Making a Difference: Te Ara Hihiko wins Supreme Award at 2025 NZ Compare Awards

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The Technology Users Association of New Zealand (TUANZ) is proud to announce that Te Ara Hihiko, its flagship equity-and-inclusion initiative, has been awarded the 2025 NZ Compare Supreme Award in the Making a Difference category. The award recognises organisations effecting real and lasting social impact, and this year the judges selected Te Ara Hihiko for its outstanding contribution to digital equity for Māori and Pasifika across Aotearoa.

“This award shines a spotlight on the critical importance of digital inclusion, diversity, and cultural equity in our industry,” says Megan Matthews, Chair and Programme Lead for Te Ara Hihiko.

“Building a sustainable tech sector in Aotearoa is not only about infrastructure or services,  it’s fundamentally about people, opportunity and social justice. When we create genuine pathways for Māori and Pasifika talent, we strengthen the entire industry and ensure our digital future truly represents all New Zealanders.”

“On behalf of the entire Te Ara Hihiko team, I would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to NZ Compare, the judges and everyone who has contributed to this mahi. This achievement belongs especially to our Māori and Pasifika participants and all our supporters who have championed this kaupapa from the beginning.”

Te Ara Hihiko, (pathway of energy and inspiration) is TUANZ’s programme to create equitable and culturally inclusive pathways into the digital sector for Māori and Pasifika. Through a series of in-person hui, collaboration with member organisations, cultural advisors, HR specialists and senior business leaders, Te Ara Hihiko addresses systemic barriers at every stage.

“Te Ara Hihiko’s win is more than just an award, it is an important milestone for equity in the New Zealand tech industry,” says Craig Young, CEO of TUANZ.

“We believe that opportunity should reflect Aotearoa’s diversity. This recognition will help amplify voices that are too often unheard, and encourage real systems change across the sector.”

With this recognition, TUANZ and Te Ara Hihiko are committed to deepening this kaupapa: expanding engagement, strengthening partnerships across the digital sector, and continuing to dismantle barriers so that Māori and Pasifika talent can thrive from rangatahi through to senior leadership roles.

“This award validates the hard work of so many people who have contributed to Te Ara Hihiko, but more importantly, it signals to the entire tech sector that equity and inclusion must be central to how we build our digital future,” says Craig.

“We’re energised to continue this mahi and grateful for the recognition that will help us reach even more rangatahi and organisations committed to meaningful change.”

For further information or interview requests, please contact:

Megan Matthews
Programme Lead, Te Ara Hihiko
Phone: 021 1121 523
Email: megan.matthews.nz@gmail.com

About Te Ara Hihiko
Te Ara Hihiko is TUANZ’s flagship programme dedicated to creating equitable pathways for Māori and Pasifika into New Zealand’s digital sector. Through collaboration, cultural inclusivity, and systems change, the initiative works to ensure the tech industry reflects the diversity of Aotearoa. The core aims of Te Ara Hihiko are to:

  • Raise awareness of the breadth of opportunities in New Zealand’s digital economy.
  • Provide clear, accessible pathways for rangatahi (young people) to enter digital roles.
  • Challenge and reform hiring and induction practices to be culturally appropriate, inclusive, and supportive of Māori and Pasifika staff.
  • Ensure fair and equitable opportunities for long-term growth and development once in the workforce.

Learn more: https://tuanz.org.nz/te-ara-hihiko/

About TUANZ
As the independent technology user’s association for Aotearoa, TUANZ aims to build on its history of leading and achieving positive change. Our goal is to mobilise users across all parts of society and the economy, ensuring they are aware of the opportunities and upcoming developments in technology. 
Learn more about TUANZ and explore our current work programme here: www.tuanz.org.nz

TUANZ Announces New Board Chair

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The Technology Users Association of New Zealand (TUANZ) today announced the appointment of Paul Littlefair as Chair of the TUANZ Board.

“Paul brings deep technology leadership, proven governance experience and a strong commitment to developing the next generation of digital leaders,” says Craig Young, CEO, TUANZ.

“His track record across complex transformation, modern delivery and data-driven innovation will help guide TUANZ’s work to ensure all New Zealanders can thrive in a digitally connected Aotearoa.”

