Concepts selected for AI Research Platform

Strengthening New Zealand's research capability and commercialisation in AI is the second activity of the New Zealand Institute for Advanced Technology. The platform will accelerate AI innovation, strengthen global and domestic partnerships, and drive the growth of high-tech businesses that boost New Zealand's economy. It is expected to be established in July 2026 and is backed by government investment of up to $70 million over 7 years.

Establishing the AI research platform is a 2-stage process. Phase 1 was an open contest, which saw over 100 concepts submitted for consideration. Phase 2 is a closed contest that will see the Institute select from more detailed proposals to determine the final shape.

It is intended that only 1 proposal will be funded, but the Institute reserves the right to support more than 1 proposal or no proposals based on proposals submitted.

The concepts selected offer a strong mix of sector leadership and applications. They span universities, Public Research Organisations, and industry, covering areas including infrastructure, healthcare, robotics, primary industries, creative industries and aerospace among others.

Concepts selected for further development are:

• The "Aotearoa Agentic AI Platform: A Productivity Multiplier", led by the University of Auckland: This proposes developing next-generation AI assistants ('agents') that learn and maintain themselves, with large-scale simulations to test reliability, efficiency, and alignment with New Zealand values.
• The "Aotearoa Creative AI Research Institute", led by Wētā FX: This proposes positioning New Zealand at the forefront of AI research, developing breakthroughs in computer vision and imaging, complex data models, digital twins, and AI rights management with creative and real-world application.
• The "Aotearoa Institute for Autonomous Intelligence: AI Autonomy at the Edge", led by Earth Sciences New Zealand and Victoria University of Wellington: This proposes creating a global testbed for advanced AI and autonomous systems, driving innovation in the aerospace and marine sectors, and unlocking solutions for agriculture, logistics, energy, and environmental monitoring.
• The "BioAI Platform: Accelerating Export-led Growth from New Zealand's Bioeconomy", led by the Bioeconomy Science Institute: This proposes harnessing AI and bioscience to drive practical innovation in agriculture, aquaculture, and forestry, tackling challenges like pest threats and climate resilience, and propelling export growth.
• A platform focused on Physical AI / AI for Real World Systems that draws on the joint strengths of concepts from the University of Waikato and University of Canterbury. Their concepts focus on building intelligent systems that can sense, learn and act outdoors, delivering AI that can cope with uncertainty and work in environments - such as farms, forests, coasts, hospitals, manufacturing and businesses - where today's AI often struggles.

This month, Science Innovation and Technology Minister Dr Shane Reti also appointed the New Zealand Institute for Advanced Technology's inaugural board.

Steve O'Connor will serve as Establishment Chair for 6 months to ensure strong governance and flexibility during the early establishment phase. He will be supported by board members Professor Cather Simpson, Professor Greg O'Grady, and Arama Kukutai, who contribute extensive expertise in governance, entrepreneurship, and innovation.

With the Board in place and activity underway to support future magnet and materials technology, AI and quantum technology research, the Institute is making swift progress to position New Zealand for long-term success in advanced technology and innovation.

Read more about the funded concepts and AI research platform development.

Artificial Intelligence Research Platform

Read more about New Zealand Institute for Advanced Technology Board appointments.

New Zealand Institute for Advanced Technology board

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