Latest news with #PeterGluckman
Scoop
14-07-2025
- Business
- Scoop
New Leadership Group To Drive Auckland's Innovation Future
Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown today announced the appointment of a high-calibre Leadership Group to steer the Auckland Innovation & Technology Alliance, accelerating the city's ambition to become a globally competitive innovation and technology hub. The announcement follows the Auckland Innovation Forum in May, attended by over 130 tech and innovation leaders, where participants called for stronger alignment and collaboration across the region. 'We've got the ideas. We've got the talent. What we've lacked is coordination and a city that truly enables innovation to scale,' said Mayor Brown. 'This group is here to fix that – backing innovation that delivers real results for Auckland and lifts the whole country.' 'When I launched the Alliance, I made it clear—this isn't another talk shop,' he added. 'It's a delivery-focused team of proven Auckland leaders who know how to cut through and get things done. 'This is not about any of us – me included. This is about Auckland,' said Mayor Brown. A purpose-led Alliance The Alliance has been established to provide strategic leadership, foster collaboration across the ecosystem, and unlock greater investment. It will consider key issues such as: Strategic direction and priority setting Ecosystem and precinct development Capital access Talent and technology readiness International visibility and partnerships These areas will be developed with frontline innovators and technologists working in Auckland to ensure relevance and real-world impact. The Alliance will operate under a set of guiding principles – including agility, ambition, and shared purpose – to stay action-orientated and open to new ideas. Leadership Group The Alliance's Leadership Group brings together some of Auckland's most respected institutions of business, research, investment, and public innovation led by the mayor: Auckland Tech Council: Simon Bridges, Founder Universities: Professor Dawn Freshwater, Vice-Chancellor, University of Auckland Prime Minister's Science, Innovation & Technology Council: Sir Peter Gluckman ONZ KNZM FRSNZ FRS, Director, Koi Tū: The Centre for Informed Futures Spark NZ: Jolie Hodson MNZM, CEO NZ Tech: Graeme Muller, CEO Outset Ventures: Mat Rowe, Co-Founder & Executive Director AcademyEX: Frances Valintine CNZM, Founder and Director The group will meet formally for the first time in August. Early priorities to be considered will include: Leading a new Auckland Innovation & Technology Direction Developing a city-wide framework for innovation precincts Championing an Auckland Techweek 2026 as a regional flagship event to showcase Auckland success stories Building a national innovation engine Internationally respected science and policy leader Sir Peter Gluckman said, 'If we want to build a future-ready economy, we must ensure Auckland's innovation system is better aligned, better resourced, and globally connected. Cities are the primary units of innovation internationally.' Leading New Zealand futurist and technologist Frances Valintine added, 'This is a chance to advance key innovations and accelerate the priorities that will define our economy, our communities, and support future generations.' With nearly 40% of New Zealand's economy centred in Auckland, the city's innovation performance has major national implications. While there are signs of momentum, Auckland continues to lag global peers on productivity, commercialisation, and scaling innovation. 'A more innovative Auckland isn't just good for Auckland,' said Mayor Brown. 'It's one of the fastest ways to lift the performance of the entire country.'