Paul Littlefair is the Chief Digital and Technology Officer at Kiwibank and has held senior technology roles across the financial services sector. He has broad expertise spanning cloud, agile software delivery, devops, data, infrastructure and enterprise architecture. He was awarded New Zealand CIO of the year in 2019. Paul was first appointed to the TUANZ Board in 2021. Originally from the UK, he migrated to New Zealand in 1998 and now lives in Wellington.

“TUANZ plays a critical role advocating for users, lifting digital capability, and building trust and safety online. I’m especially passionate about growing future leaders. Programmes like TUANZ’s FLINT and NextGen Leaders create powerful pathways to develop the skills and confidence New Zealand needs to compete globally,” says Paul Littlefair, Chair, TUANZ.

“As Chair, my focus will be on practical impact: partnering across industry and government to improve access and inclusion, foster responsible and innovative use of generative AI, strengthen data privacy, and continue building the digital skills that communities and businesses need. For our members, that means TUANZ continues to be a powerful voice, driving real outcomes that matter, creating opportunities for connection, learning, and influence. If you’re passionate about shaping the future of technology in Aotearoa, this is the place to be.”

“I’d like to sincerely thank Tristan Ilich for his outstanding service. Tristan has been a member of the TUANZ Board since 2016 and an exceptional Chair for the past six years. Under his leadership, TUANZ has evolved from a telecommunications-focused user association into one with a broader technology remit, reflecting the changing needs of our sector. While Tristan is stepping down as Chair, I’m pleased that he will remain on the Board, and TUANZ will continue to benefit from his experience and leadership.”

The new Chair will work with the TUANZ Board and team to advance the association’s refreshed strategy, focused on five critical themes: access and inclusion, trust and safety, education, generative AI and data privacy

The new Chair will work with the TUANZ Board and team to advance the association’s refreshed strategy, focused on five critical themes: access and inclusion, trust and safety, education, generative AI and data privacy.

For further information or interview requests, please contact:

Craig Young
CEO, TUANZ
Phone: 021 488 188
Email: craig.young@tuanz.org.nz

About TUANZ
As the independent technology user’s association for Aotearoa, TUANZ aims to build on its history of leading and achieving positive change. Our goal is to mobilise users across all parts of society and the economy, ensuring they are aware of the opportunities and upcoming developments in technology. 

Learn more about TUANZ and explore our current work programme here: www.tuanz.org.nz 

TUANZ Annual Report & AGM

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Following a vibrant Tech Users Summit 2025, we’re pleased to share key outcomes from our AGM, celebrate our Member Awards, and publish our Annual Report.

New TUANZ Board for 2025/26
Congratulations to our re-elected and newly elected board members. These dedicated volunteers generously contribute their time and knowledge to champion our members’ interests across a range of digital technology issues, while providing governance and oversight of our operations.

Your TUANZ Board for 2025/26:

  • Tristan Illich (re-elected)

  • Zoe Udy (re-elected)

  • Matthew Harrison (re-elected)

  • Sid Kumar (re-elected)

  • Jo Crawford (newly elected)

  • Andrew Cushen

  • Paul Littlefair

  • Caitlin Metz

  • Garth Spencer

  • Kari Jones

  • David Mathieson

  • Eden Robertson (Board intern)

Our vision remains clear: ensuring all individuals and businesses have unrestricted access to the technology and services they need to thrive, so no one is left behind in our nation’s digital transformation. 

TUANZ Annual Report 2024/2025

You can read the full Annual Report here.

TUANZ Member Awards 2025

Congratulations to this year’s winners:

  • Community Initiative of the Year: Rise by Talent

  • Technology Initiative of the Year: One NZ
    Spark NZ and FortySouth received High Distinction

  • Outstanding Future Leader: Alex Stewart

  • Outstanding Leader in the User Community: Lee Timutimu

  • Technology Journalist of the Year: Bill Bennett

  • Life Member: Pat O’Connell

  • Chair’s Award: Anthony Royal

Thank you to all our members, partners, speakers and volunteers who made the Tech Users Summit 2025 and our AGM a success. Your support fuels our mission and strengthens our voice on the issues that matter to technology users across Aotearoa.

TUANZ Releases Connecting Aotearoa 2025 Report: Pushing for 100% Digital Connectivity

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The Technology Users Association of New Zealand (TUANZ) has today launched its Connecting Aotearoa 2025 report, following its recent Connecting Aotearoa Summit in Hamilton. The report distils the summit’s key findings and sets a bold agenda for closing New Zealand’s digital divide.

