David Cunliffe (UWC Atlantic College, 1980-1982) is a New Zealand Member of Parliament, former Leader of the New Zealand Labour Party and Leader of the Opposition in New Zealand’s 2014 general election. He served as Minister of Health, Minister of Immigration and Minister of Information and Communication Technology in the Labour Government of Rt. Hon Helen Clark (1999-2008). In Opposition (2008-17) he has served as Spokesperson on Finance, Economic Development, Innovation, Tertiary Education and Disarmament. Prior to entering Parliament he was a New Zealand diplomat, a Fulbright Scholar at Harvard University and a management consultant with The Boston Consulting Group. He is the proud father of two teenage sons.  

David shared with us his memories of UWC and how that experience inspired him to a life of public service.

“Before UWC Atlantic College I was studying sciences and wanted to be a doctor, helping people one-on-one with their health care needs. At UWC AC I was inspired to help change the conditions that make kids sick.

UWC challenged my preconceptions and broadened my thinking. Realising that we had common values despite our diverse backgrounds and building lasting friendships that have lasted the distance.

The breadth and rigour of the IB and the challenge of my service (Inshore Lifeboats - ILBs) helped build resilience and confidence just as the Kurt Hahn, the co-founder of UWC and Outward Bound, had intended.

We worked hard and had fun: rugby with local teams; South Pacific mid-winter Christmas on St Donat’s beach; occasional ventures to Macross and Llantwit, and rocking the UWC AC Social Centre to the sound of a little-known band called Joy Division.

I left UWC Atlantic College inspired to a life of public service. I pursued that call through further study, diplomatic service and the later decision to seek social change through politics.”

Nearly 20 years as a constituency MP has left David convinced that the UWC values of internationalism, peace-building and diversity are more important than ever.

“Tolerance and diversity are challenged anew, from the horrors of the Middle East to reaction across Western democracies. The market orthodoxy of the post-oil-shock era has run aground on rocks of mounting inequality and disillusionment. When not enough of the gains of growth are shared, instability is the result. Media are awash in a tide of fake news. Our bedrock values of reason and evidence, the rule of law, of mutual understanding and human kindness seem more at risk than at any time I can remember.

At this time the ideals and experiences of UWC colleges are more relevant – indeed more necessary - than ever. Let’s celebrate the UWC experience and use it to help fit the next generation of leaders and influencers for the challenges that lie ahead.”