What Is Christchurch AI? Canterbury's Monthly AI Meetup Explained

If you have heard about the Christchurch Artificial Intelligence meetup and wondered what it actually is, this is your guide.

The Short Version

Christchurch AI is a free monthly meetup for anyone interested in artificial intelligence. We meet at EPIC Innovation Centre in Christchurch's CBD for regular monthly events. Each event features two speakers, drinks, and time to connect with the people building and thinking about AI in Canterbury.

Who Comes?

• Business leaders exploring practical AI adoption
• Developers and engineers building with LLMs and automation tools
• Researchers and academics from University of Canterbury and Lincoln University
• Founders using AI in their products
• Marketers and communicators navigating AI in their industries
• Curious beginners who just want to understand what is going on

What Happens at an Event?

• 5:30 to 6:00 PM — Drinks and networking
• 6:00 to 6:45 PM — First speaker
• 6:45 to 7:30 PM — Second speaker
• 7:30 to 8:00 PM — Open Q&A and more networking

Who Runs It?

The meetup is organised by Caelan Huntress of the AI Coaching Academy, which sponsors drinks at every event, keeping it free for everyone. The group connects with the AI Forum NZ and Canterbury Tech networks.