More of our Speakers

Speakers at U3A Howick meetings

Jan Beaumont

Poet

Jan Beaumont began writing poems during the Covid lockdown and has since written numerous humorous and poignant poems. She has published some books and been interviewed by the BBC about her poetry.

Professor Paul Moon ONZM

Historian

Professor Paul Moon is a NZ Historian and Professor at the Auckland University of Technology. He writes about NZ history and biography. His talk was entitled Nostalgia and Utopianism. He has authored a number of books.

Martin Butler

Pilot/Author

Martin Butler was a pilot for Air New Zealand and has been fascinated by what happened to the first two Boeing aircraft purchased in NZ in 1918. A century later he explored their potential current location following stories and urban myths. He has published his findings in a book.

Warren Yardley

Journalist/Teacher

Warren Yardley is a retired teacher and journalist, who has walked extensively through the centre of Auckland exploring all the hidden spaces and unknown history. He spoke about Walking the Streets of Auckland – it’s History, Geography and Mysteries.

Colonel Barry Dreyer

Vietnam Veteran

Barry Dreyer has worked with veterans for the last three decades and has been recognised for this with the defence Meritorious Medal. He was appointed as Colonel Commandant of the Royal Regiment of NZ Artillery in 2010. He spoke about: Experiences at the Front in Vietnam.

Ranjna Patel ONZM QSM JP

CEO/Social Entrepreneur

Ranjna Patel is the CEO of Tamaki Health, NZ’s largest primary care provider. She is also the Founder of the Gandhi Nivas Program, which provides early intervention and prevention services for men identified at risk of committing harm in the family. She sits in numerous advisory boards and has received many awards. She spoke about her journey to NZ and the Gandhi Nivas program.