What we do
We have something for everyone – whether you’re a beginner debater, a competitive debater, or simply wanting to make some friends and find out more about the world. We meet every Thursday night at 6 pm in Grafton Campus 507-G080. You can participate in our internal debating tournament, watch some of our finest debaters in action, learn how to judge debates, or brush up on your debating skills by attending our coaching sessions. We also run seminars before the Law 121 essay and exam and the Law 131 and Law 141 exams.
Debsoc is also a very social club! We regularly host events such as the Pub Quiz and Comedy Backwards Debate, as well as our Opening Night Party and of course, Thropy (the weekend-long debating tournament/party).
Our members are always up for a chat about anything and everything. We also have a great profile on campus, with a host of different public debates. Past celebrity participants include MP Shane Jones and retired Supreme Court Judge Sir Edmund ‘Ted’ Thomas. But first and foremost, we’re a debating club.
We send speakers to a huge number of tournaments, both amateur and competitive, throughout New Zealand and the rest of the world. We are always competitive domestically, and are forging an ever-stronger presence on the international stage as well.
Johnathan Hunt, Patron
The Right Honourable Jonathan Hunt, ONZ has been the Debating Society’s patron since 2009
Jonathan is an alumnus of our university and was an active member in the Debating Society during his years as a student. Our minute books make frequent reference to his attendance, including his selection onto a Joynt Scroll team.
Known as ‘father of the House’, Jonathan was the longest-serving Member of Parliament until he resigned in March 2005 to take up positions as New Zealand High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, and Ambassador to Ireland.
During his time in Parliament, Jonathan served as Whip, Deputy Speaker and was a Minister in the Fourth Labour Government. Jonathan also instigated of the Adult Adoption Information Act of 1985. He was unanimously elected Speaker in December 1999, and returned to the position in 2002.
Jonathan was appointed to the Order of New Zealand for services to Parliament in the New Year Honours List 2005. He then received a Distinguished Alumni Award from the University of Auckland in 2006.
A special thanks to our sponsors
The University of Auckland Debating Society could not run without the generous help of our sponsors:
University of Auckland Debating Society 