The New Zealand government is making a $231 million investment to establish the New Zealand Institute for Advanced Technology (NZIAT).
The funding, to be allocated over the next four years, was announced by Prime Minister Christopher Luxon together with Shane Reti, Minister of Science, Innovation and Technology, at Earth Sciences NZ in central Auckland.
“This is the fourth of our institutes and our cornerstone of our government’s plan to build a high-tech, high-value economy, one that delivers long-term prosperity for all New Zealanders,” Luxon said.
“I expect it to be forward-looking, with the support and advice of the Science Advisory Council, to invest in new areas of science that are reshaping the global economy, where we can develop excellent talent, create high-paying jobs, build new sectors, and increase our export earnings.”
In a media release, Reti said the NZIAT will play a leading role in translating world-class scientific research into commercial achievements.
“The Institute will focus on breakthrough technologies like AI, quantum computing, and synthetic biology – fields with the potential to transform industries, grow exports, and lift New Zealand’s global competitiveness,” Reti stated.
He said the multi-million fund will be used to support science and technology initiatives that empower industries capable of defining New Zealand’s future, nurture skills and expand expertise in emerging and high-potential technologies, and bring new technologies to market as viable businesses and products.
The Auckland-based institute will be backed by a dedicated network of research centres, collaborating closely with universities, industries, and established institutions.
Prime Minister Luxon expressed strong confidence that there will be enough scientists available to staff the institute.
“We have the smartest, best people in the world, period. And actually, if we can apply and use our science in a way that actually powers up our future growth and innovation, that’s what’s going to create the high-paying jobs for future New Zealanders, our kids and our grandkids, which is pretty exciting,” Luxon said.
He challenged claims that New Zealand is trailing other countries in business adoption of artificial intelligence but acknowledged that the government could increase its own use of the technology.
“I think this has got the power to transform the government to make it much more streamlined, more focused, and more customer-centric, delivering for Kiwis as a result.”
The initial flagship investment was announced in May and is centred at Wellington’s Robinson Research Institute, which focuses on future magnetic and materials technologies.
Further investments will be determined based on recommendations from the Prime Minister’s Science, Innovation and Technology Advisory Council.