The Prime Minister today announced major changes to the New Zealand science sector.
NIWA’s CE John Morgan said, “We are very enthusiastic about the changes announced today and initial discussions at Chair and CEO level between NIWA and GNS are already underway.”
The changes follow Government consideration of the Science System Advisory Group’s (SSAG) first report. That group was charged with presenting a programme of change aimed at building a thriving science, innovation and technology system to position New Zealand for a prosperous future.
The key change is the formation of four Public Research Organisations (PRO), grouped by area of focus, as follows
- Earth sciences, including climate and hazard resilience: formed by bringing together NIWA and GNS Science.
- Bioeconomy: formed by bringing together AgResearch, Manaaki Whenua – Landcare Research, Plant & Food Research and Scion.
- Health and forensic science services: formed by re-purposing Environmental Science Research.
- The fourth Public Research Organisation will focus on advanced technology. It will deliver research, capability, and commercial outreach around advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, synthetic biology, advanced energy and quantum technology.
These changes are anticipated to be formulated throughout 2025 and take effect in 2026. NIWA and GNS Science will work collaboratively on the structure and functionality of the Earth Sciences PRO, with oversight from MBIE.
More information is available on the MBIE website: mbie.govt.nz/science-reforms
