Exploring Innovation in Marlborough at Techweek25!

Marlborough Techweek25: Innovation Rooted in Community

Marlborough is set to shine during Techweek25, with a dynamic lineup of events that spotlight innovation, entrepreneurship, and digital inclusion. From Kaikōura to Blenheim, this year’s programme is a true reflection of Te Tauihu’s collaborative spirit—bringing together educators, startups, engineers, investors, and creatives to explore how technology can empower our communities.

Here’s a look at the standout events happening across the region:

 

 

🧠 AI Tools for Education & Productivity

Organised by: REAP Marlborough & ACE Aotearoa
Facilitator: Tai Samaeli

Educators, tutors, and volunteers in adult and community learning won’t want to miss this hands-on workshop exploring how AI tools like ChatGPT can enhance teaching and streamline communication. Led by experienced educator Tai Samaeli, this session dives into practical ways AI can support lesson planning, assessments, and learner engagement. Bring your device and get ready to experiment with tools that can make your teaching more efficient and impactful.

• Kaikōura: Mon 19 May, 3:30–5:30pm – Te Hā o Mātauranga
• Blenheim: Wed 21 May, 2:30–4:30pm – REAP Marlborough
• Picton: Date & location TBC
  Free | Register online

🚀 Startup Mixer

Organised by: Business Trust Marlborough

Whether you’re building a startup, thinking about launching one, or just curious about Marlborough’s innovation scene, the Startup Mixer is the place to be. This relaxed, social event brings together founders, creatives, and change-makers for networking, storytelling, and inspiration over drinks and snacks.

• Tuesday 20 May, 5:30–7:30pm
• Location: Te Au Pūngao, Level 1, 33 Arthur Street
  Free | RSVP via Email

🧪 Wonder Project: Engineering & Tech Workshop

Facilitated by: Beca

This full-day STEM experience is designed for secondary school students and hosted by professional engineers from Beca. Students will explore civil, structural, transport, and geotechnical engineering through real-world challenges and digital innovation demos—think VR walkthroughs, Digital Twins, and 3D scanning tech.

• Wednesday 21 May, 9:30am–3:00pm
• Location: Te Au Pūngao
  Schools Only | Fully Booked

🎤 AIM Pitch Night

Organised by: Angel Investors Marlborough

The region’s biggest startup pitch event returns! Founders take the stage to pitch their ventures to real investors, followed by Q&A and networking. Whether you’re an investor, mentor, or just curious about the region’s startup buzz, this is your chance to see innovation in action.

• Wednesday 21 May, 5:30pm
• Location: Blenheim Club
  Free | More info online

🌿 Investment Journeys: Puro’s Story

Speaker: Sank Macfarlane, CEO/Founder of Puro

Puro has raised over $28M to grow Marlborough’s medicinal cannabis industry. Join founder Sank Macfarlane for a candid storytelling session about investment, iwi partnerships, crowdfunding, and scaling an agri-tech venture from the ground up.

• Thursday 22 May, 8:30–9:30am (Networking to follow)
• Location: Te Au Pūngao
  Free | Register via Humanitix by 15 May

✨ Showcase Open Night

Organised by: Te Au Pūngao

Drop in and explore Marlborough’s innovation hub! Robotics, 3D printing, digital fabrication, and more—see the tools and meet the people shaping the region’s tech future.

• Friday 23 May, 5:30–7:30pm
• Location: Te Au Pūngao, Level 1, 33 Arthur Street
  Free | All welcome

💖 I ❤ Algorithms

Organised by: For Good Studio

This inclusive workshop is designed for women curious about how tech works—and how they can shape it. Through games, group discussion, and creative problem-solving, you’ll explore machine learning, design thinking, and the ethics of algorithms—no coding experience required.

• Saturday 24 May, 10am–1pm
• Location: Te Au Pūngao
  Free | Childcare Available | Register online

 

From hands-on AI and engineering workshops to investment stories and startup networking, Marlborough Techweek25 has something for everyone. Explore the full programme and discover how technology is shaping the future of Te Tauihu.

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