Shane Reti, minister of science, innovation and technology, has unveiled a $1.35 million discovery phase to determine the potential of developing and deploying a national quantum technologies platform designed to generate jobs, foster partnerships and strengthen New Zealand’s economy.
“Quantum technology underpins breakthroughs in computing, secure communications, and sensing and measurement – areas that can transform industries and create new opportunities for New Zealand businesses,” said Reti on Wednesday.
How Will the Quantum Technologies Discovery Phase Work?
Set to run from December 2025 to June 2026, the discovery phase will engage researchers and businesses to evaluate scientific potential and industry requirements, with an advisory panel offering expert guidance. Once the quantum technology is ready for investment, the New Zealand Institute for Advanced Technology will proceed with designing and launching a dedicated quantum research platform.
The institute is spearheading the discovery phase of quantum technologies, its third major initiative. It follows earlier investments in a future materials and magnet technologies platform at Paihau–Robinson Research Institute in May and an artificial intelligence research platform announced in September.
“The New Zealand Institute for Advanced Technology will undertake a discovery process to explore New Zealand’s domestic quantum tech capabilities and international opportunities for commercialisation,” said Reti.
“This discovery process will look at how New Zealand can step up and accelerate our quantum technology research to drive innovation, create high-value jobs and secure our place in the global tech economy,” he continued.