Wild About AI is an educational programme about environmental conservation and digital technology.
Toitū te marae a Tāne, toitū te marae a Tangaroa, toitū te tangata.
If the land is well and the sea is well, the people will thrive.
Wild About AI empowers ākonga (students) to explore the powerful connection between digital technologies and te taiao (the natural world)—particularly our marine environments in Aotearoa New Zealand.
The programme blends digital technology with environmental conservation, taking ākonga on a journey from learning about Aotearoa’s marine biodiversity to building their own AI models to identify fish.
Wild About AI is designed with Aotearoa’s unique biodiversity and cultural perspectives in mind. The program encourages learners to explore how AI can be used to support conservation and environmental protection. By combining science, technology, and te ao Māori, Wild About AI empowers students to become informed kaitiaki (guardians) of te taiao (the environment).
creativity, and creating a better future for our planet.
Wild About AI has increased the digital capabilities and improved ecological awareness of hundreds of students.
See some examples of the program:
The programme is delivered as a comprehensive, standalone online resource that empowers teachers to lead engaging lessons on AI and conservation. This innovative model, which includes six curriculum-aligned lessons, enhances teacher capability and reduces classroom preparation time.
Students make a tangible impact on conservation by applying their skills to real-world challenges. Using the SpyFish Aotearoa citizen scientist platform, students have analysed underwater footage from local marine reserves. So far, students have identified nearly 3,000 fish, contributing vital data for monitoring the health of marine ecosystems around the Taranaki coast.
Meet our rangers, alumni and project collaborators.
Meet our partners and sponsors making this project possible.
PROJECT NEWS
Empowering Future Minds for a Sustainable Aotearoa
Our Wild About AI: Future Minds – Connecting AI and Te Taiao o Moana programme is ready to prepare the next generation with indispensable skills for navigating and shaping a sustainable future. The program is designed for Ākonga (students) aged 10-14 years old to comprehend how AI can significantly enhance te taiao (the natural environment). Focussed on Taranaki's marine environments, the program underscores the importance of actively monitoring, celebrating, and safeguarding our unique ecosystems.
Wildlife.ai Product Showcase – March 2025
On March 31, the Wildlife.ai team gathered again for the monthly Product Showcase, sharing updates, challenges, and collaborative successes across three key projects: Wildlife Watcher, Spyfish Aotearoa, and Wild About AI.
Wildlife.ai Product Showcase – February 26, 2025
On February 26, 15 team members gathered for the Wildlife.ai Product Showcase to share project updates, discuss challenges, and strengthen collaboration. The session featured an update on Wildlife Watcher and presentations on Spyfish [...]
