Thanks for being a part of the
Aotearoa AI Summit Kia whakapuāwai | Agents of Change, Powered by Curiosity
Stay tuned for details for 2027

The Aotearoa AI Summit 2026 brought together New Zealand’s AI community for two days of practical discussion, global perspectives and valuable connections in Wellington.

Held at Tākina Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre on 8–9 September, the Summit explored how Aotearoa can turn AI ambition into meaningful, responsible and enduring impact.

Highlights included conversations on the infrastructure, investment and capability needed to strengthen New Zealand’s digital independence; the trust, social licence and public acceptance required for AI to succeed; and the workforce transformation needed to lift productivity through better human–AI collaboration.

Speakers and panellists also examined what is next at the frontier of AI — including agentic systems, robotics and quantum computing — alongside the real-world decisions that determine whether AI strategies translate into successful implementation. Discussions covered choosing the right use cases, strengthening data foundations, and designing AI for people, privacy and inclusion.

A consistent message emerged: New Zealand has the talent, curiosity and opportunity to shape an AI-enabled future that works for people, businesses and communities. But real progress will depend on trusted infrastructure, practical adoption, responsible design and collaboration across industry, government and research.

Thank you to all speakers, attendees, moderators, partners and sponsors who contributed to the conversation.

Created by AI Forum New Zealand and Tech New Zealand, the Aotearoa AI Summit brought together business leaders, researchers, policymakers, innovators, investors, founders and AI professionals committed to advancing the future of AI in Aotearoa.