The report responds to the critical question: “Why can’t 100% of New Zealanders be connected?” and lays out both the challenges and opportunities for achieving true digital equity.

“Digital connectivity is now a fundamental requirement for full participation in our society. This report is a call to action, because one in five New Zealand households are still digitally excluded, and that is simply not acceptable,” says Craig Young, CEO of TUANZ.

The report highlights ongoing issues around rural connectivity, affordability, digital skills, and the need for resilient, future-focused infrastructure.

“We have made huge progress as a nation, but to close the remaining gaps, we need more targeted investment, strong partnerships, and a long-term vision. Connectivity must be recognised as an essential utility, just like electricity or water, so that no one is left behind.”

The report also points to the importance of community-driven solutions, digital literacy, and raising awareness about digital exclusion.

“What we heard at the summit is that collaboration between government, industry, and communities is key. The practical solutions are there, but we need the will and the resources to implement them. Together, we can make digital equity a reality for every New Zealander.”

“Let’s make this the decade where we deliver on the promise of universal digital connectivity. The time for talk is over; the time for action is now.”

The Connecting Aotearoa 2025 report’s key themes include:

  • Strengthening rural connectivity
    Bridging the digital divide and ensuring access for all, regardless of location.
  • Making internet affordable for everyone
    Examining the cost barriers to internet access and exploring solutions for greater affordability.
  • Advancing digital equity
    Promoting inclusivity and ensuring everyone has the opportunity to participate in the digital world.
  • Shaping the future of connectivity
    Exploring emerging technologies and innovative solutions for a connected Aotearoa.

Download the report and find out more: Connecting Aotearoa 2025

For further comment or interview, please contact Craig Young, CEO, TUANZ

Phone: 021 488 188 

Email: craig.young@tuanz.org.nz  

About TUANZ
As the independent technology user’s association for Aotearoa, TUANZ aims to build on its history of leading and achieving positive change. Our goal is to mobilise users across all parts of society and the economy, ensuring they are aware of the opportunities and upcoming developments in technology. 

Learn more about TUANZ and explore our current work programme here: www.tuanz.org.nz 

Shaping Aotearoa’s future together

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The Tech Users Summit returns for 2025! Co-hosted by the Digital Health Association (DHA) and TUANZ, this flagship event brings together two influential networks with a shared goal: to advance digital technology as essential infrastructure for modern life.

This year’s theme, Digital as Core Infrastructure, recognises a pivotal moment for New Zealand. While roads, energy, and water have long been seen as the backbone of our society, digital systems are now just as essential. Broadband, connectivity, digital health platforms, and smart services are the new threads connecting our people, communities, and institutions. Together they help enable better decisions, faster responses, and stronger outcomes in every sector.

The 2025 summit explores the digital challenges and opportunities shaping our future, with a programme focused on topics that matter most:

  • Artificial Intelligence (AI): Delving into opportunities, risks, and ethics in both health and business.
  • Security & Safety: Addressing cybersecurity for data and enterprise, and safeguarding all New Zealanders online.
  • The Talent Gap: Strategies for building a diverse, future-ready digital workforce.

Expect inspiring keynote speakers, dynamic breakouts, and networking designed for genuine cross-sector collaboration. By joining forces, TUANZ and DHA are accelerating digital impact, creating a unique platform where digital tools meet real-world outcomes.

Now is the time to help shape a national vision for digital. Whether you’re a TUANZ or DHA member—or simply passionate about New Zealand’s digital future, your voice matters. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and lead as we ensure technology empowers every person, business, and community.

Learn more and secure your place >> Tech Users Summit 2025

Why should digital be a core infrastructure for Aotearoa?

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In today’s world, digital technology is more than just a tool, it’s the backbone of modern society. As New Zealand continues its rapid digital transformation, it’s clear that digital is not just an add-on, but an essential infrastructure, as critical as our roads, energy and water systems.

Digital infrastructure underpins how we work, connect, learn and access vital services. From telehealth appointments to secure online banking, cloud-based business systems that keep our economy running, digital technology is woven into the fabric of everyday life. When digital systems are robust, everyone benefits: businesses are more resilient, government services are more accessible, and communities can better respond to challenges and opportunities.

