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 

New report reveals critical Digital Priorities to drive technology innovation and productivity for Aotearoa

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Tech leaders from some of NZ’s largest organisations call on the government to establish deeper partnerships with industry to address key digital challenges 

The Technology Users Association of New Zealand (TUANZ) today released its Digital Priorities 2025 report, outlining the key challenges and opportunities facing New Zealand’s digital landscape. Digital leaders particularly expressed a desire for greater  Government participation and partnerships in the technology space, calling for more visible, strategic and impactful action to drive economic and productivity benefits.  This needs to be balanced with the right regulatory settings to enable private companies to thrive.

The fifth annual report, delivered in partnership with One New Zealand and TechLeaders Executive, includes insights from interviews with 36 CIOs and CTOs from around Aotearoa. It identifies six critical priorities that require urgent action to ensure New Zealand’s continued digital competitiveness and inclusivity.

“This year’s report paints a clear picture of the pressing issues facing Aotearoa New Zealand’s digital future,” says Craig Young, CEO of TUANZ. “We are at a critical juncture where we must address escalating cybersecurity threats, bridge the widening tech talent gap, and ensure digital inclusion for all New Zealanders.”

“It’s also vital that we accelerate technology adoption and harness data effectively while navigating Gen AI. We need the Government to step up in the right places, and we acknowledge this requires support from industry to drive meaningful change together.”

The Digital Priorities 2025 report highlights persistent challenges in the digital sector, exacerbated by rapid technological advancements, particularly in generative artificial intelligence (AI). Key findings reveal that while New Zealand shows strengths in areas like e-commerce legislation and online banking access, it lags in technological infrastructure and adoption. Digital leaders express concern that New Zealand is being outpaced globally and rate the country an average of 6 out of 10 for adoption of new technology.

Escalating cybersecurity risks was number one on the priority list. Kieran Byrne, CTO at One New Zealand, and one of the report interviewees, explains: “While One NZ has an expert internal team, and a specialist partner in DEFEND supporting our collective customers, like most CTOs and CIOs cybersecurity is always top of mind in terms of risks that need to be managed. The threat landscape is evolving so quickly, and the industry needs to work closely with partners and government agencies to ensure telecommunications infrastructure remains highly resilient, and our economy and people remain protected from these cyber threats.”

Other digital priorities identified in the report included: Bridging the tech talent gap, Digital inclusion, Accelerating technology adoption, Harnessing data, and Gen AI.

The report also highlights that when it comes to technological infrastructure, New Zealand falls toward the lower end of the global scale, highlighting a key area for improvement and public sector collaboration, especially around digitising government.

Liz Gosling, Co-Chair of TechLeaders, adds: “Our collective ambition is for Aotearoa New Zealand to be a world-leading, trusted and successful digital nation. To achieve this, we must address the issues raised in this report with urgency. We need to bridge the digital divide, invest in our people, and foster a culture of innovation.”

Key recommendations from the report include:

  • Prioritising security by design and enhancing collaboration to address cybersecurity risks.
  • Investing in local talent, promoting STEM education and partnering to close skill gaps.
  • Improving infrastructure, making technology affordable and promoting digital literacy for digital inclusion.
  • Implementing robust governance and standards for responsible AI use.
  • Developing a national digital strategy and incentivising technology adoption for SMEs.
  • Establishing clear policies for data use and enhancing data security.

As Craig Young summarises: “Digital technologies are critical to New Zealand’s success, we need to ensure that Aotearoa is well positioned to benefit and not be left behind due to slow or inefficient technology adoption. This includes the right sort of regulatory invention, and a focus on government support not necessarily legislative action.” 

View the Digital Priorities 2025 report here:

View the report

TUANZ urges caution on copper network deregulation

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The Technology Users Association (TUANZ) is raising concerns about the potential risks of deregulating the long-standing copper network outside urban areas as proposed by the Commerce Commission in its announcement this morning.  

While we acknowledge the need to transition users away from legacy and outdated networks, we remain concerned about the possible impact on rural communities – especially as they already face the shutdown of the 3G mobile network this year. Deregulation could lead to affordability issues, potentially leaving vulnerable communities without reliable and affordable internet or phone services.

“The Commission believes most rural users have up to three alternative providers, but we would like to analyse the data behind this claim to identify any gaps in coverage and capability,” says Craig Young, CEO of TUANZ. 

We also stress  the importance of a customer-centric approach to any transition. This means clear, transparent processes and a well-funded education programme to equip users with the knowledge and support they need – including alternative technologies, pricing and available assistance. We welcome the industry’s initial commitment to this approach.

“We are ready to collaborate with industry and the Commission to ensure  the right approach is taken. This will be a key topic at our upcoming Connecting Aotearoa Summit in May.”

