TradeMe has used its second Tech.Ed presentation to launch TradeMe Labs, a platform for innovative kiwi developers who are keen to showcase their skills.

Simon Young, head of development for TradeMe, says the project will tie in with the recent launch of TradeMe's API.

 "We want to promote innovation, but in the past it's been hard to endorse things and we've had to keep them a bit at arm's length.

There are already a few apps on the site, including a parcel tracking system run by New Zealand Post, an app called Get A Home which allows users to find open homes in their area via Google Maps, and a real-time visualisation of TradeMe bids and buy-nows being made around New Zealand.

Young says the move is an extension of the company's internal development programs, such as ‘Fed Ex' days, where teams of three are given 24 hours to deliver a product that will then be judged by the TradeMe team, as well as a ‘Dragon's Den' of Trade Me bosses.

The launch follows the recent announcement by Google that its own project, Google Labs, would be shut down in September.

TradeMe Labs is free and open at this stage.