Kōkiri AI Lab: Empowering Young Innovators to Shape the Future
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At Kōkiri AI Lab, students gain the skills and confidence to thrive in a world shaped by artificial intelligence and rapid change. Our programmes focus on developing practical capabilities that give young people real agency over their futures.
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We’re building an exciting new programme in Whanganui that blends AI, creativity, and hands-on tech learning for ākonga aged 10–16 — and we’d love your input!
Help shape the Kōkiri AI Lab by completing this quick survey:
Help shape the Kōkiri AI Lab by completing this quick survey:
The Kōkiri AI Lab is evolving in 2025 to deliver a new kind of learning experience for young people aged 13 to 16 in Whanganui. Developed with NZQA-accredited education providers, the Lab will offer microcredential-based programmes that combine technology, creativity, and real-world problem solving. The first courses will begin in early 2026.
These after-school programmes run one evening per week over two terms. Students can earn an NZQA-recognised microcredential in digital technologies, innovation, or sustainable design. Through this process, learners gain the skills needed to thrive in a world shaped by artificial intelligence, rapid innovation, and environmental change.
At Kōkiri AI Lab, students will:
The Lab provides a purpose-built learning space that focuses on equity, engagement, and creativity. Students are supported by experienced tutors and have access to quality digital tools to develop projects that matter to them.
The programme is based on the belief that young people learn best by doing. The structure is clear and supportive but leaves plenty of room for creativity and exploration. Whether it’s building a conservation sensor, creating a circular economy solution, or launching a personal project, students are encouraged to take ownership of their ideas and see them through.
Kōkiri means to move forward with energy and purpose. It reflects our goal to empower young people who are curious, capable, and committed to shaping a better world.
The Kōkiri AI Lab will launch in Whanganui in 2026, with plans to expand to other communities in the future.
If you are an educator, parent, or potential partner interested in supporting this mission, we welcome your kōrero. Together we can co-create the future, one purposeful project at a time.
These after-school programmes run one evening per week over two terms. Students can earn an NZQA-recognised microcredential in digital technologies, innovation, or sustainable design. Through this process, learners gain the skills needed to thrive in a world shaped by artificial intelligence, rapid innovation, and environmental change.
At Kōkiri AI Lab, students will:
- Build real digital capability through coding, prototyping, and AI literacy using tools like Micro:bits, 3D design software, and generative AI platforms.
- Design for impact by tackling sustainability, biodiversity, and climate challenges through design thinking and innovation projects.
- Earn while learning by working towards NZQA microcredentials with support from industry-connected mentors.
- Tell their story through digital storytelling, websites, video pitches, and community showcases.
The Lab provides a purpose-built learning space that focuses on equity, engagement, and creativity. Students are supported by experienced tutors and have access to quality digital tools to develop projects that matter to them.
The programme is based on the belief that young people learn best by doing. The structure is clear and supportive but leaves plenty of room for creativity and exploration. Whether it’s building a conservation sensor, creating a circular economy solution, or launching a personal project, students are encouraged to take ownership of their ideas and see them through.
Kōkiri means to move forward with energy and purpose. It reflects our goal to empower young people who are curious, capable, and committed to shaping a better world.
The Kōkiri AI Lab will launch in Whanganui in 2026, with plans to expand to other communities in the future.
If you are an educator, parent, or potential partner interested in supporting this mission, we welcome your kōrero. Together we can co-create the future, one purposeful project at a time.