Value of setting a national urban research agenda Presentation to NZ Centre for Sustainable Cities workshop by Sarah McDermott 7 th September 2011

Relevance Leads to research that is wanted, demand-pull, maximising benefit for NZ. Coordinated effort to achieve impact. For this need clarity on priorities. What are the big issues for New Zealand? Why is this important – scale of problem or opportunity, implications How can we better apply research already completed - New Zealand and internationally? What are the research gaps and needs (topics, questions)? What type of work should researchers be doing – discovery, tools, communication Special considerations: type of provider, social science aspects, collaboration requirements, iwi/Maori dimensions, cofunding

Government investment by topic area,

Where urban fits for MSI Hazards and Infrastructure appropriation 2011/12 $13.5m pa Previously $26.3m, difference into Core funding for CRIs Approximately half of contracts are maturing in 2012: $2m pa hazards and tectonics $4m pa urban and infrastructure Need to determine priorities for the future investment across the appropriation: Sector Investment Plan for Hazards and Infrastructure Requests for Proposal or similar – specific research questions Blurry boundaries with other funds – energy and minerals, environment, and need to be aware of other funders – TEC, MoT, EQC

MSI strategic documents Hazards and Infrastructure appropriation (Treasury) Scope Research and research applications to support hazard management and improve the durability of NZ urban and rural settlements Particular activities Get an effective understanding and management of risks and hazards with the potential to have a significant economic, social and environmental impact to New Zealand Improve the quality of New Zealand’s urban, peri-urban and rural settlements Includes additional funding related to Christchurch earthquakes

MSI strategic documents What does success look like? (MSI Statement of Intent) Decisions on managing New Zealand’s environment, hazards and infrastructure at both regional and central government level are guided by relevant, high quality and up-to-date information, methodologies and tools. Central and local government agencies use research to identify and plan for over- the-horizon risks and opportunities. New Zealand has improved access to, and makes greater use of, relevant international science, technology and expertise for domestic application and benefit. Annual reporting information shows increases in the levels of formal collaboration by relevant government agencies and regional councils in the research funded by MSI.