Introductory Statement – Chair of the Executive Council, Digital Identity NZ

As the new Chair of the Executive Council of Digital Identity NZ, I am looking forward to leading a passionate and future-focused community working to build a trusted, inclusive, and interoperable digital identity ecosystem for New Zealand, building on the impressive work the Executive Council has done over the past few years . 

With a background in executive leadership across public service and advisory roles I have advocated for and delivered the transformative potential of digital identity as public infrastructure. Whether enabling seamless access to services, supporting mobility and consent, or underlining trust in our digital economy, identity – in all of its forms – is foundational to a modern, resilient society. 

DINZ plays a crucial convening role across government, iwi, industry, and civil society. As Chair, my focus is to champion practical progress: supporting policy and technical frameworks that uphold te ao Māori perspectives on identity, ensuring identity solutions reflect the needs of all New Zealanders, and advocating for interoperability that positions us as globally connected and locally grounded.

Our mission is urgent and clear: to enable every person in Aotearoa to participate safely and confidently in the digital world. I look forward to working with all our members to realise that vision.

Maria Robertson.