Reflecting on 2024: Tech Connections, Global Impact, and a Look Ahead

Kia ora,

2024 has undoubtedly been a year of highs and lows, showcasing both exciting progress and inspiring resilience within our tech community. At the NZTech Group, we’ve worked hard to make it easier for our 2,000+ members to get on with the business of tech, and to make Aotearoa a more sustainable, equitable, prosperous, and safe place while we’re at it.

Here’s how we’ve delivered for our members and increased the growth and uptake of tech in Aotearoa this year:

🔗 Strengthening connections

• 8 national conferences brought together tech folk and policymakers to share knowledge, tackle challenges and explore opportunities in AI, digital trust, cybersecurity, fintech, life sciences and more.
• 60 member networking events fostered invaluable partnerships, showcased innovation, and connected members across New Zealand.
• 1,000 young women were inspired to explore tech careers through ShadowTech24, connecting them with industry role models.

📈 Promoting tech’s value to the economy

• 19,000 Techweek attendees in 18 regions explored the innovations shaping our future, with over 280,000 online views amplifying the conversation across Aotearoa. 
• Our global tech story, See Tomorrow First, reached an incredible global audience of 97.9 million tech buyers, investors, and talent, putting New Zealand technology on the world stage—a great example of how shared industry and government initiatives can create powerful impact.

📣 Advocating for smart tech policy

• 14 government submissions influenced key policies, from education and emissions reduction to AI governance and science reform. We’re committed to ensuring the government leverages tech to solve our nation’s challenges.
• 15 working groups shaped New Zealand’s approach to critical topics like AI, sustainability, smart cities, and blockchain.

🌍 Showcasing leadership and impact

• 7 research reports explored cutting-edge topics like climate technology, AI productivity, and Māori agritech, delivering insights for business growth and sustainability.
• 5 transparency reports from the Code of Practice for Online Safety and Harms advanced trust and safety in the digital realm.
• 7 regions participated in the AI Hackathon across New Zealand, using AI to solve pressing climate challenges.

It’s clear: when we work together, we go further and faster.

It’s no secret that our most successful members are also our most actively engaged. They leverage NZTech to build their brand, connect with talent and partners, and shape policies that enable their businesses to thrive.

The team at NZTech wishes you a restful summer break, and we’re excited to collaborate with you in 2025 to deliver even greater outcomes for your teams and for Aotearoa.

Meri Kirihimete,
Graeme Muller
CEO
NZTech

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Read full news here: Reflecting on 2024

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