New Zealand Institute for Advanced Technology discovery phase for quantum technologies

The Government, through the New Zealand Institute for Advanced Technology, is supporting this discovery process to assess New Zealand’s domestic quantum technology capabilities and international opportunities for commercialisation.

The discovery phase will run from December 2025 to June 2026, working closely with researchers and businesses to explore both scientific and industry needs. If the discovery process shows readiness for a quantum technology investment, the Institute will move ahead with the design and initiation of a quantum technology research platform.

Research in quantum technologies builds on the science of how particles behave at the smallest scales. This research underpins breakthroughs in computing, secure communications, and sensing and measurement - areas with the potential to transform industries and create new opportunities for New Zealand businesses.

The New Zealand Institute for Advanced Technology is a new public research organisation announced earlier this year. It is currently being developed within the Ministry of Business, Innnovation and Employment. Once established it will operate from a central hub in Auckland with a network of strategic research investments around the country, partnering with universities, industry, and research institutions.

Quantum technologies is the Institute’s third major activity, following earlier investments in future materials and magnet technologies, and artificial intelligence research platforms.

Learn more about the quantum technologies research platform.

New Zealand Institute for Advanced Technology

Read the Minister's announcement.

Government launches quantum tech discovery(external link) — Beehive.govt.nz