NZTech’s chief executive describes why he thinks the government’s research and development will work, and the pitfalls it needs to avoid.

Why do we need a government-appointed chief technology anyway?  Those sentiments have been echoing around New Zealand’s tech community after the scandal and failed recruitment of marketing techrepreneur Derek Handley.

Graeme Muller says that he has returned from the Bay Area with an understanding of just how valuable the Kiwi-Cali connection will be.

Agritech growth in New Zealand is now getting a helping hand thanks to a deal with US-based firm Western Growers.

We are on the cusp of some massive and exciting tech changes in our lives, says NZTech chief Graeme Muller.

"Many Kiwi companies start in NZ but innovate for the global market, this comes with a big set of challenges."

The Instillery CEO Mike Jenkins and REANNZ CIOO Angela Nash join the board of the not-for-profit organisation that supports the $16b NZ tech industry.

There's often resistance from Asian businesses because they don’t know about New Zealand’s tech ingenuity – something Mitchell Pham finds frustrating.

Muller says NZTech has ‘critical’ concerns that companies currently receiving the growth grant will get less support in future.

The Awards are an opportunity to recognise the very best among New Zealand’s community of Kiwi innovators, entrepreneurs and business leaders.

“When you see them in action, it’s a lot easier to understand how New Zealand, as a nation, can solve global problems using this technology.”

Curran spoke to nearly 200 secondary school girls taking part in ShadowTech 2018.

Olivia manufactures milk powder, breakfast cereals, cookies, probiotics and pregnancy powder.

"We are certain that opportunities like this make a difference in addressing the current gender imbalance in ICT."

“Technology is such an important part of day-to-day life for all Kiwis, meaning that just about everyone has a stake in its success."

“This event is about building New Zealand’s AI community and helping kiwi businesses better serve their customers with AI."

Mistry previously worked for the Manukau Institute of Technology, Wang and Apple and has her own company CreateOps.

CEO Graeme Muller says these major tech developments will significantly impact lives of New Zealanders for the better.

Tomas Izo leads a Google team of engineers and scientists researching digital issues which contribute to a wide range of products.

“We are too small to do global things on our own.”

"Left unaddressed this digital divide will exacerbate the social divide."

"New Zealand is becoming one of the top 10 tech countries in the world. We are not just rugby and tourism anymore.”

“As soon as you remove the preconception that everyone needs a degree you can tap into lots of new talent," says NZTech CEO Graeme Muller.

NZTech’s annual report states that it's committed to creating more prosperity for New Zealand underpinned by technology.