Ngā pokapū, whare mātauranga me ngā heamana Research institutes, centres and chairs

Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington hosts a wide range of research institutes, centres, and chairs that explore the issues shaping our future.

From climate and health to culture, technology and society, our research groups collaborate, innovate, and share their expertise with partners and communities.  Together, our research institutes, centres, chairs and hosted partnerships strengthen New Zealand’s research ecosystem while amplifying global reach and impact.

Our research institutes

Victoria University of Wellington is home to a set of world‑class research institutes that exemplify research excellence, leadership, and real‑world impact. Our institutes bring together leading scholars, advanced infrastructure, and strong international networks to tackle some of the most significant scientific and societal challenges facing Aotearoa New Zealand and the world.

Featured research centres and chairs

Across the University, specialist research centres and chairs bring together expert teams to tackle complex challenges and create real‑world change. These are just some of our centres and chairs that demonstrate the strength and impact you can find in our high-quality research community.

You can find out more about research centres and chairs in each of the Faculties or you can browse our list.

Explore the list of research centres and chairs

Hosted partnerships

We host a range of nationally and internationally significant research partnerships that extend our research capability and connect our expertise with the wider research system. These partnerships bring together universities, research organisations, government and industry to tackle complex challenges and accelerate the translation of research into real‑world impact.

By hosting dedicated research institutes and platforms, the University provides an environment that supports excellence, collaboration and innovation. For researchers and students, these partnerships offer access to specialised infrastructure, interdisciplinary networks and unique training opportunities. For government and industry, they provide trusted pathways to cutting‑edge research, talent, and evidence‑based solutions that support policy development, technological advancement and economic growth.