Scoop
06-05-2025
- Business
- Scoop
PM's Science Council To Set Direction For Science
Press Release – New Zealand Government This Council is a new initiative to get clear, independent advice to ensure our investments in science and technology are delivering real outcomes for New Zealanders, says Prime Minister Christopher Luxon. Prime Minister Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has today announced the new Prime Minister's Chief Science Advisor, and the members of the Prime Minister's Science and Technology Advisory Council. 'We have world-class scientists in our universities and research institutes, but they're working in a system held back by outdated settings. To unlock the full potential of science and technology, we need a sharper focus on commercialisation, better access to global investment, and clearer priorities at home,' Mr Luxon says. 'This Council is a new initiative to get clear, independent advice to ensure our investments in science and technology are delivering real outcomes for New Zealanders. 'The Council will provide advice on long-term priorities for government-funded science and innovation. They will help identify areas of focus that will have the greatest benefit for Kiwis and our economy. 'I also expect them to provide bold and courageous advice about those areas that aren't delivering value for New Zealanders and may need to be deprioritised. It's about making sure we are investing in what will have the greatest impact for New Zealanders.' Members of the Council bring a strong mix of scientific, commercial and strategic expertise. They include: Sir Peter Gluckman Craig Piggott Professor Merryn Tawhai Komal Mistry-Mehta Malcolm Johns Dr John Roche 'I am also pleased to announce that Dr John Roche has been appointed as the Prime Minister's Chief Science Advisor. In this role, John will support robust decision making by providing high quality, independent scientific advice. John, in his capacity as my science advisor, will also be a member of the council.' Minister for Science, Innovation and Technology, Hon Dr Shane Reti, will chair the Council, with Dr John Roche as deputy chair. 'These are highly capable individuals who understand both the science and the economic imperatives. They are prepared to make the bold calls needed to ensure the system is future-focused, outcome-driven and aligned with our economic goals,' Mr Luxon says. 'A strong, well-directed science and innovation sector is critical to lifting productivity, creating high-value jobs and supporting a more resilient and competitive economy.' The Council will provide its first formal advice to the Prime Minister and Minister Reti later this year. Biographies of Council members: Sir Peter Gluckman Professor Sir Peter Gluckman ONZ KNZM FRSNZ FMedSci FRS trained as a paediatrician and biomedical scientist. He is Director of Koi Tu- Centre for Informed Futures and holds a Distinguished University Professorship at the University of Auckland. He is currently the chair of the Science System Advisory Group. Sir Peter is President of the International Science Council (ISC, 2021-2026). From 2014-2021 he was the inaugural Chair of the International Network of Government Science Advice (INGSA), and from 2009-2018 he was the first Chief Science Advisor to the Prime Minister of New Zealand. He was also Science Envoy for the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and coordinated the secretariat of the Small Advanced Economies Initiative. He has written and spoken extensively on science-policy and science-diplomacy and science-society interactions. He has received the highest scientific and civilian honours in New Zealand and numerous international scientific awards. Craig Piggott Craig Piggott is the founder of Halter. The company's solar-powered collar for dairy and beef cows, pairs with an app for farmers and allows cows to respond to guidance cues, enabling virtual herding and fencing while monitoring health 24/7. This innovation helps farmers increase milk and protein production propelling the company to become one of New Zealand's fastest-growing businesses with a thriving international customer base. Craig brings experience in innovation, agriculture and business. Merryn Tawhai Merryn Tawhai graduated from the University of Auckland with a PhD in Engineering Science in 2001. She leads a research programme at the Auckland Bioengineering Institute (ABI) in applied computational physiology of the respiratory system. Merryn is the Director of the ABI and sits on the Board of Directors for Cure Kids Ventures and the Virtual Physiological Human Institute. She was ABI's Deputy Director for 10 years, Director of the Medical Technologies Centre of Research Excellence (MedTech CoRE), and an independent Director for Izon Science. Merryn was awarded the 2016 MacDiarmid Medal by the Royal Society of New Zealand (RSNZ) Te Apārangi, is a Fellow of the RSNZ, a Fellow of IAMBE and AIMBE, and an elected member of the Fleischner Society. Komal Mistry-Mehta Komal is Chief Innovation & Brand Officer at Fonterra and Managing Director of the Ki Tua Fund, Fonterra's corporate venture capital arm. She leads global innovation, research and development, digital, brand and marketing functions for New Zealand's largest company. Prior to joining the Fonterra Executive Team, Komal led Fonterra's global health and nutrition business based in Singapore. With experience across Asia, the America's and Europe, she has led major transformations in sales, innovation, digital enablement and technology. Komal was named New Zealand's Young Executive of the Year in 2017 and serves on several international boards. Komal has completed the Executive Program at Stanford University School of Business and holds Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Management degrees from the University of Waikato. She is a Barrister and Solicitor of the High Court of New Zealand as well as a member of the New Zealand Institute of Chartered Accountants. Malcolm Johns Malcolm is the Chief Executive of Genesis Energy. Previously he was the Chief Executive of InterCity Group and held several governance roles within New Zealand's transport, infrastructure and tourism sectors. He is Convenor of the Climate Leaders Coalition and served as Chair of the APEC Business Advisory Council leading the regional trade policy task force for climate change. Malcolm has extensive business acumen and understanding of Government systems John Roche John was appointed MPI's Chief Science Adviser in June 2018 to provide an independent science perspective. He leads MPI's Science Forum, chairs the Science Governance Group at MPI and the independent Mycoplasma bovis Strategic Science Advisory Group. John is also a member of the Prime Minister's Chief Science Adviser's forum and is an adjunct professor in University of Auckland's School of Biological Sciences. John was previously DairyNZ's Principal Scientist for Animal Science. He has held science appointments in Ireland and Australia. He is also Managing Director of Down to Earth Advice Ltd. Widely published and a regular contributor to international science and farming conferences, John has an Honours degree in Agricultural Science, a Masters in Farm Systems and Pasture Management, and a PhD in Animal Nutrition.
