Wellington stories - Page 2

Tim Dacombe-Bird has been named Head of Google Cloud New Zealand, leading local AI and digital transformation efforts from Wellington.

Bebop, an AI sales tool by Black Pearl Group, reached NZD $1.2 million ARR in 45 days, targeting SMEs with affordable, high-quality sales intelligence.

Deloitte New Zealand has promoted 32 leaders, including 13 partners and 19 directors, across divisions reflecting its ongoing growth and expertise investment.

Tuatahi First Fibre has appointed Ventia as its primary partner in a NZD $110 million deal to support its expanding fibre broadband network across New Zealand.

Bolt has launched its ride-hailing service in Auckland, aiming to challenge market leaders with more driver-friendly terms and affordable fares.

Romano's has launched its first-ever brand campaign, using generative AI to create Italian art-inspired adverts with a distinct New Zealand twist.

Projectworks has secured NZD $25 million in Series A funding to expand globally, integrating AI tools and boosting its team by 50% amid strong industry recognition.

Blackpearl's annual recurring revenue rose 70% to USD $12.5 million, as it targets US SME growth and aims for USD $50 million ARR with new AI tools.

Xero has launched Tap to Pay on iPhone in New Zealand, enabling small businesses to accept contactless payments via the Xero app without extra hardware.

Massey University researchers in Wellington have trialled a low-cost, community-based earthquake early warning system using local volunteers and MEMS sensors.

SYOS Aerospace has won the PwC Hi-Tech Company of the Year at the 2025 NZ Hi-Tech Awards, recognising its growth and international export success.

Salamander Advisory partners with Creative HQ to boost post-acceleration support, helping NZ B2B tech startups scale up with expert operational guidance.

Police warned of 'very high' privacy risks in shifting sensitive data to Microsoft's cloud, amid a cautious trial in Wellington started in 2023.

Rust Forge 2025, a new international tech conference for around 200 developers, will be held at Shed 6 in Wellington from 27-30 August 2025.

Sharesight has introduced a new fintech tool aimed at easing the tax burden for accountants managing complex investment portfolios, enhancing efficiency and accuracy.

A new mobile web app called Volition is enhancing decision-making for people with disabilities in New Zealand, promoting personal agency and communication.

Blackpearl Group has appointed Christie Kerner as Chief Operating Officer to drive its US expansion, leveraging her 30 years in scaling successful businesses.

Gallagher Security has appointed Morgan Ruigrok as Business Development Manager for the Lower North Island, reinforcing their commitment to growth in New Zealand.

Over 300 firms across New Zealand are finalists in the 30th Hi-Tech Awards, showcasing innovation across diverse tech sectors nationwide.

Black Pearl Group has appointed Max Polaczuk as Vice President of Artificial Intelligence, signalling a major shift towards an AI-centric business strategy.