OUR STORY
The Catalyst
In 2023, the Prime Minister’s Chief Science Advisor released the AI in Healthcare report. It called for a unified approach to streamline research efforts, foster collaboration, and expedite the translation of research findings into practical solutions for health sector practitioners.
Responding to the Call
This Network was established by a group of researchers from the University of Auckland (UoA) in response to this call. While the research and funding landscape has evolved since this report, the value of a national network remains clear. There is continued recognition of the need for leadership, coordination and cross-sector collaboration to drive meaningful research and innovation.
Our Mission
Enable Aotearoa to be at the forefront of AI innovation for better health outcomes.
Relationships
Support the development of strategic relationships within the research community, health sector and government to aid in the coordination of AI Research.
Best Practice
Champion best practice for the appropriate, safe and ethical research and use of AI in Aotearoa that uphold our obligations to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and WAI2575.
Collaboration
Facilitate collaboration, sharing of outputs, lessons learned and resources to inform the community and accelerate AI research and the adoption of tools.
Awareness
Raise awareness and support pathways for research translation and commercialisation.
Building the Foundations
The Network has always set out to partner with existing organisations in the ecosystem. Our focus remains on supporting research on the use of AI in Health. To date, we have developed strong relationships with key partners including MedTech-iQ, Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora, several New Zealand Universities, and Health Informatics NZ (HiNZ). In2026, we look to deepen these relationships and build new partnerships, embedding the Network in the wider ecosystem.
Looking to the Future
To ensure we serve our transdisciplinary community, we appointed our inaugural Stewardship Group in 2025. This group of experts from across the motu represents academia, government, and the healthcare sector, will guide our strategy and ensure our work benefits everyone.
We invite you to get involved and have your say in the future of the Network.