“At TUANZ, our overall strategic goal is to ensure  all New Zealanders, regardless of location or socio-economic circumstances, have access to reliable and affordable connectivity. We need to see the data, assess the alternatives, and ensure a customer-focused transition that leaves no one behind.”

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

Phone: 021 488 188 Email: craig.young@tuanz.org.nz 

TUANZ’s refreshed strategy: empowering New Zealanders in our digitally connected world

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The Tech Users Association of New Zealand (TUANZ) is proud to announce a strategic refresh, reaffirming its commitment to empowering all New Zealanders through better digital access and inclusion, trust and safety, education, responsible use of AI and data privacy.

“We’ve always been here to represent the voices of people, businesses and communities navigating the digital landscape,” says Craig Young, CEO of TUANZ. 

View Our Plan Summary

“Our strategy refresh reinforces our purpose: ensuring that every New Zealander has the opportunity to benefit from digital technology, no matter where they live or work.”

“As digital transformation accelerates, TUANZ is evolving to ensure it continues to champion the needs of users in an increasingly connected world. Our refreshed strategy strengthens TUANZ’s focus to empower all New Zealanders in the digital age.” 

“We are not only a strong, independent voice for users navigating the digital world, but we also equip our member community with knowledge and resources to seize the opportunities of our digital future.”

The updated strategy sharpens TUANZ’s focus across five key themes:

  • Access and inclusion
    Advocating for all New Zealanders to have equal access to meaningful technology, digital services and connectivity.
  • Trust and safety
    Ensuring a safer digital environment by championing effective policies and programmes that protect users. 
  • Education
    Collaborating with key industry stakeholders to advance digital skills and capability.
  • Generative AI
    Promoting the responsible and inclusive adoption of AI to benefit businesses and communities. 
  • Data privacy
    Advocating for transparent and ethical data practices that prioritise user rights and security. 

The refreshed strategy will guide TUANZ’s work for the next two years, shaping initiatives including the Connecting Aotearoa Summit 2025, alongside engagement with government and industry.

View Our Plan Summary

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 purpose is to ensure that all of New Zealand makes the most of the digitally connected world.

Our vision is that all businesses and individuals in Aotearoa have unrestricted access to the technology and services needed to thrive; no one misses out on the opportunities in technology; and digital engagement is safe and inclusive for all. We will contribute to this by being a strong independent voice for all users of technology and helping our members prepare to take advantage of this digital future.

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

10 years on – NZ’s flagship connectivity event enters new era

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After nearly a decade known as the Rural Connectivity Symposium, the Tech Users Association of New Zealand (TUANZ) is delighted to announce the Connecting Aotearoa Summit 2025 – a reimagined event that broadens the conversation for all New Zealanders.

“In its tenth year, our summit will tackle one of the most pressing questions, why can’t we have 100% of New Zealanders connected?” says Craig Young, CEO of TUANZ.

“Despite significant progress, many people, businesses and communities across Aotearoa still face barriers to reliable and affordable internet access. This year’s expanded summit will bring together industry leaders, policymakers and advocates to explore solutions that ensure no one is left behind in our digital future,” says Craig.

“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. Being online is no longer optional—it is a fundamental requirement for full participation in our society.”

“Ensuring universal connectivity is about more than convenience; it’s about equity and opportunity. 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. This is a vital conversation to help enable a future where digital access is a basic right, not a privilege. This year at Connecting Aotearoa Summit 2025, we’re asking why can’t we have 100% of New Zealanders connected?” 

We invite you to be part of the conversation at the Connecting Aotearoa Summit 2025. Together, we can shape a future where digital access is a right, not a privilege.

“Last year’s event was our biggest yet and we look forward to meeting again, sharing ideas and finding creative solutions to expanding connectivity for all.”

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.

Join us on Wednesday 21 May in Hamilton for the Connecting Aotearoa Summit 2025. Special thanks to our premier partner Chorus for supporting us for a third year.

Registrations now open

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

Phone: 021 488 188 Email: craig.young@tuanz.org.nz 

TUANZ releases Rural Connectivity Symposium Communique

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In May 2024, government, industry, and community representatives gathered at the Tech Users Association (TUANZ) Rural Connectivity Symposium in Rotorua to discuss future-proofing connectivity in our rural communities.

With over 200 attendees, The Rural Connectivity Symposium 2024 was our biggest year yet, a testament to the great work we’re all doing to champion our rural communities in Aotearoa. It was fantastic to hear from our wonderful speakers and for so many of us to come together, share ideas, and find creative solutions.”  says TUANZ CEO Craig Young.

Today, TUANZ released its annual Rural Connectivity Symposium Communique, highlighting the important contributions from speakers, panellists and attendees. 

