Research in business
AUT Business School researchers don't just study the business world – they work to change it. Bringing together expertise across disciplines, they take on the questions that matter: how economies grow, how workplaces become fairer and how decisions made here shape outcomes far beyond New Zealand.
Research groups
Our business research strengths
Digital futures and innovation
Technology and innovation are reshaping business, work and society. We have expertise across digital marketing, ICT capability, supply chain management, entrepreneurship, and global competitiveness, with a strong interest in the future of work. This research also connects to digital inclusion, Indigenous entrepreneurship and culturally grounded innovation – critical to ensuring equitable participation in a rapidly evolving digital economy. The emphasis is on enabling people and organisations to harness digital opportunities responsibly and creatively.
Inclusive work and wellbeing
At the heart of our research mission is understanding how people work and thrive in organisations and communities. We address workplace inclusion, economic inequality, financial capability and workforce development, with a strong emphasis on the wellbeing of diverse groups. In Aotearoa New Zealand, this work is naturally informed by Māori and Pacific perspectives on equity, belonging and collective wellbeing. This research aims to advance fair, accessible and productive employment that strengthens both social and economic outcomes.
Responsible business
How do businesses balance ethical, transparency and sustainability considerations? We investigate ethical governance, corporate accountability, sustainability practices, social impact measurement, responsible investment and ethical consumption. Indigenous principles such as collective responsibility and kaitiakitanga (guardianship) shape responsible practice in the Aotearoa New Zealand context. The focus is on building organisations that contribute meaningfully to long-term prosperity that benefits all.
AUT business research, translated
Big questions deserve straight answers. In our Research Matters series, AUT business academics break down the issues shaping work, money and society – in plain language, without the jargon.
Prefer to listen?
Hey, Did You Know? is AUT's podcast where academics from across the university answer the questions you didn't know you had.
