Outstanding Alumni

Celebrating alumni who have made a great difference to the world and stand as shining examples of our community.

We are proud of how our graduates have excelled in a multitude of areas through a wide range of achievements. Check out some of our notable alumni, including Lianne Dalziel and Sir John Key.

Whether they graduated in Arts, Engineering, Law, or Product Design our young UC alumni have left a trail of success stories. See what they studied are how they're making a difference in the world today. 

UC awards Honorary Doctorates to people in our wider national and international community who have made outstanding contributions in their field. These are people who have substantially contributed to the well-being and betterment of society, or to cultural development and understanding.

From Eleanor Catton's Booker prize winning 'The Luminaries', to Paul Ewen's "Francis Plug: How To Be A Public Author", UC alumni have authored books from a wide variety of genres and fields, reflecting the diverse learning experiences and expertise of our community.

Have you published a book? We welcome all submissions for consideration to be added to our online catalogue.

Since 1931, when Ernest, Lord Rutherford received Canterbury College’s first Honorary Doctorate, the University of Canterbury has conferred 120 of these awards. Sixty-one of these were given before the year 2000.

Ambassadors work to support events and develop connections with local alumni and those new to their area.

Find your local alumni ambassador or get in touch if you'd like to volunteer.

UC graduates are part of a worldwide network of over 155,000 alumni! Have you moved recently? Update your details if you need to so we can invite you to alumni events in your area.

Haven’t heard from us in a while? Update your details so you receive event invites, UC news, alumni updates and more.

The University of Canterbury Young Alumni Awards acknowledge the exceptional accomplishments of our graduates and celebrate the remarkable contributions they have made to their profession, community, or chosen field of expertise. Find out more about the Young Alumni awards.

Stay connected with the University of Canterbury and your alumni community.

We'd love for you to join us at our regular alumni events in New Zealand and abroad. See what's on!