In his ministerial keynote, Hon. Paul Goldsmith, Minister for Broadcasting and Communications, reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to addressing the disparity in connectivity between rural and urban areas in Aotearoa New Zealand. While acknowledging fiscal constraints, he emphasised the need for steady progress in improving access to connectivity.

However, for many in the rural community, the level of service is still somewhat based on a “postcode lottery”. Consumer NZ CEO Jon Duffy agreed, stating “There shouldn’t be a second-class position… Customers should be able to access great service regardless of location.” He noted that healthy markets, where competition offers fair pricing no matter the location, would benefit rural customers.

This sentiment was echoed by other speakers, who emphasised the need for investment to assist those in areas where connectivity is available but not affordable. Research shared by the Digital Equity Coalition Aotearoa (DECA) suggests that a significant portion of New Zealanders struggle to afford basic internet connectivity. This lack of affordable options creates a digital divide, excluding low-income households from the social and economic benefits of the internet.  Exciting initiatives, like the work REANNZ is doing to reduce digital inequality among students by creating a network of digitally connected spaces with frictionless access provided by eduroam, are steps in the right direction. 

“We cannot stand still or think that small steps are acceptable to those who cannot connect due to a lack of service, competition or affordability.  We know there is no silver bullet, but we need an ambitious vision to ensure everyone who needs and wants to be connected can be,” said Craig Young.  “Many of the speakers who live and work in rural areas emphasised how public policy must recognise the ‘right to be rural’ and the fundamental right to be connected.”

You can view the Communique here. 

For further comment or interview, please contact Craig Young

About TUANZ

The Tech Users Association of New Zealand (TUANZ) is helping Kiwis make the most of our digitally connected world. TUANZ is an independent voice, representing both the connected user, and businesses in Aotearoa for over 35 years. Our voice speaks for you, with the Government, media and technology suppliers. Our vision is for New Zealand to be a top 10 digital ready nation by 2030.

We work hard to ensure that every New Zealander can be connected to the digital world and we care about our future here in Aotearoa. We continue to advocate for improved access for all users in New Zealand to the services they both need and want. Together with our members, we’re dedicating resources to nurture our future leaders, empowering them to excel in their careers and contribute positively to your business.
www.tuanz.org.nz

TUANZ welcomes new board members

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On Thursday, September 12 the Tech Users Association of New Zealand, (TUANZ) welcomed new board members at its Annual General Meeting held in Auckland during the Tech Users Summit 2024.

Congratulations to Kari Jones, Garth Spencer and Andrew Cushen on their election to the board. They join existing board members Tristan Ilich, Zoe Udy, Caitlin Metz, Annaliese Atina, Matthew Harrison, Paul Littlefair, Sid Kumar and David Matheson.

Special thanks to outgoing board members Kaity Mitchell, Vaughan Baker and Andy Edwards.

“I want to express my gratitude to our Board members for their continued dedication and strong leadership. A heartfelt thank you also to our members, whose support empowers us to be the voice for all users of digital technology across Aotearoa New Zealand,” says Craig Young, CEO of TUANZ.

TUANZ continues to support the Digital Boost Alliance, an initiative that supports the uptake of digital tools for small businesses, communities, and individuals. Through collaboration, our members are helping drive digital acceleration in Aotearoa.

TUANZ’s events programme continues to grow with its flagship conferences, Tech Users Summit 2024 and the Rural Connectivity Symposium 2024, seeing record attendance numbers since their inception. Throughout New Zealand, the TUANZ Future Leaders in Technology (FLINT) teams host regular events to connect and empower those who aspire to be the leaders of New Zealand’s digital future.  

This year TUANZ is delighted to launch the Arotahi Spotlight series, celebrating and supporting the inclusion of Māori and Pasifika in technology careers. Arotahi means to focus, and TUANZ is working with our members to highlight the stories and achievements of our member organisations working to foster digital skills and opportunities for Māori and Pasifika. 

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

Full board profiles here: TUANZ Board – TUANZ

View the TUANZ annual report here

For further comment or interview, please contact Craig Young, CEO, TUANZ Phone: 021 488 188  Email: craig.young@tuanz.org.nz  

Influence the future of TUANZ

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One of the opportunities that members of TUANZ have is to put their name forward for election to the Board. Being part of the Board gives you the opportunity to influence the future work of the organisation and how TUANZ impacts the direction of the digital technology landscape in Aotearoa New Zealand.

We are now seeking nominations for the Board and encourage you to carefully consider nominating yourself or someone else to this role who can make a difference and help us to make sure New Zealand makes the most of the digitally connected world. More information about the Board member roles and responsibilities can be found here. 


This year, there are six seats available on the TUANZ Board. Board members serve for two years. To join the Board, you or your organisation must be a fully paid-up TUANZ member. If unsure about your membership status, please contact us at accounts@tuanz.org.nz.

