played a central role in the life of this country for 125 years. From the novels of Albert Wendt to the histories of Ann Salmond, from the Fale Pasifika to the new Business School, from yacht design to children’s health, the University has exemplified the innovation, creativity, diversity, and community spirit of New Zealand.

This richly illustrated book introduces readers to the past and present of the University of Auckland. It tells the story of the growth of the university, from a few students in rented buildings to almost 40,000 students spread across five campuses today. And the book examines the central features of life at the University in the twenty-first century: the drive for world-class research across the faculties, the diversity of the student body, the strength of creative arts like painting and literature, and the impact of University of Auckland staff and students on the life of the nation.