Kia whakatōmuri te haere whakamua
I walk backwards into the future with my eyes fixed on the past.
The year is 1925; Gordon Coates becomes Prime Minister, NZ’s first national radio broadcasting company begins operations… and across the world, a new scientific theory emerges that challenges humanity’s understanding of the rules that govern the building blocks of our universe: quantum physics.
This science and its applications have since transformed computing, imaging, sensing, and more. As our understanding of this area of research has grown, so too have the opportunities presented for continued innovation.
And so, in recognition of the 100 years that have passed since it first emerged, UNESCO has declared 2025 to be the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IQYST) – a year dedicated to exploring the importance of quantum science and its applications, which include energy, sustainability, communications, and human and environmental health.
Quantum technologies represent the next great leap in innovation. Corporations like Intel, Google, IBM, and Microsoft, as well as governments around the world, are investing more and more resources in their development, and Aotearoa New Zealand is right there alongside them.
The best brains in the field want you to join them in this – dare we say it – quantum leap.
On this website, you will find a calendar of public events being hosted around the motu so you can get face-to-face, and possibly even hands-on, with real-world applications of quantum physics already in use every day, as well as links to resources pitched at all levels to further your engagement with this science that is sometimes described as “stranger than fiction”.
Our Mission
Mō Mātou
Key supporters of the initiative to proclaim 2025 the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology in Aoteaora New Zealand have come together to promote and support events.
What is quantum?
He aha TE Mātai ahupūngao tataunga?
At its most basic level, “quantum” comes from Latin for “a set amount” – this is because much of quantum physics relates to the discovery that properties like energy can occur in set amounts.
Events
He Wātaka
This year schools, museums, universities, businesses and professional institutes will all be exploring the opportunities quantum technologies provide and wanting to share their knowledge. This site will curate and collate their events, so you can get involved wherever you are. Please submit your ideas for events and we can share them in one big calendar.
Resources
Ngā rauemi
Here are a series of links to content for parents, teachers, and industry leaders to share more information about the quantum world.
➔ Click here to view resources
Get involved
Tūhono Mai
This year is all about opening your eyes to the wonderful world of quantum science and technology and inspiring you to share its potential for not only tackling critical societal challenges but for ensuring a secure economic future for Aotearoa NZ.
