Solve It

Dive into Solve It, the fast-paced innovation sprint where your ideas meet real-world challenges posed by leading Kiwi organisations. This is your chance to think creatively, ideate boldly, and create solutions that use technology to make the world a better place.

No prior experience in technology, entrepreneurship, or business? No problem! All you need is a curious mind and a passion for creative problem-solving. Along the way, you’ll gain friends, professional contacts, and even compete for $20,000 in cash prizes!

At the start of the programme, you’ll team up with students from across the University who, like you, are ready to make a difference. Together, you’ll tackle a challenge provided by Solve It’s professional partners, gaining insights and real-world context as you go.

CIE’s programmes are free for University of Auckland students and staff. These co-curricular programmes help develop innovation and entrepreneurship skills alongside formal studies. While there are no formal assessments, participation may count towards the co-curricular recognition programme and the Distinguished Graduate Award.

How would you Solve It for the ultimate fan experience?

As New Zealand’s national stadium, Eden Park has played a massive role as the home of community engagement, contributing over $1 billion to the economy since 2011 and bringing people together through unforgettable moments. Now, they’re asking: what’s next?

How might we reimagine live events to take the fan experience to the next level?

From connection to celebration, Eden Park wants to create a stadium experience where every fan feels like they belong. Whether it’s before the event, in the crowd, or beyond the final applause - how can we make it more immersive, inclusive and memorable?

Solution sponsor: Eden Park

How would you Solve It for physical accessibility?

In Aotearoa New Zealand, nearly two-thirds of disabled people rely on assistive technology or equipment to navigate daily life. Yet too often, our public spaces, workplaces and infrastructure fall short, limiting access to full participation in our communities.

What could a truly inclusive Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland look like?

Permobil wants to hear your ideas to design better systems, services, and spaces that remove barriers and support physical accessibility for everyone.

Solution sponsor: Permobil

How would you Solve It to stay ahead of the next flood?

When floodwaters rise, they don’t just wash away roads and buildings, they disrupt lives and livelihoods. The 2023 Anniversary Weekend floods in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland caused billions in damage and revealed how vulnerable our community can be.

How might we design smarter, more resilient ways to protect what we care about most, before the next storm hits?

AA Insurance is looking for innovative ideas to help Auckland prepare, adapt and respond to severe weather. From technology to infrastructure to community-led action, how can we make sure our people and places are ready for what’s next?

Solution sponsor: AA Insurance

How would you Solve It by using mobile tech to make life better?

From high-performance cameras to AI tools and accessibility features, Samsung phones are packed with potential. But how can we tap into that tech to create real-world impact?

How might we use mobile technology to solve everyday challenges, spark creativity, or just make life a little more fun?

Samsung is challenging you to explore what’s possible. Whether it’s about wellbeing, connection, or productivity, what fresh ideas could you bring to life using the power already in your pocket?

Solution sponsor: Samsung

Solve It, your way: Learn how to stand out, create value, and set yourself up to make an impact in the future.

Find your people: Collaborate with a diverse group of students from across campus, united by a shared passion for positive change.

Build your network: Connect with mentors, entrepreneurs, business leaders, and social innovators.

Learn by doing: Dive into hands-on learning by solving real-life challenges from New Zealand organisations.

Broaden your perspective: Open your mind to new insights, expand your knowledge, and discover your innovative potential.

Be recognised: Earn credits through the University’s Co-curricular Recognition Programme towards a Distinguished Graduate Award.

Entrepreneurial thinking: Understand and apply methods for creating and refining innovative ideas.

Design thinking: Demonstrate familiarity with ‘Design Thinking’ concepts and apply them to solve problems.

Prototyping basics: Explore technology for fabrication and visualise your solutions.

Pitching skills: Learn how to confidently present and sell your ideas.
Interpersonal skills: Build teamwork and communication skills to share your vision with senior leaders and stakeholders.

Collaboration and networking: Build connections with like-minded peers, fostering teamwork and a shared passion for making a positive difference in the world.

Duration: One week full-time during the mid-semester break.
Commitment: Estimated 40 hours per week.
In-person sessions: 9am-5pm Monday 1 September-Friday 5 September

If you have questions about the programme, please contact cie_programmes@auckland.ac.nz

The Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship provides a world of opportunity to participants so that they can stand out and create value through innovative careers and start-up creation.

CIE is New Zealand’s leading University entrepreneurship centre, winning 12 international awards since 2020.