The University of Canterbury has been formally accepted as an Essential Participant in the Cooperative Research Centre for Spatial Information.  The New Zealand node of the Australian-based CRCSI was established in 2010 and is based in the New Zealand Geospatial Office.  With LINZ as New Zealand's "anchor" government participant, and a growing number of local private sector participants (who are members of 43pl, the industry consortium), we are excited to have the University be our "anchor" research participant. Their participation will help build a strong hub in NZ for CRCSI's applied spatial research underpinning economic growth, and contribute to spatial science capability growth in New Zealand.

There is a strong alignment between the University's strengths and the CRCSI's research programmes, including Spatial Infrastructures, Health, and Agriculture/Natural Resources/Climate Change.

Wendy Lawson, Dean of Science and Department of Geography says, "We are very excited to be a part of the CRCSI network, and look forward to engaging in new applied spatial science research with government and industry partners and research collaborators that will underpin economic growth and ensure effective use of public resources in NZ - as well as assist with the Christchurch re-build. Our CRCSI membership builds on our other recent and leading developments in spatial sciences, including the launch of the first Masters in Geographic Information Science in NZ in 2011, which is being delivered collaboratively with Victoria University of Wellington."

Colin MacDonald, Chief Executive of LINZ says, "... as a well connected organisation, the University's active involvement will have a positive influence on those key government and private sector organisations who are developing their own cases for joining the CRCSI."

Simon Jellie, Managing Director of e-Spatial Limited and 43pl Board Member says, "the University of Canterbury is exhibiting a commitment to capacity building and research in the spatial sector.  The relationships that develop from a long term commitment to CRCSI will, from an industry perspective, ensure that research remains relevant and that graduates are equipped with the skills required to meet market demands."

By joining the CRCSI, the University will strengthen its leadership position in applied spatial science, both nationally and on the international stage, as well as provide new expertise and potential collaborations with existing CRCSI participants.

If you wish to find out more about the CRCSI, please contact me on +64 4 460 1088 or by email on msevern@linz.govt.nz.

Mary Sue Severn

Director CRCSI New Zealand
New Zealand Geospatial Office