Auckland, 09 July 2004 - The New Zealand Innovation Festival 2004 (www.nzinnovation.org ) is entering its final stages, however, some exciting new events are still to open over the coming days:

e-Centre Innovation Open Day - Auckland
(July 14, 2.00 pm - 6.00 pm, e-centre, Gate 5, Oaklands Rd, Massey University, Albany, Auckland) An exhibition by e-centre resident companies on products developed at the e-centre.

Massey University Product Development, Robotics and Mechatronics Exhibition - Auckland
(July 14, 2.00 pm - 6.00 pm, e-centre, Gate 5, Oaklands Rd, Massey University, Albany, Auckland) An exhibition by the Massey University Product Development / Robotics / Mechatronics Faculties.

Cooperative Research Clusters and Technology Parks Forum - Auckland
(July 16, 3.00 pm - 6.00 pm, University of Auckland Tamaki Campus Video Linked Theatre, Morrin Road, Glen Innes, Auckland) Industry sector leaders, Government representatives, CRI leaders and University researchers will take part in this workshop to discuss the implications of Auckland's economic development.

Release of Innovation Survey 2003 Report
On 21 July 2004, Statistics NZ will be releasing a detailed report from the Innovation Survey 2003. The Innovation Survey is designed to develop an understanding of the contribution of technological innovation to the New Zealand economy by producing current and meaningful statistics on the level and characteristics of innovative activity carried out by New Zealand businesses.

Innovation Voyage - Auckland
(July 23, 9.00 am - 5.00 pm, Aotea Centre) The summit, hosted by EMA Northern, will showcase some of New Zealand's most successful innovators and offer practical solutions to New Zealand companies by showing how to nurture kiwi ingenuity through innovation and new product development

CONTINUING:

NZX Listing Seminars - Christchurch
(July 13, 4.00 pm - 5.30 pm, The George, 50 Park Terrace, Christchurch) Previous seminars have proven popular with innovative companies looking for low-cost ways to raise capital. This seminar will be hosted by the NZX, ABN AMRO and solicitors Duncan Cotterill, and will inform companies about the process of listing and the benefits of the alternative market (NZAX).

Fisher and Paykel Healthcare Innovation - Auckland Museum
Closes July 11 - this exhibition showcases Fisher and Paykel's innovation process from inventing the dehumidifier in 1971 to groundbreaking technology leading the way in global markets including incubators and other breathing related apparatus.

The Manawatu Science Festival - Palmerston North
Closes July 11 - this festival is a celebration of science and technology at Te Manawa museum in Palmerston North featuring children's talks, displays and hands-on demonstrations hosted by Manawatu science, engineering and technology-based organisations.

An Exhibition of Students Studying Fine Arts - Christchurch
(Until July 16, 9.00 am - 5.00 pm, D&A Gallery, 130 Hereford St, Christchurch) Fine Arts students in their third year studying for an Advanced Diploma of Art are having their mid year exhibition.

An Exhibition of Students Studying Communications Art Design - Christchurch
(Until July 16, 9.00 am - 5.00 pm, Creations Gallery, 105 Worchester St, Christchurch) Students from the Diploma of Communication Arts Design are exhibiting examples of student campaign and media graphic design work.

To see what other events are being held in your region go to the NZ innovation website. (www.nzinnovation.org )

Media contacts:

Julien Leys, Hill & Knowlton, (09) 367 6370, Mobile 021 655 598, Email julien.leys@hillandknowlton.com and

Sarah Bowman, General Manager, New Zealand Innovation Festival
(09) 968 8146. Mobile 021 455 226, Email: sarah@nzinnovation.org ;

About the Festival:
New Zealand Innovation is a non-profit, entrepreneurial operation relying on the support of key partners and associates including Cap Gemini New Zealand, Hill & Knowlton, Qantas, and HP. An Advisory Council co-chaired by Peter Biggs of the Growth and Innovation Advisory Board and David Parker, MP for Otago brings exceptional experience in different areas of New Zealand business and the community.

The idea for the Festival is based on a very successful model in Australia, which is now in its third year (www.innovationfestival.com.au). In 2004 the Australian festival engaged a wide audience with over 500 events showcasing innovation in every state.

ENDS

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