Purpose and scope
This position statement sets out the Publishers Association of New Zealand – Te Rau o Tākupu (PANZ) view on the development and use of artificial intelligence (AI), including generative AI, and it implications for publishing, authors, mātauranga Māori, copyright, and the public interest. It is intended to guide PANZ advocacy and engagement, and to express the values that underpin the publishing sector in Aotearoa New Zealand.
PANZ Values
The PANZ approach to AI is grounded in the following principles:
- Respect for human creativity – recognising the rights and contributions of authors, illustrators, and all creative professionals across the publishing ecosystem.
- Commitment to the rule of law – including the application of New Zealand’s copyright legislation.
- Transparency and accountability – supporting clarity about how AI systems are developed and used.
- Te Tiriti o Waitangi – acknowledging its status as a foundational document and the need to actively protect Māori taonga, including mātauranga Māori.
- Responsible innovation – supporting the development and use of technologies that enhance reading, learning, and knowledge creation.
AI and publishing
PANZ recognises that AI technologies offer opportunities to support accessibility, discoverability, efficiency, and innovation across the publishing sector.
At the same time, AI raises important questions about the use of creative works, the integrity of published content, and the sustainability of creative industries. These issues are evolving, and responses will continue to develop over time.
Publishers are adopting AI in a range of ways across their operations and creative processes. These approaches will differ between organisations, reflecting their individual contexts, capabilities, and values.
Legal and ethical foundations
PANZ affirms that existing New Zealand law, including the Copyright Act 1994, applies in the context of AI.
The association supports approaches to AI development and use that are consistent with:
- the rights of creators and rightsholders
- established copyright principles
- New Zealand’s international obligations
PANZ also recognises the particular importance of protecting Māori cultural and intellectual property. The use of Māori language, knowledge, and creative works in AI contexts requires careful consideration and engagement, consistent with Te Tiriti o Waitangi and the protection of taonga.
PANZ engages with sector organisations and relevant guidance, including that of Copyright Licensing New Zealand (CLNZ), the New Zealand Society of Authors (NZSA), the International Publishers Association (IPA), and the New Zealand Government[1].
[1] https://www.mbie.govt.nz/assets/responsible-ai-guidance-for-businesses.pdf
PANZ perspective
PANZ recognises that copyright underpins reading, learning, cultural life, and public trust, and that human creativity and technological innovation are complementary.
PANZ supports the development and use of AI in ways that:
- uphold the rights and interests of creators and publishers
- operate within established legal frameworks
- ensure transparency and accountability
- contribute positively to Aotearoa New Zealand’s cultural, educational, and economic life.
PANZ considers that sustainable innovation in AI and a strong creative sector are interconnected and best supported by clear, trusted, and lawful frameworks.
Conclusion
PANZ supports a future in which AI contributes positively to Aotearoa New Zealand’s cultural, educational, and economic life. That future depends on respect for creators, publishers, Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and the rule of law.
PANZ will continue to advocate for AI systems that are fair, transparent, lawful, and aligned with the public interest.
