Auckland has been confirmed to host the 30th Annual Medical Image Computing and Computer Assisted Intervention Conference 2027 (MICCAI 2027), the world’s leading forum for medical imaging, robotic surgery and image-guided surgery.
MICCAI 2027 will see nearly 3000 world-leading AI researchers, clinicians and biomedical engineers gather in Auckland from 26 September to 1 October 2027. The conference is estimated to generate an economic impact of $5.7 million and approximately 15,500 visitor nights.
The conference hosting 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 which is a division of Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, and Tourism New Zealand Business Events.
Associate Professor Zhao, who is General Chair for MICCAI 2027, says: “AI-driven medical technologies are no longer just futuristic concepts – they’re becoming vital tools for resource-constrained health systems. AI-powered medical imaging and robotics are transforming healthcare in settings such as rural areas of New Zealand. By enabling faster, automated diagnoses – and in some cases, treatments – these innovations help clinicians reach patients who might otherwise face delays or limited access to care. The conference will bring together world leaders to explore cutting-edge technologies and tackle pressing health equity challenges in the Pacific region and beyond.”
Auckland Mayor, Wayne Brown said securing the conference was another great win for Auckland.
“It aligns with local and national innovation strategies, including the establishment of the Auckland Innovation and Technology Alliance, and will help strengthen our international ties, attract new talent and highlight Auckland’s strength as a leader in health-tech,” he said.
“Earlier this year, I established the Auckland Innovation and Technology Alliance to provide strategic leadership, foster collaboration and unlock investment. Hosting events like this can only help to accelerate the city’s ambition to become a globally competitive innovation and technology hub.”
Head of Auckland Convention Bureau, Ken Pereira said the conference theme, ‘From the Pacific to the World: Driving MICCAI’s Impact Toward Equitable HealthCare’ reflected Auckland’s vibrant research culture, its ethnically diverse society and its rapidly growing health-tech sector.
“We look forward to showcasing Auckland’s strength in this field while welcoming attendees to our beautiful region,” said Mr Pereira.
To be held at the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC) – in the heart of Auckland’s knowledge and innovation ecosystem – scientists, engineers, physicians, surgeons, educators and students from more than 60 countries will benefit from a range of scientific content including keynotes, clinical day sessions, thematic workshops, one-on-one sessions, and cultural and student-focused activities. On the final day of the conference, attendees will have the opportunity to visit the Auckland Bioengineering Institute and other research centres for interactive sessions, project demonstrations, and researcher pairings.
New Zealand International Conference Centre General Manager, Prue Daly said the venue was honoured to host MICCAI 2027.
“The global conference fits with our vision of being a hub for innovation and collaboration and we look forward to welcoming delegates from around the world and giving them a taste of Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland’s vibrant hospitality,” said Ms Daly.
Aotearoa New Zealand researchers have actively contributed to MICCAI since its inception and are developing the MICCAI 2027 programme, which will spotlight contributions that address healthcare equity and feature insights from key opinion leaders and voices from underserved and Indigenous communities.
Associate Professor Zhao says the programme will be designed to highlight unmet needs, traditional care practices, and how technology can better serve their populations.
“The programme, which is currently in development, will showcase leading research from New Zealand, Australia, and the wider Pacific, promoting innovation, clinical translation, and education across the MICCAI community. Key themes to be explored include improving outcomes for Māori and Pacific peoples, strengthening regional health-tech ecosystems, and accelerating global equity through international collaboration,” he said.
