Overview
Auckland University of Technology traces its roots back to 1895, when it began as a technical school, but formally became a university on 1 January 2000 when its predecessor institution, Auckland Institute of Technology (AIT), was granted university status. The university operates across multiple campuses in Auckland, New Zealand, and serves tens of thousands of students. AUT positions itself as a modern, practical university of technology — combining academic rigour with real-world application.
Mission and focus areas
AUT’s mission is to produce graduates the world needs, to discover and apply knowledge with purpose, and to work in partnership to accelerate its impact. The institution emphasises applied learning, industry engagement and societal relevance. On sustainability and ESG-aligned priorities, AUT embeds sustainability through its operations, teaching, research and partnerships. Its sustainability agenda aligns with global challenges and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Structure and governance
AUT is a public research university with a governance and leadership structure in line with New Zealand’s tertiary-education regulations. Its strategic direction is embodied in a guiding plan called Te Kete, which expresses AUT’s vision and values — derived from Māori principles — and outlines its strategic aims through to 2030. Sustainability governance is overseen via a dedicated Sustainability Steering Committee, which monitors progress against the university’s Sustainability Roadmap and Plan.
Programs and offerings
AUT offers a broad spectrum of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across fields including business, engineering, health, design, social sciences and more. In addition, it provides sustainability-focused courses — from environmental sustainability and sustainable enterprise to communication for social change and social justice. On the research front, AUT undertakes applied and interdisciplinary research addressing sustainability, climate adaptation, infrastructure sustainability and community wellbeing. The institution also publishes sustainability reports tracking its environmental footprint, waste and emissions reductions, and progress against targets. Through its combination of education, research, community partnerships and campus-wide sustainability initiatives, AUT aims to equip graduates and communities to contribute meaningfully to sustainable development and social impact.
