NZ Launches Three Science Institutes to Drive Innovation and Economic Growth

New Zealand has taken a bold step in reshaping its science and innovation ecosystem with the official launch of three restructured and newly purposed science institutes. Science, Innovation and Technology Minister Dr Shane Reti announced the major reform, describing it as a “milestone” for the sector. The new structure is designed to boost national productivity, stimulate job creation, and improve quality of life for New Zealanders through scientific innovation.

Major Structural Changes in the Science Sector

Effective immediately, six of the country’s Crown Research Institutes (CRIs) have merged into two new powerhouse institutions:

• The Bioeconomy Science Institute, focused on biotechnology, bioresources, and sustainable growth.

• The Earth Science Institute, dedicated to climate resilience, environmental science, and geological research.

Additionally, the Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR) is being restructured with a sharpened mission. It is now known as the Public Health and Forensic Science Institute, targeting high-impact research in public health, disease surveillance, and forensic services.

These institutes will continue to operate as Crown companies, but with revised mandates emphasizing commercial outcomes, real-world applicability, and alignment with national priorities.

Purpose and Vision Behind the Reform

Dr Reti emphasized the government’s commitment to empowering New Zealand’s scientists and innovators:

“Science, innovation and technology are the engine rooms of a productive economy... We’re backing our scientists to turn ideas into impact.”

The consolidation is designed to eliminate silos, foster interdisciplinary collaboration, and improve the efficiency of public research investment. According to Dr Reti, this shift will enhance innovation pipelines from lab to market, encourage public-private partnerships, and bolster the country’s competitive edge in global markets.

Strategic Benefits and Economic Impact

Key outcomes expected from these new institutes include:

• Job creation in emerging industries such as bioengineering and environmental technology.

• Increased exports, particularly in biotech and agritech sectors.

• Faster translation of research into commercial solutions, creating new ventures and partnerships.

• Enhanced government responsiveness, thanks to more strategically aligned research capacities.

This transformation also reinforces New Zealand’s science capabilities in strategic areas such as climate adaptation, sustainable resource use, biotechnology, and healthcare innovation.

Acknowledgment of Leadership and Contributions

Dr Reti paid tribute to the leadership teams of the former CRIs, noting their role in laying the foundation for this transition.

“The outgoing Chairs and Boards have stewarded the sector through complex challenges and change. Their dedication has made this reform possible.”

He also recognized the continued efforts of the scientific and administrative staff, whose expertise and hard work are central to delivering outcomes that benefit both the economy and communities across New Zealand.

A Forward-Looking Science System

The Government’s restructuring initiative marks a practical pivot toward a science sector that is:

• Agile and responsive to national needs

• Economically productive and globally relevant

• Rooted in collaboration and cross-disciplinary innovation

Dr Reti concluded by reaffirming the government’s support for a future-focused science system:

“We are unlocking the full potential of our research sector to fuel economic growth, drive innovation, and secure a more prosperous future for all New Zealanders.”

This transformative reform in New Zealand’s science and innovation landscape represents a deliberate investment in future resilience and prosperity. With these new institutes in place, the country is positioning itself to lead in critical fields that will shape the coming decades.