The AI in the Creative Industries Summit is a platform for Aotearoa New Zealand creative sector thought leaders, artists and innovators to connect, learn and spark new ideas.
From storytelling in a technology-driven world, to young creative voices, deep-fakes and misinformation, the themes for the second year of this inspiring event sparked meaningful conversations about AI’s role in creativity and creative business. Held as part of TechWeek25 on 19 and 20 May 2025, day one took place in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, and day two in Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington.
Te Puna Creative Hub, part of Te Puna Creative Innovation Quarter in Te Kōpua Henderson, was the perfect setting for day one and the sold-out audience included those who have already developed creative products and services using AI in different (and creative) ways, along with creative practitioners who are ready to experiment and innovate, and others who are keen to learn more about how this rapidly evolving technology is being adopted in all corners of the creative industries, including screen, games, music, design and publishing.
Inspirational stories were shared about a research project bringing new life to taonga through restoration and enabling a new generation to experience these gifts; how the New Zealand education system is evolving to meet the need to skill and reskill in line with new technology development; and using AI animation tools to bring traditional storytelling to life for new audiences.
Panel sessions were facilitated by Laura Ellis, BBC Head of Technology Futures who said:
I’m involved in a lot of discussions about technology in a lot of different places, but the conversation in New Zealand is unique in the way that people, culture and respect are at the heart of how technology is adopted and developed.
Towards the end of the day a panel on Intellectual Property in AI further explored the uniquely New Zealand perspective and approach to this challenging intersection of law and tech.
In addition to those in the room taking part, Te Puna Creative Hub’s facilities enabled live streaming of the event to students in design schools, increasing access to the next generation of creative professionals. Entries to a 1 Minute AI Film Festival were shown across the day, with summit participants voting in real-time on their favourites.
During the breaks participants took the opportunity to make connections and network with others who are exploring the economic, social and cultural potential for Auckland and New Zealand that exists at the intersection of creativity and technology.
The AI in the Creative Industries Summit is a collaboration between AI Forum New Zealand – Te Kāhui Atamai Iahiko o Aotearoa and WeCreate.
