New Zealand has a relatively low rate of AI adoption, with more than a third of workers feeling guilty about using it, according to new research.
A global report by Employment Hero indicated New Zealand businesses had a comparatively low rate of AI adoption, compared with the UK, Australia and Canada.
While New Zealand workers were increasingly upskilling and relying on AI at work, the research indicated many were hiding how much they used it.
"Workers with the most AI competence are the most conflicted," Employment Hero general manager New Zealand Neil Webster said.
"They know what it can do for them, but are anxious about the impact it might have on their role and their livelihood.
Copyright Licensing NZ says New Zealand is behind on AI regulation, as the Government signals it won't have a framework in place until at least 2027. (Source: 1News)
"One key stat found 37% of Kiwi workers feel guilty using AI at work despite recognising it helps them produce better work and develop valuable skills."
He said employers could help to combat AI guilt by creating positive environments for adoption of the technology.
"Many businesses are still working out what AI should look like in their workplace which is understandable because it is evolving quickly and there isn't a one-size-fits-all approach," Webster said.
"However, we're seeing employers provide clear guidance and practical support for their teams and celebrate the productivity gains AI enables which makes people more confident to use it in ways that benefit both the business and their own professional development."
The morning’s headlines in 90 seconds include wild weather in the South Island, China's missile testing in the Pacific and Donald Trump's interference with the FIFA world cup. (Source: 1News)
Key points
- 38% of employees say using AI feels like cheating
- 37% feel a sense of guilt when using AI to produce high-quality work, the lowest of any market surveyed
- 42% worry using AI makes them look replaceable
- More than half of Kiwi workers (51%) have taught themselves AI skills through platforms like YouTube and TikTok
- 57% say AI is helping them develop more valuable skills.
- Just under a third (32%) present AI-generated work as their own
- 28% use AI tools without their company knowing.
SHARE ME