Scoop
06-05-2025
- Business
- Scoop
PM's Science Council To Set Direction For Science
Rt Hon Christopher Luxon Prime Minister Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has today announced the new Prime Minister's Chief Science Advisor, and the members of the Prime Minister's Science and Technology Advisory Council. 'We have world-class scientists in our universities and research institutes, but they're working in a system held back by outdated settings. To unlock the full potential of science and technology, we need a sharper focus on commercialisation, better access to global investment, and clearer priorities at home,' Mr Luxon says. 'This Council is a new initiative to get clear, independent advice to ensure our investments in science and technology are delivering real outcomes for New Zealanders. 'The Council will provide advice on long-term priorities for government-funded science and innovation. They will help identify areas of focus that will have the greatest benefit for Kiwis and our economy. 'I also expect them to provide bold and courageous advice about those areas that aren't delivering value for New Zealanders and may need to be deprioritised. It's about making sure we are investing in what will have the greatest impact for New Zealanders.' Members of the Council bring a strong mix of scientific, commercial and strategic expertise. They include: Sir Peter Gluckman Craig Piggott Professor Merryn Tawhai Komal Mistry-Mehta Malcolm Johns Dr John Roche 'I am also pleased to announce that Dr John Roche has been appointed as the Prime Minister's Chief Science Advisor. In this role, John will support robust decision making by providing high quality, independent scientific advice. John, in his capacity as my science advisor, will also be a member of the council.' Minister for Science, Innovation and Technology, Hon Dr Shane Reti, will chair the Council, with Dr John Roche as deputy chair. 'These are highly capable individuals who understand both the science and the economic imperatives. They are prepared to make the bold calls needed to ensure the system is future-focused, outcome-driven and aligned with our economic goals,' Mr Luxon says. 'A strong, well-directed science and innovation sector is critical to lifting productivity, creating high-value jobs and supporting a more resilient and competitive economy.' The Council will provide its first formal advice to the Prime Minister and Minister Reti later this year. Biographies of Council members: Sir Peter Gluckman Professor Sir Peter Gluckman ONZ KNZM FRSNZ FMedSci FRS trained as a paediatrician and biomedical scientist. He is Director of Koi Tu- Centre for Informed Futures and holds a Distinguished University Professorship at the University of Auckland. He is currently the chair of the Science System Advisory Group. Sir Peter is President of the International Science Council (ISC, 2021-2026). From 2014-2021 he was the inaugural Chair of the International Network of Government Science Advice (INGSA), and from 2009-2018 he was the first Chief Science Advisor to the Prime Minister of New Zealand. He was also Science Envoy for the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and coordinated the secretariat of the Small Advanced Economies Initiative. He has written and spoken extensively on science-policy and science-diplomacy and science-society interactions. He has received the highest scientific and civilian honours in New Zealand and numerous international scientific awards. Craig Piggott Craig Piggott is the founder of Halter. The company's solar-powered collar for dairy and beef cows, pairs with an app for farmers and allows cows to respond to guidance cues, enabling virtual herding and fencing while monitoring health 24/7. This innovation helps farmers increase milk and protein production propelling the company to become one of New Zealand's fastest-growing businesses with a thriving international customer base. Craig brings experience in innovation, agriculture and business. Merryn Tawhai Merryn Tawhai graduated from the University of Auckland with a PhD in Engineering Science in 2001. She leads a research programme at the Auckland Bioengineering Institute (ABI) in applied computational physiology of the respiratory system. Merryn is the Director of the ABI and sits on the Board of Directors for Cure Kids Ventures and the Virtual Physiological Human Institute. She was ABI's Deputy Director for 10 years, Director of the Medical Technologies Centre of Research Excellence (MedTech CoRE), and an independent Director for Izon Science. Merryn was awarded the 2016 MacDiarmid Medal by the Royal Society of New Zealand (RSNZ) Te Apārangi, is a Fellow of the RSNZ, a Fellow of IAMBE and AIMBE, and an elected member of the Fleischner Society. Komal Mistry-Mehta Komal is Chief Innovation & Brand Officer at Fonterra and Managing Director of the Ki Tua Fund, Fonterra's corporate venture capital arm. She leads global innovation, research and development, digital, brand and marketing functions for New Zealand's largest company. Prior