Computer Vision and AI use in the University of Auckland security footage
D Taylor made this Official Information request to University of Auckland
The request was successful.
From: D Taylor
Dear University of Auckland,
I am requesting information relating to:
1) The use of AI or other computer vision tools in the processing of University of Auckland security camera footage.
2) If AI or other computer vision tools are used, what is the role of these tools? e.g. automated identification of objects or people, movement detection, etc.
3) If there are any plans to introduce AI or other computer vision tools in the processing of University of Auckland security camera footage.
4) What other organisations does the University of Auckland allow to access security camera footage?
Yours faithfully,
D Taylor
From: Landon Watt
University of Auckland
Dear requester,
I refer to your request for official information below. As consultations
necessary to make a decision on your request are such that a response
cannot reasonably be given within the original time limit, the University
has extended the time limit for your request until 31 October 2025 under
section 15A(1)(b) of the OIA. We will respond to your request as soon as
reasonably practicable.
You have the right to make a complaint to an Ombudsman if you are
dissatisfied with this extension.
Yours sincerely
Landon Watt
Legal Advisor
Office of the Vice-Chancellor
Waipapa Taumata Rau | University of Auckland
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From: D Taylor
Dear Landon Watt,
I am wondering where you are with processing this request is at as it is now past the extended deadline.
Yours sincerely,
D Taylor
From: Landon Watt
University of Auckland
Dear requester,
I refer to your request of 4 September 2025. I apologise for the delay in
the University's response. The University's response follows.
"I am requesting information relating to:
1) The use of AI or other computer vision tools in the processing of
University of Auckland security camera footage.
2) If AI or other computer vision tools are used, what is the role of
these tools? e.g. automated identification of objects or people, movement
detection, etc."
We understand your request relates to cameras for the University's
security system, and does not include, for example, cameras used for
lecture recordings. For more information about lecture recordings, see our
Recording of Taught Content Policy and Procedures on the University's
website at
[1]https://www.auckland.ac.nz/en/about-us/a....
I have been advised that the relevant security system has tools to:
* Provide alerts based on specific movement detection (for example where
a person climbs over a fence).
* Distinguish between persons and vehicles.
Not all of the University's security cameras have the same capabilities.
In addition, we have some specific licence plate recognition cameras in
place for the purpose of allowing or denying access to carparks.
"3) If there are any plans to introduce AI or other computer vision tools
in the processing of University of Auckland security camera
footage."
We do not have any specific plans at this time to introduce additional AI
or other computer vision tools in the processing of University of Auckland
security camera footage.
"4) What other organisations does the University of Auckland allow to
access security camera footage?"
One University contracted service provider has access to specific cameras
to manage a University carpark. Otherwise, no other external organisations
have access to the University's security camera system. Security camera
footage for specific incidents may only be provided to external
organisations as permitted or required by law. Security camera footage
which captures images of persons is personal information under the Privacy
Act 2020, and the disclosure of personal information is subject to
Information Privacy Principle 11. Please see the University's Privacy
Policy, Privacy Statement, and the Privacy Act 2020 at the following
links:
* [2]https://www.auckland.ac.nz/en/about-us/a...
* [3]https://www.auckland.ac.nz/en/privacy.html
* [4]https://www.legislation.govt.nz/act/publ...
Yours sincerely,
Landon Watt
Legal Advisor
Office of the Vice-Chancellor
Waipapa Taumata Rau | University of Auckland
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Things to do with this request
- Add an annotation (to help the requester or others)
- Download a zip file of all correspondence (note: this contains the same information already available above).

