New Zealand has always been a country that nurtures creativity and ingenuity among its people. People who think outside the box are appreciated and celebrated here.
A nation rich in innovative history, its impact can be traced among every part of human civilization, from agriculture to medicine, engineering to technology, and pretty much any other sectors you can think of.
New Zealanders have been at the forefront of many important innovations that have changed and shaped humanity into what it is today.
Today, we’re going to take a look at some important innovations from New Zealand, and some prominent Kiwi figures who inspire innovators all around the globe.
Some Important Innovations from New Zealand That Changed the World
Let’s talk about several fields where the contribution of Kiwi innovators changed the world and continues to do so.
Shaping the World of Medicine
New Zealand-born scientists Maurice Wilkins, John Kendrew, and Max Perutz were awarded the 1962 Nobel Prize in Physiology, or Medicine, for their work on the structure of biological macromolecules, specifically nucleic acids.
Their research laid the foundation for modern molecular biology and genetic research, which has led to new treatments and therapies for many diseases. Today’s medicine wouldn’t be possible without their contribution.
Pioneering Renewable Energy and Fighting Climate Change
New Zealand is one of the world’s leading producers of geothermal energy, which is generated by harnessing the energy spewed by Mother Earth. It’s one of a few countries that generates more than 15% of its total electricity from geothermal energy sources.
A New Zealand-based company, Fluid Design, has developed a new type of wind turbine that is more efficient and can be made at a lower cost than traditional turbines. This can potentially make wind power plants more affordable and accessible.
The New Zealand-based company LanzaTech has developed a breakthrough process for converting carbon-rich gases into ethanol and other valuable chemicals.
These ideas can help humankind in its fight against climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Innovative Ideas in the World of Transportation
Bruce Leslie McLaren, a Kiwi engineer, and innovator, is still remembered today for his contribution to car technology. And his name has stayed with the automotive and sports-racing brand, McLaren, the most successful team in Formula One championship history.
Bill Hamilton, a New Zealand engineer, developed the Hamilton Jet, a propulsion system that is widely used today in high-speed boats and other watercraft. This innovation has led to faster and more efficient water transportation, having a significant impact on industries such as tourism and shipping.
Gibbs Amphibians, an automotive brand from New Zealand, is the current leader in high-speed amphibious vehicles in the market.
Prominent Innovators from New Zealand Who Shaped the World as It Is
Here are some prominent New Zealanders whose creativity and important innovations shaped the world as it is.
Colin Murdoch
Murdoch, pharmacist and inventor, owner of 46 patents, used to wake up from dreams with innovative ideas floating in his mind. He is best known for inventing the disposable hypodermic syringe, the plastic disposable dropper, and the child-resistant safety cap, among many other useful things.
Before, syringes were made of glass and had to be sterilised after each use, which was time-consuming and ineffective. Murdoch’s disposable syringe greatly reduced the risk of infection and is still used worldwide.
Murdoch also invented the plastic dropper and the child-resistant safety cap, commonly used everywhere today.
Sir Ernest Rutherford
One of the most prominent nuclear physicists in history, Sir Ernest Rutherford, won the Nobel Prize in 1908 for his work on the disintegration of the elements and the chemistry of radioactive substances. He discovered the nucleus of atoms, among other important scientific innovations.
His works laid the foundation for today’s nuclear physics, and the nuclear energy tech stands on his groundwork.
Richard Pearse
He is credited for building and flying one of the world’s first aeroplanes. He pioneered aviation and propelled it into the future, leaving his mark on history.
Sir Peter Jackson
Last but not least, Sir Peter Jackson, known to the world as a master filmmaker of the twenty-first century, enriched and transformed filmmaking with his innovative use of visual effects technologies. What he achieved with the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit trilogies set a new standard for special effects and motion capture and changed the film industry forever.
A Note Before We End…
From the early days of Richard Pearse and his aeroplane to the latest technology developed by RocketLab and Robotic Skies, New Zealanders have shown that their ingenuity and creativity are not limited by the relatively small size of their population.
With a supportive environment for startups, a focus on science and technology, and a community that inspires and encourages creative thinkers, New Zealand is set to continue to be a leader in innovation and a source of important contributions to the world.