Five leading artificial intelligence concepts have been shortlisted in New Zealand’s effort to establish a world-class national research platform, Minister of Science, Innovation and Technology Shane Reti announced today. This initiative is backed by the Institute for Advanced Technology and aims to secure up to $70 million over a span of seven years to accelerate AI innovation and enhance both global and domestic partnerships.
“By embracing AI as a catalyst for sustainable growth, national competitiveness, and long-term prosperity, New Zealand can lead, not follow, in the global digital economy,” Reti stated. He emphasized that the selected concepts represent a diverse blend of leadership and application across various sectors, including academia, Public Research Organisations, and industry.
The five shortlisted concepts encompass critical sectors such as infrastructure, healthcare, robotics, primary industries, creative industries, and aerospace. “Their selection is an exciting first step to significantly lift our AI capabilities, fast-track commercialization, and create new opportunities for New Zealanders,” Reti added.
The selected concepts include the Aotearoa Agentic AI Platform, led by the University of Auckland, which focuses on developing next-generation AI assistants that align with New Zealand values. Another concept, the Aotearoa Creative AI Research Institute, is spearheaded by Wētā FX and aims to position New Zealand at the forefront of AI research within the creative sector.
Additionally, the Aotearoa Institute for Autonomous Intelligence, led by Earth Sciences New Zealand in partnership with Victoria University of Wellington, is set to develop AI and autonomous systems tailored for aerospace, marine, and primary industries. The BioAI Platform, under the guidance of the Bioeconomy Science Institute, plans to leverage AI to enhance productivity and export growth across agriculture, aquaculture, and forestry. Lastly, the Physical AI for Real-World Systems concept combines expertise from the University of Waikato and the University of Canterbury to create AI solutions for complex outdoor and industrial environments.
Each selected concept will receive $250,000 to formulate a detailed proposal for further evaluation. The final platform is expected to be confirmed in the first half of 2026, with funding anticipated to begin in July of that year.
In addition to announcing the shortlisted concepts, Dr. Reti introduced the inaugural Institute for Advanced Technology Board, which has been appointed to shape the future of advanced technology research in New Zealand. Steve O’Connor will serve as the Establishment Chair for six months, ensuring robust governance during the crucial early phases of establishment. He will be joined by board members Professor Cather Simpson, Professor Greg O’Grady, and Arama Kukutai, each bringing substantial expertise in governance, entrepreneurship, and innovation.
“The establishment of the Institute for Advanced Technology is an important step in our science reforms, which are about fixing the basics and building the science system New Zealand needs in the future,” Reti remarked. He noted that as momentum builds across AI, quantum, and materials technologies, the groundwork is being laid for sustained economic growth driven by innovation.
The initiative reflects New Zealand’s broader ambition to harness the transformative potential of AI, positioning the nation as a leader in the global digital landscape. By investing in these pioneering concepts and establishing a dedicated governance structure, New Zealand aims to not only enhance its competitive edge but also ensure long-term benefits for its citizens through the growth of high-tech industries.
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