The Honourable Dr ‘Ana Maui Taufe’ulungaki, a BA graduate of the University of Auckland, will receive one of six Distinguished Alumni Awards to be awarded by the Auckland University at a ceremony on Thursday 13, March 2014.

Dr Taufe’ulungaki, Tonga’s current minister of education, will be showcased in a candid, entertaining discussion led by alumnus and Qantas award winner Finlay Macdonald at the Maidment Theatre, a statement from the university says.

"Each award winner will talk about their work and lives in their own words at a glittering black-tie dinner in the Alumni marquee".

The Award this year will be presented to:

  • Bruce Aitken – former president and CEO of Vancouver-based Methanex Corporation
  • Gareth Farr ONZM – a leading composer and well-known performance artist
  • Dr Julie Maxton – Executive Director of the Royal Society, former Registrar at the University of Oxford
  • Dr William Tan PBM, BBM – neuroscientist, medical doctor, Paralympian and international speaker
  • Hon Dr 'Ana Maui Taufe'ulungaki – Minister for Education and Training in the Kingdom of Tonga
  • Roseanne Liang, Young Alumna of the Year – filmmaker, writer and director of the feature film My Wedding and Other Secrets.