Out of the Blue
Description
Discover what’s happening across New Zealand’s blue economy.
New technologies, research and ambitious ventures are creating opportunities for industry, investment and collaboration.
Out of the Blue brings it all together.
Join us in Nelson to see what's happening, what's coming next and who's driving it forward, from research reaching commercial markets to emerging technologies being adopted by industry.
Presented by Ocean Impact Organisation (OIO) and Moananui as part of BlueStart Aotearoa, the event brings together founders, industry, researchers and investors for an evening showcasing innovation in action, including the first BlueStart Velocity cohort pitching their ventures to visiting international investors.
With Blue House only opening its doors at the end of March and the first BlueStart cohort now reaching this milestone, it's a chance to celebrate just how much has been achieved in such a short time.
Agenda
- 3:30 pm - 4:00 pm
Demo Floor opens
Explore startup, research and industry showcases as the demo floor opens.
- 4:00 pm - 4:10 pm
Welcome
Opening remarks on New Zealand's blue economy and innovation ecosystem.
- 4:10 pm - 4:55 pm
From Research to Market panel
Two stories of research reaching commercial application: FLOMO and Ocean Intelligence.
- 4:55 pm - 5:05 pm
Unmanned Vessels: Shaping the Rules Together
How New Zealand organisations are collaborating to advance unmanned vessel technology.
- 5:05 pm - 5:40 pm
BlueStart Velocity Pitches
Five emerging ventures present their technologies and growth opportunities.
- 5:40 pm - 6:20 pm
Industry Panel
Capital meets Industry
- 6:20 pm - 6:30 pm
Closing
Formal program concludes.
- 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Networking, Canapés & Drinks
Meet founders, investors, researchers and industry representatives. The demo floor remains open.
What to Expect
From Research to Market
Real examples of New Zealand research becoming commercial ventures and technologies adopted by industry, including FLOMO and Ocean Intelligence. Hear about the decisions, challenges and collaborations behind commercialisation.
Unmanned Vessel Collaboration
A short look at how organisations across New Zealand are working together to advance capability in unmanned and autonomous vessel technology.
BlueStart Velocity Founder Pitches
Hear from founders developing new solutions for the blue economy as they pitch their ventures to investors.
Investor Panel
Hear investors’ perspectives on opportunities in the blue economy and what they look for in emerging ventures.
Demo Floor at Blue House
Get up close to emerging blue economy technologies, with live demonstrations and innovations on display.
Networking
Connect with founders, researchers, industry and investors over drinks and canapés.
Who Should Attend
Out of the Blue welcomes:
Industry and businesses exploring new technologies, solutions and partnerships
Researchers and innovators working to bring ideas into practical use
Founders and startups connecting with industry and investors
Investors and funders interested in blue economy ventures
Government, councils and economic development organisations supporting innovation
Anyone interested in the future of New Zealand’s blue economy
Good to Know
Registration
Free general admission. Please register in advance.
When
Wednesday 2 December 2026, 3:30–8:00 pm.
Where
Blue House, 125 Vickerman Street, Port Nelson.
Accessibility
Please let us know about any accessibility requirements when registering.
Hosted by: Ocean Impact Organisation (OIO) and Moananui
As part of: BlueStart Aotearoa
Supported by: Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), Whakatupu Aotearoa Foundation, Blue House, Kernohan Engineering and Nelson Regional Development Agency (NRDA).
Hosted By
As a part of
Supported by
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