Beyond Hype: Building Responsible AI in a Small-State Context

This panel explores how New Zealand can develop trustworthy and sovereign AI capability suited to local needs. It examines whether the country should build, adapt, or adopt global AI models, while considering data sovereignty, Māori perspectives, social licence, and lessons from AI use in sensitive public sector contexts. The discussion also highlights the importance of strong data ethics, governance, privacy, and responsible data use in enabling sustainable AI innovation.

Featuring:
Emma MacDonald
Director, Stats NZ

Kari Jones
Chief Operating Officer, Executive Director - Operational Excellence and Enablement, Executive Director - Transformation & Operations, Financial Markets Authority