University of Auckland approves Freedom of Expression Statement
11 December 2025
The University has taken an important step by approving its Freedom of Expression Statement following extensive engagement and consultation.
Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland has formally adopted its Freedom of Expression Statement, following approval by the University Council at its meeting on 10 December.
The statement outlines the University’s commitment to protecting and promoting freedom of expression and academic freedom, and reaffirms its role as a critic and conscience of society. It sets expectations for lawful, constructive and civil debate across the University and outlines the principle of institutional neutrality, which helps create an environment where conversations can freely take place.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Dawn Freshwater says the statement reflects extensive engagement and consultation with the University community.
“Freedom of expression and academic freedom are foundational to our role as a university. This statement provides clarity about our responsibilities and expectations as a community, and reaffirms our commitment to fostering an environment where diverse viewpoints can be expressed lawfully and constructively.”
The statement’s development involved an extended period of careful discussion and refinement through both a Senate working group and the Vice-Chancellor’s Advisory Group.
Professor Cathy Stinear, Pro Vice-Chancellor Equity and a member of the Advisory Group, says the work was challenging but rewarding for those involved.
“I’m particularly proud of the way we respectfully debated the issues and carefully balanced the tensions between free expression and caring for the diverse communities that make up our University.”
Freedom of expression and academic freedom are foundational to our role as a university.
Distinguished Professor Sir Peter Hunter, who chaired the Senate working group and led the development of the statement with support from Professor Nikki Harré and the Vice-Chancellor’s Advisory Group on Freedom of Expression, says the process was shaped by robust feedback.
“In my view, the process of finding common ground between many different points of view has been as important as the statement itself. Universities must demonstrate the ability to freely debate contentious issues.
“I would like to thank the members of the groups involved and the near unanimous endorsement from Senate.”
University of Auckland Freedom of Expression Statement
Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland fulfils a role as a critic and conscience of society through the protection and promotion of freedom of expression and academic freedom. Our university is a place where diverse cultures, identities, ethnicities and value systems contribute to research, teaching, and related activities. Respect for everyone’s right to express their views and a commitment to civil discourse are critical to our function. The University actively fosters and supports lawful and constructive debate by its staff and students on any topic, including with the participation of external speakers invited by a staff member, or a recognised student association or student club. The University may reasonably regulate the time, place, and manner of expression so that the ordinary activities of the University are not unduly disrupted.
The University, as an institution, will not take public positions on matters that do not directly concern university roles, functions or duties. Official University spokespeople may make public statements on matters directly related to university roles, functions or duties, including the wellbeing and safety of staff and students, financial and resource management, sustainability, equity, and university obligations related to Te Tiriti o Waitangi as laid out in the Education and Training Act 2020. Institutional neutrality is not a retreat from important conversations, but a commitment to creating an environment where such conversations can freely take place.
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