to joining the Fonterra Executive Team, Komal led Fonterra's global health and nutrition business based in Singapore. With experience across Asia, the America's and Europe, she has led major transformations in sales, innovation, digital enablement and technology. Komal was named New Zealand's Young Executive of the Year in 2017 and serves on several international boards. Komal has completed the Executive Program at Stanford University School of Business and holds Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Management degrees from the University of Waikato. She is a Barrister and Solicitor of the High Court of New Zealand as well as a member of the New Zealand Institute of Chartered Accountants. Malcolm Johns Malcolm is the Chief Executive of Genesis Energy. Previously he was the Chief Executive of InterCity Group and held several governance roles within New Zealand's transport, infrastructure and tourism sectors. He is Convenor of the Climate Leaders Coalition and served as Chair of the APEC Business Advisory Council leading the regional trade policy task force for climate change. Malcolm has extensive business acumen and understanding of Government systems John Roche John was appointed MPI's Chief Science Adviser in June 2018 to provide an independent science perspective. He leads MPI's Science Forum, chairs the Science Governance Group at MPI and the independent Mycoplasma bovis Strategic Science Advisory Group. John is also a member of the Prime Minister's Chief Science Adviser's forum and is an adjunct professor in University of Auckland's School of Biological Sciences. John was previously DairyNZ's Principal Scientist for Animal Science. He has held science appointments in Ireland and Australia. He is also Managing Director of Down to Earth Advice Ltd. Widely published and a regular contributor to international science and farming conferences, John has an Honours degree in Agricultural Science, a Masters in Farm Systems and Pasture Management, and a PhD in Animal Nutrition.
Muscat Daily
27-01-2025
- Politics
- Muscat Daily
Muscat Global Knowledge Dialogue brings 500 scientists, policymakers from across the globe
Muscat – Muscat Global Knowledge Dialogue, a major international event focused on science and innovation, opened on Monday under the patronage of H H Sayyid Asaad bin Tarik al Said, Deputy Prime Minister for International Relations and Cooperation Affairs and Personal Representative of His Majesty the Sultan. Organised by Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation in collaboration with International Science Council (ISC), the two-day forum will be followed by the ISC General Assembly on January 29 and 30. In her opening address, H E Dr Rahma bint Ibrahim al Mahrouqi, Minister of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, underscored the forum's aim to foster knowledge exchange and collaboration among nations. She emphasised the need to transform innovative ideas into tangible economic and social benefits, aligning with Oman Vision 2040's goal of advancing a knowledge-based economy. 'This global event provides an exceptional opportunity to bring together over 500 participants, including scientists, researchers, policymakers and experts from across the globe,' said H E Rahma. 'The discussions will address global challenges, set priorities for international scientific cooperation, and build partnerships in research and innovation.' The forum's dialogue sessions will focus on three key themes – future of science, science diplomacy and the role of science in society. Topics include emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, trust in science, sustainable development, and the need for greater equality and social cohesion. Highlighting her ministry's ongoing commitment to scientific research and innovation, H E Rahma said, 'We fund numerous research projects annually and support infrastructure, skills development, and partnerships among government, private sector and academic institutions.' On the significance of such global discussions, Sir Peter Gluckman, President of ISC, said, 'These dialogues bridge the gap between science and politics, addressing regional and global contexts.' He described ISC as a central organisation advocating the use of scientific evidence in policymaking and promoting multidisciplinary cooperation to tackle complex challenges. Sir Peter Gluckman Sir Peter emphasised the role of science in societal development, especially in emerging economies and least-developed nations. 'Science must be at the core of solutions for the environmental, social and economic issues faced by governments at all levels.' Speaking on the importance of building trust in science, Ruth Morgan, Director of Centre for Forensic Sciences at University College London, said, 'The question of who shapes the social contract for science and what it looks like today is critical.' The dialogue highlights the crucial role of science in addressing global challenges, fostering international collaboration and ensuring sustainable progress for all nations.
