Darryl Stevens graduated from the University of Canterbury in 1980 with a degree in History and during his time at UC developed a passion for the Commonwealth. Moving to Wellington after graduating, Darryl has had an extensive career in leading roles in and around parliament and the New Zealand Government and has played a significant part in organising Guest of Government visits and major commemorations that included formally recognising Commonwealth Day and establishing and televising the ANZAC Day national Memorial Service.
As the current Chief Executive of the New Zealand Parliament Trust, Darryl now focuses on bridging the gap between parliament and the private sector through education initiatives for corporates on how government is exercised through Parliament and providing opportunities for placement of MPs in businesses. Through its charitable role, the Trust supports several educational initiatives involving both schools and universities.
Awarded the MNZM in 2013 for services to Youth and the Commonwealth, Darryl continues his passions as Wellington President and Director of the Royal Commonwealth Society including Commonwealth Youth NZ (Foundation Board member and Chair) and having previously served as RCS Regional Co-ordinator – Pacific from 2013 to 2019.