AI Changemaker of the Year – Sponsored by the British High Commission
Celebrates an individual or organisation driving meaningful, positive change through AI. This award recognises leadership, advocacy, and commitment to responsible and impactful AI adoption in Aotearoa.

                     Finalists: Geri Harris • Lee Wilson • SupaHuman Team                                                 

                     Winner:  Lee Wilson 

Outstanding AI Implementation – Sponsored by Enlighten Designs
Recognises the successful deployment of AI in a real-world setting. This award highlights impactful, practical applications that demonstrate measurable outcomes and innovation in implementation.

                      Finalists: ALMA Team at PHF Science • Team at Hutt City Council • Kiwa Digital Team     

                      Winner:  Kiwa Digital Team

Rising AI Star – Sponsored by Tompkins Wake
Spotlights an emerging individual who is making significant contributions to AI development or application. This award celebrates the next generation of AI talent in Aotearoa.

                        Finalists: Amir Mohammadi • Andrew Lensen • Blake Harkness • Susana Tomaz               

                        Winner:  Andrew Lensen 

Te Ao Māori & Pasifika AI – Sponsored by ANZ
Acknowledges individuals or initiatives championing AI solutions that support Māori and/or Pasifika communities. This award values culturally grounded, inclusive, and community-driven innovation.

                      Finalists: Shae Parsons • Shanelle Partridge • Kiwa Digital Team

                      Winner: Kiwa Digital Team

Trailblazer in AI Innovation – Sponsored by Spark
Recognises cutting-edge innovation in AI by individuals, startups, or organisations. This award is for those pushing boundaries, creating novel AI technologies, or pioneering new approaches.

                      Finalists: ALMA Team at PHF Science • Analytics GPT Team led by Indrajit Nandy • ElementX x Mott MacDonald Team

                      Winner: ALMA Team at PHF Science 

AI Research Pioneer – Sponsored by Artificial Researchers Association
Honours outstanding original research in artificial intelligence. This category is open to individuals or teams whose work advances AI knowledge, tools, or methodologies, and contributes significantly to the field.

                      Winner: David Rozado

Aotearoa AI Awards People’s Choice – Sponsored by Aware Group

This is the Supreme award of the year. The winners from each Award are celebrated throughout the day at the Aotearoa AI Summit 2025, on September 18, with the winner of the ‘Aotearoa AI People’s Choice Award’ being chosen by audience vote.

                       Winner: Kiwa Digital Team