But treating digital as core infrastructure is also about ensuring equity. Reliable internet, digital skills, and access to technology shouldn’t be a privilege, they are basic requirements for full participation in modern society. By investing in digital infrastructure, New Zealand can close the digital divide, boost productivity, and empower innovation across every sector, from healthcare and education to business and government.

That’s why this year’s Tech Users Summit 2025 is themed “Digital as Core Infrastructure.” We’re bringing together leaders, innovators, and decision-makers from across Aotearoa to explore how digital infrastructure is reshaping our future and what we must do to ensure everyone can thrive in a connected world.

Join us on 10 September 2025 at the Grand Millennium Hotel, Auckland, to be part of this crucial conversation. Let’s unlock New Zealand’s digital future, together.

Learn more and register today.

Support Cyber Smart Week 2025

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Our lives are increasingly digital, yet many of us don’t safeguard our online presence with the same diligence we apply to our physical world. For example, we consistently use seatbelts in cars and secure our homes and offices, but often neglect similar protection for our online bank, email and social media accounts.

We’re supporting this year’s Cyber Smart Week, running from 6-12 October and encourage all our members to join us, especially given that over half of all New Zealanders have experienced an online incident in the last six months!

Organised by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), this year’s campaign will  continue to emphasise online security, encouraging all New Zealanders, both at home and at work, to adopt simple protective measures.

Sign your organisation up to become a supporter of Cyber Smart Week 2025 and, closer to the time, you’ll receive free material and resources you can share with your employees, customers and communities. This will include ready-to-use materials such as posters, editorial content, a social media pack, challenges, a quiz and more. 

Register here to become a supporter of Cyber Smart Week 2025. 

Why can’t 100% of New Zealanders be connected?

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This was the bold question driving our Connecting Aotearoa Summit 2025 at Claudelands Events Centre in Hamilton. With nearly 200 attendees and a full house, it was clear this conversation is vital for Aotearoa’s digital future. With industry leaders, innovators and community advocates in the room, our summit challenged us all to imagine a truly inclusive digital future.

Inspiration & international insights

Our day began with international lessons from Petra Claessen (BTG President) and Carol Bennett (CEO, ACCAN). They shared global perspectives, reminding us that digital equity is a shared challenge and a shared opportunity.

Emerging Technologies Panel
Facilitated by Adam Beck, with Simone Cuthbert-Scott (One NZ), Sebastian Faxer (Ericsson NZ), and Chris Roberts (Amuri Net), this panel explored how next-gen networks, satellite connectivity, and innovative rural solutions can help achieve 100% connectivity. Key highlights included:

  • Next-generation networks:
    The panel explored how upgrading to next-gen networks is critical to reaching underserved areas and ensuring high-speed, reliable connectivity for all New Zealanders.
  • Satellite connectivity:
    Discussion highlighted the increasing role of satellite technologies, including Low Earth Orbit (LEO) in bridging gaps where terrestrial infrastructure is not viable.
  • Rural innovation:
    Innovative rural solutions were showcased, including locally-driven initiatives and partnerships that tailor connectivity to the unique needs of different regions.
  • Building resilient infrastructure:
    Ensuring that networks are robust, flexible and disaster-ready was a central theme. The panel stressed the importance of designing infrastructure that can withstand natural disasters and other disruptions, providing continuity of service.
  • Advancing digital equity:
    The discussion emphasised that access to technology should not depend on geography, everyone should benefit from digital advances.
  • Fostering strong partnerships:
    The panel agreed that collaboration between telecommunications companies, technology innovators, and local communities is essential for sustainable and scalable progress toward universal connectivity.
  • Community engagement:
    Panellists acknowledged the value of working closely with communities to co-design solutions that address real-world barriers and ensure lasting impact.
  • Vision for 100% connectivity:
    Ultimately, the panel called for bold, collective action to close the digital divide, leveraging both established and emerging technologies to achieve the goal of 100% connectivity across Aotearoa.

What are we doing to help close digital inequity?

Our panel discussion, facilitated by Victoria MacLennan (DECA) with Pete Bains (BAINZ), Rose Jamieson (InternetNZ) and Lee Timutimu (Our Net) brought real talk and practical ideas:

  • “Can we solve digital exclusion for Aotearoa?” Rose Jamieson reminded us to focus on opportunity and impact.
  • Lee Timutimu, who is passionate about solving the digital divide, shared how social impact ISPs are challenging the status quo, with pilot programmes set to launch in Northland and Rotorua.
  • Collaboration is key: share initiatives, avoid silos, and amplify impact.
  • Security, digital literacy, and access to basic services are essential for meaningful inclusion.
  • Could you run your life without tech? Look out for No Tech Day, it’s a new national campaign to raise awareness and action on digital exclusion.

