Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland’s leadership in biomedical science and engineering has secured the city as host for the 30th Annual Medical Image Computing and Computer Assisted Intervention Conference 2027 (MICCAI 2027), the world’s premier forum for medical imaging, robotic surgery and image-guided surgery, where artificial intelligence is playing an increasingly pivotal role.
MICCAI 2027 will bring together nearly 3,000 world-leading AI researchers, clinicians and biomedical engineers in Auckland from 26 September to 1 October 2027. The conference is projected to generate an economic impact of $5.7 million and approximately 15,500 visitor nights.
The successful bid was led by Associate Professor Jichao Zhao from the Auckland Bioengineering Institute at the University of Auckland in partnership with Professor Terry Peters from the Roberts Research Institute at Western University in London, Canada, with support from Auckland Convention Bureau and Tourism New Zealand Business Events.
Associate Professor Zhao, who serves as general chair for MICCAI 2027, stated: “AI-driven medical technologies have become vital tools for resource-constrained health systems. AI-powered medical imaging and robotics are transforming healthcare delivery in settings such as rural New Zealand, enabling faster, automated diagnoses and treatments. The conference will convene world leaders to explore cutting-edge technologies and address pressing health equity challenges in the Pacific region and beyond.”
Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown commented: “This represents another significant achievement for Auckland. It aligns with local and national innovation strategies, including the Auckland Innovation and Technology Alliance, and will strengthen our international partnerships, attract new talent and highlight Auckland’s position as a leader in health-tech.”
Ken Pereira, head of Auckland Convention Bureau, said: “We are delighted to have secured MICCAI 2027. Its theme, ‘From the Pacific to the World: Driving MICCAI’s Impact Towards Equitable HealthCare’ reflects Auckland’s vibrant research culture, diverse society and rapidly growing health-tech sector.”
Hosted at the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC) in the heart of Auckland’s innovation ecosystem, scientists, engineers, physicians, surgeons, educators and students from more than 60 countries will benefit from keynotes, clinical sessions, thematic workshops and cultural activities. On the final day, attendees will visit the Auckland Bioengineering Institute and other research centres for interactive sessions and project demonstrations.
Aotearoa New Zealand researchers have actively contributed to MICCAI since its inception and are developing the MICCAI 2027 programme, which will spotlight contributions addressing healthcare equity and feature insights from key opinion leaders and voices from underserved and Indigenous communities.
Associate Professor Zhao noted the programme will showcase leading research from New Zealand, Australia and the wider Pacific, promoting innovation, clinical translation and education. Key themes include improving outcomes for Māori and Pacific peoples, strengthening regional health-tech ecosystems and accelerating global equity through international collaboration.