AI, Journalism and News Media in Aotearoa New Zealand

This 2026 baseline report on artificial intelligence (AI), journalism, and news media in Aotearoa New Zealand is the first of its kind produced and published by the AUT Journalism, Media and Democracy research centre (JMAD). The report offers a glimpse into New Zealand’s AI-assisted digital news media landscape. The author acknowledges that AI tools, principles, and guidelines are rapidly evolving as new technological tools and services are employed by news media organisations. The report considers some values and risks of AI to news media and journalism, and evaluates ethical and legal issues arising from AI usage. It also explores how AI is used in New Zealand newsrooms, offering some case studies. The report suggests some key policy areas that should be addressed.