This claim is proving to be controversial but, if true, it would prove the Big Bang was followed by a phase of ultra-rapid growth known as inflation.
"If the BICEP2 claims hold up, we will have to write a new chapter in textbooks about the Big Bang," said Auckland University's head of physics, Professor Richard Easther.
"It's hard to over-state how big the stakes are for Kovac and his team -- they are really asking how the universe began," he said.
"If theories of inflation are proved, then this has huge implications for our understanding of both the origin of the universe and fundamental particle physics."
Following the panel discussion, Professor Easther will host a question and answer session.
The World Science Festival produced some of the world's most exciting programmes that connect the general public with science, so it was exciting for the university to be able to partner with them to live-stream the event, he said.
"It's great to be able to bring this to Auckland."
The Auckland event is open to the public and will be held at the university's Fisher and Paykel Auditorium at the Owen G Glenn Business School at 5 Grafton Rd from noon.
Refreshments will be available from the Business School's Excel cafe both before and after the event.
People keen to attend can register now at wsf2014.eventbrite.co.nz