New Zealand hosts first Web 3 hackathon to explore solutions

The first-ever Web 3 hackathon in New Zealand will focus on developing solutions for public challenges, including the creation of a government department expenditure tracking system.

The hackathon, under the theme "Code, create, conquer", will take place over three days at the University of Auckland. It invites Kiwis of all skill levels to explore several problem statements, including welfare distribution and tax process improvements. Interest in the event is robust, as half of the available spots have already been filled.

Kevin Whitmore, Business Innovation Advisor at Callaghan Innovation, stated: "That's the spark we need to ignite a Web3 revolution right here at home. This hackathon isn't just an event – it's a launchpad. It's where budding developers meet industry leaders, where ideas transform into real-world solutions, and where a participant's next big career opportunity might be waiting."

Web3 hackathons are platforms for developers, designers, and innovators to collaborate on blockchain technology-based apps. The event is modelled after ETHGlobal events that focus on Ethereum applications. New Zealand developers have been successful in these global events, with teams placing in the top 10 in Sydney's 2024 hackathon.

Web3 represents the next phase of internet technology, enabling direct peer-to-peer interactions without intermediaries. It uses blockchain technology, providing transparent and secure record-keeping. According to New Zealand's Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, blockchain adoption is still in its early stages, and wider understanding across sectors is necessary for full realisation of its benefits.

The hackathon aims to enhance New Zealand's capability in Web3 by maintaining local talent and showcasing innovations. Whitmore added: "We want to prove that innovation doesn't need a plane ticket. Let's keep our talent local, our ideas fresh and show the world what Kiwi ingenuity can do in the decentralised space."

One of the primary problem statements includes the design of a 'Government department expenditure tracking system (NZ's DOGE)'. This would record department expenditures on a distributed ledger, allowing public access to justifications for spending.

Other potential applications involve decentralised welfare distribution and food security platforms using smart contracts to automate processes and safeguard consumer spending. Tax process simplification and global market pricing for New Zealand's dairy and produce are also under consideration.

Paul Quickenden, Chief Commercial Officer at Easy Crypto, a major sponsor, highlighted the hackathon's importance: "We're interested in how we can help foster the next wave of Web3 businesses, projects and products and support the commercialisation of these rather than see our computer science students go overseas and switch industries due to a lack of local opportunity."

Participants in the hackathon will be supported by mentors from various organisations, including Easy Crypto, GD1, and FireEyes DAO. Students and professionals from diverse fields such as development, data analytics, and design are encouraged to join.

The winning team of the hackathon will receive an opportunity to attend any global ETHGlobal event of their choice, alongside potential investment opportunities and additional prizes.