Repositioning AERU to deliver leading-edge research

AERU was one of New Zealand’s first applied economics consultancies, established in 1962 by the New Zealand Government, with a vision to produce and deliver new knowledge that promotes sustainable wellbeing.

AERU’s research focuses on economic, resource, environmental and social issues, providing research expertise for a wide range of regional, national and international organisations in the public and private sector. Its research projects are all funded from external sources.

Lincoln University Provost, Professor Chad Hewitt, said the decision to integrate AERU into the Faculty would ensure the continued success of AERU as a trusted brand within an increasingly constrained funding environment.

“As a Lincoln University Research Centre, AERU will be able to continue its work to deliver leading-edge research that is relevant and critical for the success of New Zealand’s land-based sectors.

“Importantly, the revised structure will enable AERU’s team of senior and emerging researchers to build on that earned trust and continue their valuable work.”

Professor Hewitt also pointed to the significance of the AERU brand for Lincoln University’s reputation as Aotearoa’s only specialist university focusing on the land-based sector.

“In 2024 our postgraduate students made up 45% of our total student population, signalling the University’s status as a research-intensive university intent on playing a leading role in advancing Aotearoa New Zealand’s land-based sectors towards a more resilient and sustainable future.

“With AERU’s work now contributing directly to the reputation, outcomes and expertise of the wider Lincoln University research community, we are even more strongly positioned to play a lead role in addressing the major productivity, economic, environmental and social issues that challenge our land-based sectors now and in the future.”

AERU is co-directed by Lincoln University’s Distinguished Professor Caroline Saunders and Professor Paul Dalziel, both of whom will retire from Lincoln University in December 2024.

AERU’s recent research projects include New Zealand Agribusiness Climate Change Report prepared for Westpac, Unlocking Export Prosperity – a five-year research programme for the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), and Maximising Export Returns, also funded by MBIE.

AERU formally becomes a Lincoln University Research Centre on 1 January 2025, and Professor Alan Renwick will take up the position of Acting Director.

Professor Renwick emphasised that integrating AERU into the Faculty of Agribusiness and Commerce will strategically benefit the University.

“AERU has an established history and renowned research capability with extensive industry networks and considerable substance and momentum. The expertise and specialist skills of the AERU team will significantly strengthen the Faculty’s purpose and reputation.

“Likewise, with the University providing financial, administrative and institutional support, the AERU Research Centre will be even better positioned to deliver new knowledge that promotes sustainable economic wellbeing for New Zealand.”