He's the first Kennedy to speak publicly in New Zealand and one of the most influential speakers on the environmental circuit.

On December 16 Robert F. Kennedy Jnr will address a select audience at the Hyatt Regency in Auckland as the keynote speaker at 'An Evening with Robert F. Kennedy Jnr'.

Kennedy has dedicated his life to environmental causes and human rights issues and was named as one of Time Magazine's 'heroes for the planet' in recognition of his role in the restoration of the Hudson River.

Trained as a lawyer, the nephew of President John F. Kennedy and son of Senator Robert F. Kennedy, Bobby was the chief prosecuting attorney for the Hudson Riverkeeper and former Assistant District Attorney in New York City.

He is also Clinical Professor and Supervising Attorney at Pace University's Environmental Litigation Clinic and has worked on several political campaigns including those of Al Gore in 2000 and John Kerry in 2004.

Kennedy wrote a detailed account of the alleged voting discrepancies in the wake of the 2004 US election commenting on the "mounting evidence that Republicans employed broad, methodical and illegal tactics".

In recent years he has dedicated himself to the fight for the environment and everyone's right to clean water and air by taking on the big corporate polluters and holding them accountable for their actions.

This unique evening includes a keynote speech by Kennedy, who will talk candidly about his resolute defence of the environment, and an introduction from former New Zealand Prime Minister the Rt Hon Mike Moore.

"Bobby is an outstanding speaker and rates amongst the best in the world alongside Bill Clinton and Bob Geldof," says Moore.

As founder of 'School Aid: Global Partnerships through Schools' and former Director General of the World Trade Organisation, Moore is one of the leading advocates of a globalised world that will spread prosperity and lift millions out of poverty. Moore is a sought-after speaker and writer and is widely regarded as one of the most powerful voices in the debate about the future of globalisation.

"This event is an opportunity to hear from someone who is at the forefront of some of the biggest environmental battles. It's also a chance to support a homegrown initiative which ensures children everywhere have the right to an education."

Moore will introduce guests to his School Aid concept - an investment fund being established that will be overseen by New Zealand school children with the dividends going to aid schools in developing countries.

"It will teach kiwi kids about investments and markets and about the lives of their counterparts in poor countries. They will be able to assist schools in developing countries so everyone wins and learns," Moore says.

AUT University is now working with Moore to develop the concept for rollout through secondary schools in New Zealand.

AUT Vice-Chancellor Derek McCormack says School Aid had immediate appeal for the university. "AUT is very pleased to be associated with this concept. We work with secondary schools to run a number of highly successful programmes that focus on social transformation through education, and we look forward to helping School Aid get a solid start here in New Zealand."

During the evening's exquisite 3 course meal Moore will be launching School Aid: Global Partnerships through Schools and will lead the charity auction for it later in the evening. All proceeds from the evening will go towards the first NZ School to participate in School Aid, which will be Dilworth School. Monies raised will top up Mike Moore's initial personal donation.

AUT University is proud to be the presenting sponsor of this unique event in partnership with Gold Sponsors HSBC, Air NZ, TVNZ, RadioLIVE, Yealands Estate, Interbrand and Soar Printing as well as Host Sponsor Hyatt Regency Auckland.

At 'An Evening with Robert F. Kennedy Jnr' you will be inspired and uplifted by one of the world's most visionary environmental business leaders and advocates. Reward yourself, clients and friends this Christmas by hosting your own table at 'An Evening with Robert F. Kennedy Jnr' which includes a sumptuous 3 course dinner and fine wines.