Sir John Graham Lecture 2026

Something in our cultural moment has shifted. Across the globe, people feel disconnected. They’re unsure of where they belong, yet paradoxically more tribal. Education is shaped by ideology. Politics infuses every sphere. We struggle to disagree well.

So how might history ground us when it so often divides? At this year’s Sir John Graham Lecture, Dr Irving-Stonebraker explores what it means to steward history. She explains how recovering lost and overlooked stories can restore a sense of belonging and inheritance.

Join us as we explore how the past might heal our fractured present.

Maxim Institute warmly invites you to join us for dinner at this year's Sir John Graham Lecture

6pm Friday 17 July 2026 | The Pullman Hotel, Auckland CBD

TICKETS: $196 (single) | $170 (student) | $1,900 (table of 10)

All prices are GST inclusive

RSVP: Final day for tickets is Wednesday 8 July

DRESS CODE: Semi-formal

About the speaker

Dr Sarah Irving-Stonebraker is an Australian-based historian who specialises in British history and the intersection of religion, science, and politics. She received her PhD in History from Cambridge University and held a Junior Research Fellowship at Oxford University. Dr Irving-Stonebraker is the author of two books, Priests of History: Stewarding the Past in an Ahistoric Age and Natural Science and the Origins of the British Empire.

Sir John Graham

Sir John Graham was an exemplary New Zealander who displayed the character and care for others we see in our best leaders. Along with his well-known leadership roles as Captain of the All Blacks, Headmaster of Auckland Grammar, and Chancellor of the University of Auckland, Sir John inspired and led many organisations, including Maxim Institute.

He was recognised with a CBE in 1994 for services to education and the community and was knighted in 2011. As a Founding Trustee of Maxim, Sir John Graham’s deep love for New Zealand, his passion for education, and concern for those on the margins of life remain at the heart of our work. We are honoured to be able to hold this annual lecture in his name.

The annual Sir John Graham Lecture is one of our nation’s premier opportunities to hear thought-provoking insights and deepen public dialogue.

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