NZTech Inform: Tech powering productivity, policy, and digital skills

Kia ora,

While the Government is focused on cutting costs and driving economic growth, across the NZTech Group we’re making sure tech stays at the heart of the conversation.

Tech isn’t just about growth—it’s about improving productivity, safety, and sustainability. Whether it’s helping small businesses thrive, building smarter public services, or preparing our workforce for the future, tech has a critical role to play.

📱 All-of-Government App on the Way

At one of our recent Techweek events, Minister Collins announced plans for a new All-of-Government Services App – a digital platform to improve how people interact with the government. She’s aiming to have it live by Christmas. The presence of the Public Service Commissioner and the Government Chief Digital Officer at the event helped solidify momentum. Here’s my LinkedIn post capturing the announcement and the energy in the room.

💼 Tech Driving Small Business Productivity

We also had a constructive session with Minister Penk, alongside the Secretaries of the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment and the Department of Internal Affairs, discussing how tech can help small businesses work smarter. Research from Xero shows for every $1 invested in tech, businesses see a $2–$3 return – a clear case for digital investment.

📊 Toi Mai Digital Skills Survey

A key focus right now is digital skills. This month, Toi Mai is helping us run a national digital skills survey to understand what skills are needed and where the gaps lie.

This data is vital – it helps ensure the education system is preparing the right talent and supports better digital policy.

Please encourage your organisation to complete the survey.

🌏 Supporting Exporters Through Trade Challenges

With global trade becoming more complex, we’re also working to reduce non-tariff barriers that make it harder for New Zealand’s tech exporters. After a challenging Select Committee session last year, we’ve continued engaging with Ministers and officials to improve their understanding of how tech companies operate internationally. More conversations are lined up in the coming weeks.

🤝 Ongoing Policy Engagement Across the NZTech Group

Across the NZTech Group, we’re helping members engage with Government on a wide range of critical issues, including:

• Developing a national AI strategy 
• The regulation of gene technologies 
• Improving government procurement
• Online safety and cybersecurity 
• Consumer data rights
• Data centre energy use

We have a members-only monthly tech policy update for those who want to keep their finger on the pulse with policy developments affecting the tech sector. Members can sign up here.

I’m back in Wellington this week, working with Toi Mai to maintain momentum on digital skills. I’ll also be attending the Animal/Plant Health Conference, which is exploring how AI and gene tech can support a safer, healthier, and more productive primary sector. Do you see gaps in policy that could help our sector grow faster? I’d love to hear about them. Get in touch here.

Have a great week.

Ngā mihi nui,
Graeme Muller
CEO
NZTech

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Shaping smarter policy with tech, skills, and AI.
Read full news here: 💡Tech powering productivity, policy, and digital skills

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