Science in Society

Initiatives, projects and programmes funded through Science and Society, support the increase of New Zealanders public engagement with the Science, Innovation and Technology Sector through:

1. enhancing better engagement with the public and scientists
2. questioning and addressing what we need innovative science to understand better what to do with new knowledge
3. contributing to the development of talented people to ensure we have a workforce to support growth an innovation within New Zealand.

As a nation, we are curious about what’s around us, the world we live in, how it works, and we push boundaries and asks difficult questions to find a way to get things done. With a remarkable history of pioneers and innovators, science and technology has helped shape us.

MBIE-funded Science in Society activities, projects and programmes

We fund the following initiatives under Science in Society:

Science Media Centre

The New Zealand Science Media Centre facilitates and strengthens links between the media and research communities, serving the public interest in accurate, informative, evidence-based reporting.

Science Media Centre(external link)

Science Teachers Leaders Programme

The Science Teaching Leadership Programme provides opportunities for primary schools, secondary science departments and their nominated teachers to enhance the teaching of science within school communities.  The programme is administered by the Royal Society Te Apārangi.

About the Science Teaching Leadership Programme(external link) — Royal Society

Prime Minister’s Science Prizes

The Prime Minister’s Science Prizes raise the profile and prestige of science among New Zealanders. They showcase the best of New Zealand science and celebrate scientific achievements. The prizes are administered by the Royal Society Te Apārangi.

Prime Minister's Science Prizes(external link)

Prime Minister’s Science Prizes – Terms of Reference 2026 [PDF, 309 KB]