AI agents are coming, and one already tried to buy pavlova ingredients without asking

AI agents are coming, and one already tried to buy pavlova ingredients without asking
A pavlova order shows the powerful capabilities and dangers of agentic AI. (Image: NZME)
Dileepa Fonseka
The general public will have greater access to artificial intelligence agents over the next few weeks, but you might also want to hear the tale of an aborted New World Pavlova order before sharing too much information with it.Deloitte NZ AI Institute generative lead Amanda Williamson tested the service over the weekend by having it order a pavlova for her. A few minutes later, the artificial intelligence (AI) had filled her shopping cart with ingredients and tried to charge it to an old credit card of hers. Welcome to the world of Agentic...

More Editor's Picks

Ebos CEO grilled on 'drastic' share-price fall
Markets

Ebos CEO grilled on 'drastic' share-price fall

Adam Hall's first AGM may well be the toughest he'll ever face.

RBNZ paying for unused floor space at new office
Property

RBNZ paying for unused floor space at new office

The Reserve Bank of NZ's plush new Britomart office will be only partially occupied. 

Andy Macdonald 29 Oct 2025
What Nvidia and Tower Insurance have in common
Markets

What Nvidia and Tower Insurance have in common

One is the global stock market darling, the other is an NZX star.

Earthquakes still top of the league for insurance costs
Editor's Picks Risky Business

Earthquakes still top of the league for insurance costs

Despite growing risks from climate change, other hazards are ever present.

Greg Hurrell 28 Oct 2025