Digital access as a right

In his keynote address, Mark Aue, CEO of Chorus, delivered a powerful message:

  • NZ’s fibre network is world-class, but 1 in 5 households remain digitally excluded, that’s 400,000 homes.
  • To close the gap, we need long-term vision, bold investment and genuine collaboration.
  • “It’s not about making money or losing it, we all have a role to play in delivering digital equity and ensuring every New Zealander has the opportunity to connect and thrive.”
  • New initiatives like the community co-funded fibre build and proof-of-concept trials for low-income households are steps forward—but scaling impact requires all of us.

Key themes 

  • Rural Connectivity:
    Bridging the digital divide and ensuring access for all, no matter where you live.
    “Connectivity underpins the vitality of our rural communities. We must ensure no one is left behind,” says Hon Mark Patterson, Minister for Rural Communities.
    “Connectivity is absolutely critical to rural communities, not just for business, but for health, safety and social connection.” 
  • Affordability:
    Tackling the cost barriers to access.
     “Rural households pay on average 29% more than urban households for their broadband connection,” says Rachael Coyle (Commerce Commission).
  • Digital Equity:
    Promoting inclusivity and participation for everyone.
    “There are 130,000 households in New Zealand without an internet connection. Our mission is to improve the lives of all New Zealanders affected by digital poverty,” says Lee Timutimu (Our Net).
  • Future Connectivity:
    Exploring emerging tech and innovative solutions for a connected Aotearoa.
     “Digital connectivity must be a right, not a luxury. It’s the backbone of our future competitiveness, productivity, and prosperity,” says Mark Aue (Chorus)

Innovation spotlight:

  • Chorus: Expanded its community co-funded fibre build programme, offering up to $3,500 per premise for eligible communities.
  • Our Net: Launched as a digital equity ISP, delivering affordable, community-powered internet.
  • 3G Shutdown: Paul Brislen (TCF) provided practical advice and tools for consumers and businesses ahead of legacy network closures.

What’s next?

Thank you to everyone who made the Connecting Aotearoa Summit 2025 possible. Special thanks to all our speakers and our premier partner Chorus and gold partner, InternetNZ. We’ll be sharing more highlights and insights in the coming weeks, including our special report: Connecting Aotearoa 2025. Visit tuanz.org.nz to learn more and join our mission to connect every New Zealander.

Hon Mark Patterson, Minister for Rural Communities to headline Connecting Aotearoa Summit 2025

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TUANZ is delighted to announce that Hon Mark Patterson, Minister for Rural Communities, will deliver a ministerial address at the Connecting Aotearoa Summit 2025, taking place on Wednesday 21 May in Hamilton.

“Minister Patterson’s participation underscores the critical importance of rural connectivity and digital inclusion as central themes in New Zealand’s digital future. His insights will help frame this year’s central question: Why can’t 100% of New Zealanders be connected?” says Craig Young, CEO of TUANZ.

“In today’s world, digital access is essential for education, employment, healthcare and social inclusion. Without reliable internet, people risk being excluded from many opportunities. This year’s Summit is about action. We’re bringing together the people who can make a difference, because digital access is a fundamental right, not a privilege.” 

“We know those without digital access face greater challenges in finding jobs, accessing services and staying connected with family and friends. As technology continues to advance, the gap between the connected and unconnected will only widen unless we take action now. No one should miss out on the opportunities technology provides, and digital engagement must be safe, inclusive and available to all.”
“We invite everyone with a stake in New Zealand’s digital future to join us for what promises to be our most impactful event yet.”

Celebrating its tenth year, our flagship event (formerly the Rural Connectivity Symposium) has been reimagined as the Connecting Aotearoa Summit. This new era brings together leaders, policymakers, innovators and community advocates to tackle Aotearoa’s most pressing digital challenges.

Key themes for Connecting Aotearoa Summit 2025 include:

  • Rural connectivity
    Bridging the digital divide and ensuring access for all, regardless of location.
  • Affordability
    Examining the cost barriers to internet access and exploring solutions for greater affordability.
  • Digital equity
    Promoting inclusivity and ensuring everyone has the opportunity to participate in the digital world.
  • Future connectivity
    Discovering emerging technologies and innovative solutions for a connected Aotearoa.

