Wednesday, 1 July 2026
These engagements created space for open, thoughtful dialogue across the biodiscovery ecosystem. Participants shared perspectives on opportunities, challenges, and priorities, contributing valuable insights that reflect the diversity and depth of expertise across the sector. This collaborative approach has reinforced the importance of partnership and collective effort in building a more connected and impactful biodiscovery system.
A number of key themes emerged through this engagement. Participants consistently highlighted the need for stronger coordination across what is currently a fragmented system, improved collaboration between actors, and clearer pathways from research through to commercial outcomes.
The importance of embedding Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles, enabling meaningful Māori participation and leadership, and protecting mātauranga Māori and data sovereignty were also strongly emphasised.
There is a clear need to better align research with market opportunities, strengthen capability across the system, and ensure access to infrastructure and investment.
Insights gathered through engagement have directly informed the development of the Platform’s strategic plan. This plan outlines how the Platform will strengthen connections across the ecosystem, build capability, and support the translation of biodiscovery into high-value products. The draft plan has now been submitted to the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) for review.
This engagement represents the beginning of an ongoing journey. Continued collaboration with partners across Māori, research, and industry will be critical to the Platform’s success. We are committed to maintaining and expanding engagement throughout the life of the Platform, ensuring that it remains responsive, inclusive, and grounded in the needs and aspirations of the sector.