Advancing Manufacturing Aotearoa recently attended the M2 AI Summit in Christchurch, joining a diverse group of business leaders and innovators exploring the fast-evolving role of artificial intelligence in Aotearoa’s economy.

 

AMA hosted a table of manufacturers including Wyma Engineering, Hamilton Jet, Vortex, and Argus Manutech, creating a space for open discussion about how AI can be applied in real manufacturing environments. The event offered valuable insights into how quickly AI capabilities have advanced, and what that means for the future of New Zealand manufacturing.

 

Andrew from Wyma Engineering reflected on the experience:

“I have to say it was a bit eye opening, and I've been feeling quite perturbed how far it’s gone in 2 years and that we have not been closer to the benefits of AI over this time. So, it was a very useful day for me and certainly provides some energy to get on with it.”

 

The Summit showcased a range of speakers and case studies highlighting how organisations are already using AI to improve operations, productivity, and decision-making. Discussions also touched on workforce capability, responsible AI use, and the challenges of adoption for smaller firms.

 

AMA’s participation aimed to help manufacturers understand the opportunities and practical steps toward adopting AI in their own businesses — from identifying pilot projects to building internal capability and collaboration.

 

You can view the full list of presentations and speaker materials here:
👉 M2 AI Summit Presentations

 

As part of our ongoing work, AMA will continue to facilitate conversations and connections that support manufacturers to explore emerging technologies and their potential to lift sector performance.