The AI Mirag from madame Collins

Fasten your seatbelts as we embark on a whimsical journey through the labyrinthine corridors of New Zealand’s latest AI strategy. Presented with the pomp of a royal decree, the government’s document pledges to catapult the nation into the stratosphere of technological innovation and economic prosperity. But is it merely a mirage in the tech desert?

The strategy promises to sprinkle the fairy dust of Artificial Intelligence across various sectors, expecting productivity blooms and economic growth miracles. By adopting a "come one, come all" light-touch regulatory approach, New Zealand positions itself as the new darling of the tech world, eager to dance at every international AI ball from Seoul to San Francisco.

Yet, amidst the glittering generalities and optimistic overtures, one can’t help but notice that the Emperor—or Minister, in this case—is parading a bit underdressed. Let’s peel back the layers of this onion without crying too much over the missed opportunities.

First Act: A Touch Too Light on Regulation

The document champions a laissez-faire approach to AI regulation, akin to giving a teenager the keys to a sports car with a wink and a nod. While fostering innovation is commendable, the strategy's over-reliance on self-regulation for a technology as potent and unpredictable as AI seems as wise as a screen door on a submarine. Consumer protection, ethical governance, and public safety appear to be afterthoughts—casualties in the rush towards innovation.

Second Act: The Great AI Skills Vanishing Trick

Next, the strategy bravely acknowledges the AI skills shortage but does so with the gusto of someone promising to diet "starting tomorrow." The underestimation of the scale and complexity of upskilling a nation to handle AI technologies is as baffling as trying to fill a swimming pool with a teaspoon. Without a concrete, actionable plan for developing these critical skills, the strategy’s goals are as elusive as a unicorn in a city park.

Third Act: Employment Displacement—The Elephant in the Room

And then there’s the juggernaut rolling silently through the room—job displacement due to AI advancements. The strategy tiptoes around this elephant with all the grace of a ballet dancer wearing clown shoes. Without strategic foresight and planning, the economic disruptions could leave more than a few Kiwis not just jobless but also hopeless.

Curtain Call: Revising the Script

As we draw the curtains on this critique, let’s not resign ourselves to despair. New Zealand has the potential to be a global leader in responsible AI deployment. But to do so, we must demand a strategy that is as robust in protecting our society as it is ambitious in enhancing our economy. Let’s rewrite the script to include comprehensive regulations, a realistic plan for skill development, and proactive measures to handle employment shifts.

Dear policymakers, it’s time to dress the Emperor in something more substantial than optimistic projections and well-meaned intentions. After all, in the grand theatre of global technology, New Zealand deserves a standing ovation, not a polite clap for a performance that’s all show and no substance.

Shall we settle for the illusion, or shall we demand the reality we truly deserve? The stage is set, and the world is watching. Let's make sure it’s a show worth remembering.

Have a great AI-filled week.

Ngā mihi

Jussi