New research from the 2025 World Internet Project

New Zealanders are becoming increasingly tense, sceptical, and cautious about their online lives ,from fears about AI and misinformation to concerns about privacy, social media, and the environmental impact of digital tech. The […]


New Zealanders are becoming increasingly tense, sceptical, and cautious about their online lives ,from fears about AI and misinformation to concerns about privacy, social media, and the environmental impact of digital tech. The AUT-led study, commissioned by InternetNZ, reveals deep unease about whether AI can be regulated, widespread distrust of online information, and growing support for stronger oversight of big platforms.For Māori, these issues sit alongside long-standing equity gaps and the need for digital spaces that uphold tino rangatiratanga, cultural safety, and trustworthy information.

Author

    Radio Waatea is Auckland’s only Māori radio station that provides an extensive bi-lingual broadcast to its listeners. Based at Nga Whare Waatea marae in Mangere, it is located in the middle of the biggest Māori population in Aotearoa.