Expert Q&A

Can contact sports cause a degenerative brain condition? – Expert Q&A

Expert Q&A | Published: 10 October 2024

Researchers are working to understand how often contact sports like rugby can lead to players developing Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE). The condition […]

The trajectory of te reo Māori – SMC Briefing

Expert Q&A | Published: 17 September 2024

For Te Wiki o te Reo Māori 2024, the Science Media Centre invited journalists to a media briefing with researchers […]

Replacing farms with forests: what’s driving the trend? – SMC Briefing

Expert Q&A | Published: 22 August 2024

New research warns pine forests will increasingly replace productive farmland unless current policies change. Why Pines? is a white paper […]

What does a functioning healthcare system look like? – Expert Q&A

Expert Q&A | Published: 07 August 2024

Amid ongoing news coverage of medical staff shortages and drastic changes to Te Whatu Ora leadership, the SMC asked experts […]

Oil and gas exploration ban reversal – Expert Q&A

Expert Q&A | Published: 11 July 2024

The government intends to reverse the ban on oil and gas exploration beyond onshore Taranaki. The SMC asked experts to comment on the […]

Standardised testing in New Zealand schools – Expert Q&A

Expert Q&A | Published: 19 June 2024

An advisory group for the Minister of Education recommends that students take “checkpoint” tests every year to assess their progress […]

Regulating genetic technologies in Aotearoa – Expert Q&A

Expert Q&A | Published: 15 February 202411 December 2024

The Government plans to overhaul restrictions on the use of gene editing and other genetic technologies in New Zealand, and […]

The science of complexity – Expert Q&A

Expert Q&A | Published: 13 February 202409 February 2024

International researchers specialising in complex systems like disease spread, creativity, and AI ethics are visiting New Zealand. The Capital City […]