Trailblazer at AUT AI collaboration
AUT hosted renowned video gamer and designer, Maru Nihoniho, (NZOM, Ngāi Tahu, Ngāti Porou, Te Whānui-ā-Apanui), at a livestreamed Future Careers Forum for high school students held in collaboration with the Science Gallery at the University of Melbourne.
Also featuring a talented line-up of AUT and University of Melbourne experts, and special guests, the Trans-Tasman panel discussion about the AI Revolution marked the first time the University of Melbourne's hub for innovation - has collaborated with a New Zealand university.
In the QS Rankings 2025 the University of Melbourne was ranked number one in Australia and number 13 worldwide.
AUT Vice-Chancellor, Professor Damon Salesa, says that as New Zealand’s only university of technology, AUT is proud to collaborate on initiatives that harness the power of technology to shape a better future.
“This trans-Tasman collaboration with the University of Melbourne is a strong example of how partnerships across science, technology, art, and design can drive opportunities for meaningful impact.
“AUT is committed to ensuring that technologies like AI are developed inclusively and ethically. Working alongside Maru Nihoniho, Science Gallery Melbourne, and our own AUT experts strengthens our ability to have impact for our communities in this space.
“Through this collaboration, we aim to inspire future students to see themselves as innovators and changemakers in a rapidly evolving technological world—reinforcing AUT’s reputation as a bold, future-focused university making real-world impact,” he says.
Science Gallery at the University of Melbourne explores the collision of art and science through an annual program of exhibitions, learning initiatives, public programs and research that showcases interdisciplinary and experimental practice.
Part of an international network of galleries linked to universities across the globe, Science Gallery is located in the University of Melbourne’s innovation precinct, Melbourne Connect. One of seven global nodes, Science Gallery Melbourne aims to involve, inspire and transform young people through art and science.
The current exhibition, SCI-FI: Mythologies Transformed, offers fresh insights on science fiction, a genre built on envisioning alternative futures and imaginary realms. The lines connecting science fiction with ancient philosophy and mythologies are brought to light through the work of Asian and First Nations women artists and collectives.
“Collaborating with AUT on Science Gallery Melbourne’s global classroom initiative has allowed us to boldly inspire 3,500 high school students across the Asia-Pacific, including Australia, New Zealand, Vietnam and China. Sharing interdisciplinary and intercultural learning experiences online offers new pathways into the careers of the future, where creativity and collaboration are crucial in an ever-changing world,” says Dr Ryan Jefferies, Director of Science Gallery Melbourne.
Named one of the top 50 women in technology by Forbes magazine, Maru Nihoniho is the founder and director of Metia Interactive, an Auckland-based game development company that produces third-party games across multiple platforms. As a game designer and producer, her focus is on indigenous storytelling, and she is committed to delivering meaningful games that feature strong cultural themes and unique stories.
Participating high school students had the opportunity to ask questions of the panellists in both countries, with a focus on the use of AI and integration in industry.