Having just returned from a huge conference on AI in New Zealand I thought readers might be interested in hearing what our local AI experts might think about the powers of AI to lead to human extinction. The answer is a resounding no. No, they are not thinking about human extinction and no, they are not thinking about slowing the development and implementation of AI in our every day lives. The conference attendees from all sectors of government, commerce and developers were overwhelmingly positive about its benefits, especially as a chance to build globally significant companies, solve unique challenges and shape New Zealand’s development with “one of the most consequential technological challenges in history”. Wow!
As independent observers, what questions should we be asking, bearing in mind this optimistic approach from government, commerce and policy makers?
As a doctoral student, I’m keen to hear what questions about AI you would like answered.
If you send your questions about the future with AI technology, through the Upper Hutt Connection, I will try to answer them in plain English. And if you would like me to come and talk to your community group, contact me directly.
Heather Newell, doctoral student and AI educator
ph 027 276 2730
A “thank you” to Heather Newell for sending this article to The Upper Hutt Connection.
21/09/26
The Upper Hutt Connection 