21stOctober 2008
IPENZ – Innovation Centre a good start
IPENZ believes the Governments plan to develop a New Zealand Innovation Centre based in Auckland is a step in the right
direction. They have recognised the need to assist in the development of New Zealand businesses by increasing
collaboration with research providers.
“IPENZ welcomes Governments recognition that industrial innovation in the global market place is tough for New Zealand
businesses and by providing a path for them to tap into industry-relevant research work is vital to their survival,”
says Dr Andrew Cleland, Chief Executive of the Institution of Professional Engineers New Zealand (IPENZ). “Furthermore,
creating an opportunity for personnel to transfer from research organisations into the private sector is critical for
future prosperity. The development of an Innovation Centre should assist this.”
“We hope the Government’s Innovation Centre will involve more than just Auckland University and draw on the strong
contribution of the other four tertiary providers in the Auckland region such as Massey University’s Albany campus. An
Innovation Centre in Auckland would greatly benefit from a collaborative effort by all the research providers in the
area. Industrial Research Ltd also needs to be involved,” says Dr Cleland.
“IPENZ is pleased to see the Government is taken some action on what we have been advocating for some time. The gaining
of industrial co-funding of research and personnel transfer are key success measures for the private sector to enhance
our competitive edge and enable New Zealand businesses to survive and grow in the global market place.”
ends