This page describes the research, science and innovation system, its objectives and the role of regulation in the system. It lists the main statutes and changes to regulation either planned or in progress.
Through the 2026 Ara Whaihua funding round of the He Ara Whakahihiko Capability Fund, we received 57 proposals. The Government is investing in 19 work programmes that focus primarily on the pathway to commercialisation and/or economic growth from excellent science.
The Deep South National Science Challenge is working to understand the role of the Antarctic and Southern Ocean in determining New Zealand’s future climate and how the impact this role has on key economic sectors, infrastructure and natural resources.
The Sustainable Seas National Science Challenge work is focused on enhancing the use of New Zealand marine resources within environmental and biological constraints.
The Science for Technological Innovation National Science Challenge aims to tackle New Zealand’s big high-tech challenges to grow the economy.
New Zealand’s Biological Heritage National Science Challenge aims to protect and manage New Zealand’s biodiversity, improve our biosecurity, and enhance our resilience to harmful organisms.
WSP New Zealand Limited is receiving Research Programmes funding for the following projects.
University of Canterbury is receiving Research Programmes funding for the following projects.
The Cawthron Institute Trust Board is receiving Research Programmes funding for the following projects.
Te Whare Wananga o Awanuiarangi is receiving Research Programmes funding for the following projects.
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