While any member may be nominated, we especially encourage members with the following skills or experience to consider nomination:

  • Risk & financial management
  • Security or data protection
  • Leading large corporate IT teams
  • Members who work within non-technology and telecommunications companies.

Nominations can be made using this form no later than 5pm, Wednesday 7 August.

Online Voting & Annual General Meeting

The Annual General Meeting will be held at the Tech Users Summit on Thursday, September 12, 2024. Voting will be online before the AGM, and results will be announced at the meeting. Details and registration information will be sent out soon. All TUANZ members are encouraged to attend either in person or online.

Timeline

  • Now: Call for Nominations for Board representatives issued to Members
  • 7 August: Deadline for nominations to be received
  • 14 August: List of nominees to be issued to voting members and electronic voting commences.
  • 28 August:  Electronic voting close
  • 29 August:  Any proposed notices, motions or remits to be advised to TUANZ.
  • 12 September: Annual Meeting, results of online voting announced.


Notices and Remits

If you have any remits, motions or other items that you would like raised at the AGM, please send these through to alysha@tuanz.org.nz by 5pm Thursday 29 August 2024.

Media Release: Digital competitive slipping: NZ tech leaders raise concerns about cyber

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June 18, 2024

Press Release – TUANZ

New Zealand’s digital leaders are facing a technological tipping point, with generative artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity emerging as key priorities for 2024, according to a new report by TUANZ.

However, in 2023, New Zealand’s ranking in the Portulans Network Readiness Index (NRI) fell by four positions, from 19th to 23rd.

This reflects some of the concerns raised by CIOs and technology leaders, including AI talent concentration, digital skills, and high-tech and medium-high-tech manufacturing.

The fourth annual ‘TUANZ Aotearoa’s Digital Priorities in 2024’ report, supported by One New Zealand, highlights some key digital trends and concerns.

Craig Young, TUANZ chief executive officer, says the rise of AI alongside strengthening cybersecurity and digital equity were some of the key themes outlined by tech leaders.

“Over the last few years, we’ve seen digital leaders trying balance technological evolution with supporting business as usual. It’s evident our world – and the technology we rely on – is developing at an ever-increasing pace,” says Young.

“In order to stay ahead of the curve, Aotearoa New Zealand’s business and technology leaders need to be flexible, adaptable and resilient to unexpected challenges and disruptions.

“To do this, we require innovative thinking, in partnership with government, to create an environment that supports the progressive regulation of emerging tech and data privacy, particularly as AI is fast-approaching and is likely to impact jobs across the motu.

“The recent Budget was particularly lacking in any new technology focus areas, which feels like a missed opportunity as New Zealand looks to improve lagging productivity through high-tech solutions.”

The TUANZ Digital Priorities Report was compiled following interviews with 36 technology leaders from around Aotearoa.

Tony Baird, Chief Technology Officer at One New Zealand, said Kiwi businesses were quick to adapt to using new technology during the COVID-19 pandemic, and wants to see this continue.

“The adoption of cloud technology has helped pave the way to emerging opportunities for AI as a tool to help augment and support human workers, freeing them up to focus on higher value tasks,” says Baird.

“When it comes to these tools, it’s essential we learn how to utilise them to our advantage to streamline business processes while navigating the challenges around data privacy and ethics policies to protect consumers.

“The tech leaders highlighted both the risks and opportunities facing Kiwi businesses, to ensure we emerge from the current economic challenges stronger on the global stage.”

Other key priorities highlighted in the report include building resilience in a changing world, embracing cloud and off-site technology, addressing constrained resources, and promoting digital equity to ensure no one is left behind in the digital transformation.

The “Aotearoa’s Digital Priorities in 2024” report is available for download on the TUANZ website at www.tuanz.org.nz .

Zoe Udy elected as Deputy Chair of TUANZ Board

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On 28 May 2024, Zoe Udy was unanimously elected to the role of Deputy Chair of the TUANZ Board. 

Zoe grew up a digital native, further expanding her interest in technology by studying Computer Science and pursuing a career first in IT Project Management, then in Solution Architecture. Zoe is now working with a Digital Agency based in Te Whanganui a Tara. Zoe is passionate about the ways technology can help to provide positive and equitable health outcomes for all New Zealanders. 

Zoe spent several years as the Chair of FLINT Wellington, and believes that by engaging students in technology education at key stages, and then supporting them through their early professional careers, we will build a diverse and capable workforce for many years to come.

Zoe was elected to the TUANZ Board in 2019, and to the position of Deputy Chair in 2024.

“We are thrilled to see Zoe’s journey from a member of FLINT, to a leader of FLINT, and then election to the Board, and now as Deputy Chair. I would personally like to acknowledge Zoe for her ongoing commitment of time and contribution to TUANZ,” says Tristan Ilich, Board Chair, TUANZ.

For more information about the TUANZ board, please see our Governance page.