Alongside Minister Patterson and the previously announced Hon Paul Goldsmith, Minister for Communications, the Summit features an outstanding line-up of leading voices from across Aotearoa and beyond, including:

  • Mark Aue – CEO, Chorus
  • Petra Claessen – President, BTG (Netherlands)
  • Paul Brislen – CEO, Telecommunications Forum
  • Nicole Oliver – Board Member, Rural Women NZ
  • Victoria MacLennan – CEO, IT Professionals & Co-Chair DECA
  • Lee Timutimu – CEO & Founder, Our Net (Digital Equity ISP)
  • Rose Jamieson – GM Public Impact, InternetNZ

View all our speakers and agenda here.

For further comment or interview, please contact Craig Young, CEO, TUANZ

Phone: 021 488 188 

Email: craig.young@tuanz.org.nz  

About TUANZ
As the independent technology user’s association for Aotearoa, TUANZ aims to build on its history of leading and achieving positive change. Our goal is to mobilise users across all parts of society and the economy, ensuring they are aware of the opportunities and upcoming developments in technology. 
Learn more about TUANZ and explore our current work programme here: www.tuanz.org.nz

Creative and Tech Industries Warn of Economic Growth Risks in Vocational Education Reforms 

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Leading organisations representing New Zealand’s creative and technology sectors have expressed growing concern that the Government’s vocational education reforms risk sidelining two of the fastest-growing and most vital parts of the New Zealand economy. 

While supporting efforts to strengthen vocational education, industry leaders say yesterday’s announcement of the proposed new Industry Standards Boards (ISBs) prioritises industries with existing apprenticeships and traineeships. This highlights a fundamental flaw: the digital and creative sectors are locked out of the future VET system and the innovation in work-based-learning that would have come from these sectors will be lost. 

“Our sectors are high-growth, high-value industries critical to New Zealand’s future prosperity,” said Victoria Blood of the creative sector alliance, WeCreate. “If creative and digital industries are not directly supported through the new model, we risk stalling their momentum — and the impact will be felt across every part of our economy.” 

The technology sector alone generates $13.4 billion in exports annually and contributes more than $17 billion to GDP. Meanwhile, the creative industries contribute approximately $17.5 billion to the economy, generate $4.1 billion in export revenue, and support over 117,000 jobs. Both sectors are growing two to three times faster than the wider economy. 

“Digital and creative skills aren’t optional extras — they are foundational to every industry’s productivity and competitiveness,” said Craig Young, CEO of TUANZ. “Without structures that support skills development in these areas, New Zealand risks being left behind.” 

Leaders warned that VET reforms focused only on industries with existing apprenticeship systems could entrench gaps in the workforce. The creative and technology industries have been actively working to develop new forms of work-based learning, including cadetships, internships, and apprenticeship-style pathways — but without recognition and investment, that development risks grinding to a halt. 

“We are concerned that focusing solely on industries with apprenticeships today will mean there is no vocational education focus — and no development of future pathways — for fast-growing industries like ours,” said Vic MacLennan, Chief Executive of IT Professionals NZ. “We don’t just need support for what exists now; we need a system that actively enables industries like digital and creative to build the structured pathways New Zealand desperately needs for a more productive future.” 

Since 2020, Workforce Development Councils (WDCs) like Toi Mai have played a crucial role in working alongside the creative and tech sectors to develop new models of work-based learning and advocate for faster, more responsive qualification approvals. This momentum is now at risk. 

The industry bodies are jointly calling for: 

  • A dedicated Industry Standards Board (ISB) for the creative and digital technology sectors that continues Toi Mai’s work. 

  • Recognition of the needs of the self-employed and small businesses across the tertiary system. 

  • Accelerated responsiveness in the qualification approval process to match the pace of technological change. 

  • Recognition that creative and digital capabilities are vital for all industries, not just within creative and tech companies. 

  • Active support for the development of apprenticeships, cadetships, internships, and work-based learning pathways for creative and digital industries. 

“We have engaged constructively with Minister Simmonds and the reform process, but we cannot afford to lose the progress we’ve made,” the joint statement concluded. “Creative and digital technologies are fundamental to New Zealand’s future. They must be recognised, supported, and resourced — not left behind.” 

END