New Auckland-based Advanced Technology Institute to focus on AI and synthetic biology

NEWS - eHealthNews.nz editor Rebecca McBeth 

A new research institute focused on commercialising emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, and synthetic biology will be housed in Auckland under a ‘hub and spoke model’, science, innovation and technology Minister Shane Reti says.

Speaking at the TUANZ and DHA Tech Users Summit 2025 in Auckland on September 10, Reti said the  government is investing $231 million in the Advanced Technology Institute over four years.

Its creation is part of broader science system reforms that have already consolidated seven Crown Research Institutes into three Public Research Organisations (PROs), with this as the fourth.

"The purpose is to back science and tech that can shape New Zealand's future industries, build science and grow talent in emerging technologies and to drive economic growth by turning innovation into real world products and businesses," Reti told the summit.

The institute will operate under a hub and spoke model with its headquarters in Auckland. The first spoke has already been announced, partnering with Robinson's Research Institute, with $70 million over seven years supporting cryogenic superconducting, materials and magnet physics.

The three existing PROs are the Bioeconomy Science Institute, which combines AgResearch, Landcare, Scion and Plant and Food; Earth Sciences New Zealand, incorporating GNS, NIWA and soon MetService; and the New Zealand Institute for Public Health and Forensic Science, formerly ESR.

Reti described the amalgamation process as a success and that, unlike other government restructures, the Crown research institutes were "willing actors" who could see the benefits of collaboration.

The minister told the Tech Users Summit that all public research organisations depend on fast and efficient digital infrastructure, and this requirement is particularly crucial for the new Advanced Technology Institute.

He said recent funding announcements show the Government's commitment to technology and digital innovation, including $183 million in the latest Endeavour Fund round.

"Many if not most of the 19 multi-year multi-million dollar projects I announced will also use AI and all are deeply dependent on technology and digital infrastructure," Reti told the audience.

One of these projects is looking at creating a rapid, low-cost diagnostic platform for multiple uses including early detection of diseases like Alzheimer’s and multi-drug screening for workplaces and roadside testing. 

The Endeavour Fund has also approved funding for 47 Smart Ideas with five related to health technology. 

These include; cardiac point-of-care diagnostics; 3D-printed Bioscaffolds for directional neurite outgrowth after spinal cord injury; innovative pressure-sensing technology for medtech smart wearables; networking implantable medical devices; and a novel electrochemical sensor platform for measuring toxic iron in serum.

Reti said the New Zealand's first artificial intelligence strategy signals New Zealand’s readiness to harness AI opportunities with a proportionate, risk-based regulatory approach. 

"Regulating AI based on hypothetical uses or harms, risks overregulation and can stifle innovation. We believe that regulation should enable, not inhibit," he said.

"Science, technology and the digital world is currently a highlight area of intellectual endeavour and economic growth for me and I invite you all to buckle in for what is going to be a heck of a ride.”

Image: Science, innovation and technology Minister Shane Reti Speaking at the TUANZ and DHA Tech Users Summit 2025

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