Archive · 4 Sep 2026
New Zealand Delegation Seeks Osmania University Affordable Housing Expertise
A group from New Zealand visited Osmania University in Hyderabad.
They wanted to learn how India builds affordable homes on a large scale.
The lessons could help Māori and Pacific communities in New Zealand.
The two sides talked about strong and environmentally friendly buildings.
They also discussed managing water and waste, using digital tools, and making communities smarter.
Artificial intelligence could help design homes and deliver housing services.
They considered research partnerships and exchange programs for young people.
The groups plan to work out specific projects together.
A New Zealand delegation visited Osmania University to explore cooperation on affordable housing and sustainable development.
The delegation said Indian innovations could help address housing needs among Māori and Pacific communities.
Talks covered sustainable materials, scalable construction, climate resilience, infrastructure, and smart-community technologies.
Both sides discussed artificial intelligence, digital housing services, indigenous-led research, and exchange programs for young people.
Osmania University and the delegation agreed to identify areas for formal partnerships, joint research, and technology pilot programs.
- Who
- A New Zealand delegation led by Ali Hamlin-Paenga of Te Matapihi, and representatives of Osmania University led by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Kumar Molugaram.
- What
- They explored partnerships involving affordable housing, sustainable construction, urban development, research, and technology pilots.
- When
- During a New Zealand trade delegation visit to India; the articles do not give a specific date.
- Where
- Osmania University in Hyderabad, India.
- Why
- To learn from Indian housing innovations and improve housing outcomes for Māori and Pacific communities in New Zealand.
- Visiting organization
- Te Matapihi, led by CEO Ali Hamlin-Paenga
- Host institution
- Osmania University
- Main focus
- Affordable housing, sustainable construction, and urban development
- Technologies discussed
- Artificial intelligence, digital services, scalable construction, and smart-community technologies
- Environmental topics
- Climate resilience, sustainable building materials, water management, and solid-waste management
- Potential collaboration
- Formal university partnerships, joint research, technology-based pilot programs, and exchange programs
- Additional delegation members
- Economist Dr Jay Whitehead and Hyderabad-based Head of Business Sustainability Naveen Maddisetty