NZ Tech Podcast

Join host Paul Spain and James Bergin (Xero) as they unpack this week’s tech news, including Halter’s multi-million-dollar funding, NZ Hi-Tech Awards 2026 finalists announced, the end of the 3G era in New Zealand, landmark legal cases against Meta, concerns about privacy with smart glasses, and rising cybersecurity risks. James also shares insights into Xero’s multi-year partnership with Anthropic, aiming to deliver real-time financial intelligence, as well as Xero’s ongoing impact on productivity and innovation across New Zealand.Special thanks to our show partners: 2degrees, Fortinet, One New Zealand, Spark New Zealand, Workday, and Gorilla Technology.

Host Paul Spain is joined by Jamie Beaton, co-founder and CEO of Crimson Education. Jamie shares updates on Crimson’s impressive growth over the past five years, from expanding their core mission of getting students into the world’s top universities, to launching new ventures like the fully accredited Crimson Global Academy and New Zealand’s innovative Aotearoa Infinite Academy charter school. The conversation digs into the role of AI and technology in modern education, how Crimson leverages AI to enhance student learning, streamline visa applications, and empower teachers. You’ll also hear about Crimson’s recent acquisitions, the evolution of their own tech stack, and practical strategies for students to manage digital distractions.Thanks to our Partners One NZ, Workday, 2degrees, Spark, Fortinet and Gorilla Technology

Listen in as host Paul Spain sits down with Joe Goddard (One NZ) as they explore One NZ's satellite-to-mobile networks, introduction of One Wallet and Phone Dollars and what’s next for One NZ.They also review tech news from the week including:InternetNZ’s latest findings on Kiwis’ online habits and AI caution Datagrid’s South Island 'AI factory' QR-code food labels concerns Starlink’s pricing backlash for pilots,150 years of the telephone NASA’s Artemis II launch targetA big thank you to our show partners One NZ, Spark, Workday, 2degrees, Fortinet and Gorilla Technology.

Join Paul Spain as he sits down with Dr Ojas Mahapatra, Group CEO of Mars Bioimaging Ltd, to explore cutting-edge advances in portable CT scanning and the future of medtech innovation from Christchurch.Plus a look at tech news from the week including:NZ’s new Online Scams Code2degrees and Ericsson’s private 5G rollout at Lyttelton PortNZ cyber security stratergy 2026 - 2030Apple’s budget MacBook NeoGoogle’s Play Store fee cutsSpecial thanks to our show partners 2degrees, Fortinet, One New Zealand, Spark New Zealand, Workday and Gorilla Technology.

Host Paul Spain is joined by James Pinner, CEO of New Zealand Growth Capital Partners (NZGCP), to explore the impact of New Zealand’s venture capital and startup scene. Together, they dig into the origins of NZGCP, the changing landscape for Kiwi startups, and the crucial role government funding plays in building a thriving tech ecosystem. They discuss how government-backed funds, bold startups, and a thriving venture capital landscape are driving economic growth and innovation. From unicorn success stories like Rocket Lab to the challenges of early investment and KiwiSaver’s role, this episode is packed with insights for founders, investors, and tech enthusiasts alike.Thanks to our Partners One NZ, Workday, 2degrees, Spark, Fortinet and Gorilla Technology

Host Paul Spain sits down with Shane Smith, the co-founder of Education Perfect, for a fascinating dive into the world of edtech innovation. Shane shares the story behind Education Perfect’s rise, building a gamified language learning platform that now helps millions of students and teachers across Australia and New Zealand. The conversation covers early development and key technical challenges, the role of AI in shaping personalised feedback and learning experiences, and thoughtful insights on balancing technology with integrity and data privacy in education.Special thanks to our show partners 2degrees, Fortinet, One New Zealand, Spark New Zealand, Workday and Gorilla Technology.

Join Paul Spain as he welcomes Marian Johnson for a lively discussion about New Zealand’s tech innovation scene. Explore the NZ Hi-Tech Awards, tips for aspiring finalists, Partly’s exciting journey in North America, and why New Zealand is positioned to lead globally in technology and innovation.Plus, the latest tech news including:NZ’s annual space launch limit increasedChris Liddell joins AnthropicParking fine Tech mishapsRussian Soldiers tricked by fake Starlink registrationsRing doorbell Superbowl ad sparks privacy backlashBlue Origin unveils TeraWave Satellite Internet ServiceA big thank you to our show partners One NZ, Spark, Workday, 2degrees, Fortinet and Gorilla Technology.

Dive into the world of OpenClaw as Paul Spain is joined by industry leaders Seeby Woodhouse (Voyager Internet) and Nigel Parker (Vivara). together they explore what makes OpenClaw so groundbreaking, discuss its potential for transforming both the way we work and the broader tech industry, and reflect on the excitement, and risks, of this latest advancement in AI-powered assistants that’s taking the tech world by storm. Hear about its game-changing potential, security challenges, and what the future might hold. Plus, essential advice for those eager to experiment. Don’t miss this timely, thought-provoking discussion!Thanks to our Partners One NZ, Workday, 2degrees, HP, Spark, Fortinet and Gorilla Technology