MoRST’s futurewatch work programme aims to build government’s alertness to new scientific knowledge and technologies and the sort of implications – opportunities and risks – that they present to New Zealand.
The Growth and Innovation Framework identified three sectors - biotechnology, creative and information and communications technology (ICT) - for special attention because of the impact they are likely to have on other sectors and their current and potential strengths.
Biotechnology Taskforce Action 1
That industry, with Government, define a programme for targeting the recruitment and repatriation to New Zealand of five key scientists and entrepreneurs – i.e. “rainmakers” – per annum with the skills and experience to establish new and innovative research laboratories within an effective commercialisation structure. This may include working with programmes such as World Class New Zealand and the Kiwi Expat Association as a way to attract talent.
The Design Taskforce identified a number of barriers to New Zealand businesses making full use of design. The barriers include:
design services are too costly for many small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs);
a general lack of understanding of the value of design; and
the need for improved infrastructure and capability within the design sector.
The ICT Taskforce placed high priority on the need for improved alignment and timeliness of ICT statistics for two reasons:
To track the growth of the ICT sector and identify gaps, issues and growth opportunities; and
To convey internationally a more complete picture of the New Zealand ICT sector e.g. in OECD data
Biotechnology has been identified as another key sector in the government's growth and innovation framework. The Government’s New Zealand Biotechnology Strategy sets out a vision and direction for the development of biotechnology in New Zealand. Its theme is "a foundation for development with care". Its work is concentrated in three main areas: Community engagement, Growing the sector to enhance economic and community benefits, and, Regulation that provides robust safeguards while allowing innovation
Oxygen Group is a forum of future science leaders set up to give independent advice to the Government on emerging science and technology issues and trends.
Science in Society MoRST is working to understand New Zealanders' responses to new technologies and develop tools that will allow both scientists and science agencies to respond.
New Zealand’s investment in the Australian Synchrotron will ensure that our researchers can undertake leading edge R&D using specialised technology.
Sustainable development is another aspect New Zealand is looking into.