Artificial Intelligence in Everyday Life: A Quiet Revolution
Last Updated on April 17, 2025
Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic concept. From public services to education, advertising, and entertainment, AI has begun to weave itself into daily life across the country. Although its integration has been gradual and without major fanfare, its impact on how society functions, particularly in urban hubs like Auckland, is becoming increasingly clear.
In the realm of digital entertainment, AI is playing a pivotal role in enhancing user experiences. Streaming services like Netflix are testing advanced AI-powered recommendation features designed to enhance how users discover movies and shows based on their moods and preferences. This experimental tool, developed in collaboration with OpenAI, is initially available to iPhone users in Australia and New Zealand. Similarly, Amazon Prime Video is introducing “AI Topics,” which use artificial intelligence to recommend groups of content tailored to users’ interests. Music platforms like Spotify also leverage AI to curate personalized playlists, such as “Discover Weekly,” based on individual listening habits.
Even in the world of online entertainment, platforms such as Wildz NZ are applying AI to personalize user experiences. By analyzing playing patterns and user behavior, these systems can adjust content and functionality without human intervention, a growing trend in the digital space aligned with New Zealanders’ demand for intuitive, mobile-first platforms.
Public Sector Innovation: A Digital First Responder
One of the clearest examples of AI adoption in New Zealand’s public sector is “Ella”, the country’s first digital police officer. Introduced in 2020, Ella was designed to engage with citizens at public events and within police stations, answering basic questions and providing assistance. She represents not only a technological step forward but also a broader shift towards service accessibility and efficiency through conversational AI.
New Zealand has also taken a global lead in algorithmic transparency. In 2020, it became the first country to publish a register of high-risk algorithms used across government departments. This initiative was formalised through the introduction of the Algorithm Charter for Aotearoa New Zealand, a document committing public agencies to use algorithms in ways that are fair, transparent, and accountable , a model now cited internationally as a standard for ethical AI governance.
Technology in the Classroom
The education sector has likewise embraced emerging technologies. Across many New Zealand schools, virtual and augmented reality tools are being introduced to complement traditional learning methods. These tools allow students to experience immersive environments, whether walking through ancient cities in history class or simulating chemical reactions in science labs.
Additionally, public institutions like Auckland City Libraries continue to play a key role in supporting digital education, offering community access to online resources and helping bridge the digital divide in underserved neighbourhoods.
AI-driven platforms are also being trialled to provide personalised feedback, helping teachers identify learning gaps earlier. Still, there is ongoing debate among educators and policymakers about where to draw the line between technological support and educational dependency.
Digital Clones and the Future of Advertising
In the private sector, New Zealand has made headlines with the creation of its first AI-generated digital human. Liz Wright, a 64-year-old engineer, agreed to have her likeness turned into a fully functional digital avatar for use in advertising. Her clone, capable of interacting with audiences in real time, marked a new chapter in how commercial messaging is produced and delivered.
While still experimental, this approach raises important ethical questions. What rights do individuals retain over their digital identities? And how do such representations influence the authenticity of advertising?
A Cautious Embrace
Surveys show that New Zealanders generally support AI innovation, particularly when it improves services or efficiency. However, there is also growing unease about data privacy, job displacement, and the potential for bias in automated decision-making.
A recent report found that citizens in New Zealand and Australia are among the most cautious globally when it comes to AI adoption, especially in sensitive sectors like healthcare and finance. This cautious optimism is likely to shape how the country continues to regulate and deploy AI over the coming decade.
Looking Ahead
New Zealand’s approach to artificial intelligence so far reflects a balance between innovation and responsibility. Public sector transparency, strong digital infrastructure, and a willingness to trial new technologies have positioned the country as a thoughtful early adopter.
Yet the success of AI will ultimately depend on how well it is aligned with local values , fairness, openness, and inclusion. As AI becomes more deeply embedded in everything from transport systems to customer service, maintaining public trust will be key. Whether through regulatory frameworks, public education, or ethical design, New Zealand has an opportunity to lead not just in how AI is used, but in how it is used well.
