NZ Tech Podcast

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

Listen in as host Paul Spain is joined by Stephen Kurzeja (2degrees) to discuss 2degrees’ direct‑to‑cell satellite coverage, and AI‑powered digital transformation. They also review the latest tech news, including Blue Origin’s lunar pivot, Kiwi AI platform helping teachers save time, SpaceX files million‑satellite orbital data‑centre plan, Moltbook's social media for AI, Tesla’s robotics shift, wearables ban at the Australian Open, and much more.Special thanks to our show partners 2degrees, One New Zealand, Spark New Zealand, Workday and Gorilla Technology.