Aotearoa AI Awards 2025
Do you know someone doing groundbreaking work in AI? Or are you leading innovation in artificial intelligence in Aotearoa?
We are proud to announce the inaugural Aotearoa AI Awards 2025, are now open for entries! These prestigious awards recognise individuals and organisations demonstrating leadership, originality, and impact in AI research, development, and application.
🏆 Winners will be announced at the Aotearoa AI Awards Ceremony on 17 September 2025 in Auckland and celebrated throughout the Aotearoa AI Summit 2025 on 18 September.
Awards Categories:
AI Changemaker of the Year
Celebrates an individual or organisation driving meaningful, positive change through AI. This award recognises leadership, advocacy, and commitment to responsible and impactful AI adoption in Aotearoa.
AI Research Pioneer
Honours outstanding original research in artificial intelligence. This category is open to individuals or teams whose work advances AI knowledge, tools, or methodologies, and contributes significantly to the field.
Outstanding AI Implementation – Sponsored by Enlighten Designs
Recognises the successful deployment of AI in a real-world setting. This award highlights impactful, practical applications that demonstrate measurable outcomes and innovation in implementation.
Rising AI Star – Sponsored by Tompkins Wake
Spotlights an emerging individual who is making significant contributions to AI development or application. This award celebrates the next generation of AI talent in Aotearoa.
Te Ao Māori & Pasifika AI – Sponsored by ANZ
Acknowledges individuals or initiatives championing AI solutions that support Māori and/or Pasifika communities. This award values culturally grounded, inclusive, and community-driven innovation.
Trailblazer in AI Innovation
Recognises cutting-edge innovation in AI by individuals, startups, or organisations. This award is for those pushing boundaries, creating novel AI technologies, or pioneering new approaches.
People’s Choice – Sponsored by Aware Group
This is the Supreme award of the year. The winners from each award are celebrated throughout the day at the Aotearoa AI Summit 2025 on September 18, with the winner of the ‘Aotearoa AI People’s Choice Award’ being chosen by audience vote.
Key Dates
🗓️ Entries Close: 23 July 2025, 5:00pm
📣 Finalists Announced: 25 August 2025
🎥 Finalist Video Due: 4 September 2025