Taranaki has developed a burgeoning technology and innovation ecosystem, attracting like-minded people to ideas and start-ups and providing scope for further development and investment.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, technology and innovation became more prevalent than ever before, as Taranaki enterprises raced to collaborate and transform quickly to support productivity and functionality during the restrictions introduced around the country.
Innovation is coming to the fore across all sectors.
And backed by the region’s world-class fibre broadband, it enables online business to grow, connect and communicate with collaborators and markets around the world.
Existing local networks, innovation events, incubators, and co-working spaces can help kick-start ideas or provide connections to help ideas grow. These include Technology Taranaki, Taranaki Software Developers, and meet-up events on a range of topics, such as blockchain and cloud computing. A range of support facilities are also available, such as connecting entrepreneurs with investors via the angel investment entity Launch Taranaki.
Taranaki has a range of events where ideas can be proffered, picked up, nurtured and supported, including Start-Up Weekend Taranaki, Hack Taranaki, TechWeek and PowerUp/incubation support.
The region also has a wealth of well-established innovation and IT knowledge across specialist engineering, manufacturing, energy, and food companies.
This enables the engagement of talented and skilled specialists from within the region – people with established local knowledge and connections.
As Taranaki’s economy expands, technology and innovation are helping the region plot an exciting path into a future full of opportunities for new enterprise and investment. Opportunities include:
Industry-specific automation: Leveraging the region’s established strengths.
Digital and professional services: Supporting activity across multiple sectors.
Surveying and mapping: Harnessing the region’s central location.
Computer systems design and related services: Maximising lifestyle and affordability advantages.
Learn more about what's happening in Taranaki’s innovation eco-system with PowerUp.
Investing in Taranaki: See our case studies
