The launch of the first Taranaki Science Symposium marks a significant step toward establishing Taranaki as a regional hub for new research and innovation.

Presented by the Taranaki Applied Innovation Centre, a new initiative led by Te Puna Umanga Venture Taranaki, the regional development agency, the event aims to support science, research, and emerging technologies in the region. Taking place at the New Plymouth Club Auditorium on Thursday 11 September, the event welcomes anyone with an interest in science and innovation, from academics and business professionals to students and community leaders.

"While AI is getting all of the hype at the moment, it’s biotechnology and other emerging innovations that are quietly seeing huge amounts of investment and commercial success across Aotearoa," says Thom Adams, Innovation Lead at Te Puna Umanga Venture Taranaki.

Investment is flowing from both public and private sectors. In 2022, Paeroa-based company AgriSea New Zealand received a $750,000 loan from the Government’s Regional Strategic Partnership Fund towards establishing the world’s first commercial seaweed-based nanocellulose manufacturing plant.

"The exciting thing about AgriSea is that there are so many high value markets for nanocellulose. It can be used in bio-composites, cosmetics, wound care, and tissue engineering. It’s a huge economic opportunity and, what’s even more exciting, is that it’s a sustainable product."

Meanwhile, companies like Wellington-based Bontia Bio are using new techniques like precision fermentation to develop new products for pet flea and tick treatments, tapping into a global market worth billions.

"These examples highlight what is possible," Adams says. "We have brilliant people here in Taranaki performing world-leading research. The problem is that they’re often either poorly funded or working in isolation. The Symposium is about sparking conversations, and building connections and capabilities across science, tech, industry, and communities in the region."

Attendees at the event will hear from inspiring speakers at the forefront of emerging technologies, including:

• Dr Miles Benton, a Taranaki-based bioinformatician who helped pioneer a portable, low-cost DNA sequencing kit with Oxford Nanopore Technologies. Miles is a passionate advocate for accessible gene sequencing technology that gives communities control over their own local genetic knowledge.

• Kaiah Bloor (Taranaki, Ngāti Ruanui, Ngāruahine), is Kaiārahi Pūtaiao (Science Lead) at the University of Otago. Kaiah supports Māori science students across Aotearoa and is part of the Wool Gadgets research team at the University of Otago, which transforms low-value wool into innovative new products.

Stacey Hitchcock, Deputy CE/General Manager of Investment at Te Puna Umanga Venture Taranaki, says that there is untapped potential in the region.

"You never know where the next big idea will come from, or where the next billion-dollar idea is hiding," says Hitchcock. "We have a unique and diverse region with some of the brightest and curious minds - it’s a huge, missed opportunity if we don’t provide a platform for them."

Hitchcock adds that Taranaki also has expertise in complementary industries such as agriculture, engineering, and manufacturing.

"As a region, we’re well placed to take advantage of our strengths. This event, and the efforts of the Taranaki Applied Innovation Centre, are key avenues for us to start connecting the dots between those strengths."

The symposium will also feature an open mic session for sharing ideas, and breakout discussions over morning tea, providing time and space to explore future research and innovation opportunities. Attendees will leave with fresh insights, new connections, and a stronger understanding of the region’s potential.

Event details
Taranaki Science Symposium: Thursday 11 September at the New Plymouth Club Auditorium (9:00am - 2:00pm). Spaces are limited. Register today to secure your spot: https://taranaki-science-symposium.eventbrite.co.nz
Lunch and refreshments provided.

About the Taranaki Applied Innovation Centre
The Taranaki Applied Innovation Centre is an initiative of Te Puna Umanga Venture Taranaki, the regional development agency, and is a key action within the Tapuae Roa 2025/26 Action Plan, the regional development strategy for Taranaki. The Centre is enabling the development of new high-value industries and a platform for scientific excellence.