New Zealand offers a diverse and attractive environment for various industries, due to its unique geographical location, high quality of life, stable economy, and progressive policies. Some industries particularly attracted to New Zealand include:
 

1. Agriculture and Agritech

• Why: New Zealand has a strong agricultural heritage and is one of the world’s largest producers of dairy, meat, wool, and wine. The country’s fertile land, advanced farming practices, and reputation for producing high-quality food products make it a hub for agricultural businesses.
   

• Attraction: Agritech startups are flourishing in New Zealand, with innovations in sustainable farming, precision agriculture, and biotechnology. The country also has a commitment to environmental sustainability, which is increasingly attractive to investors and companies seeking to innovate in agriculture.
  
  The following regions are particularly focussed on Agriculture and Agritech:

  • Canterbury

  • Waikato

  • Otago

  • Southland

  • Northland

  • Manawatū
     

2. Tourism and Hospitality

• Why: New Zealand's diverse and stunning landscapes, including mountains, beaches, and forests, attract millions of tourists each year. It's also known for adventure tourism, eco-tourism, and luxury travel.
   

• Attraction: The tourism sector is a significant contributor to New Zealand's economy, with opportunities in travel agencies, tour operators, hotel chains, and hospitality tech. The country's emphasis on sustainability makes it an attractive destination for eco-conscious travelers.
  The following regions are
  particularly focussed on Tourism and Hospitality:

  • Queenstown​

  • Auckland

  • Christchurch

  • Wellington

  • Nelson

  • West Coast 

  • Otago 
     

3. Film and Entertainment

• Why: New Zealand has a globally recognized film industry, bolstered by blockbuster films such as The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. The country's scenic locations, state-of-the-art facilities, and talented professionals make it a favorite for film production.
   

• Attraction: The government offers incentives for filmmakers, and with New Zealand's reputation for creativity and technical expertise, companies in the film, animation, and visual effects industries find the country appealing for both production and post-production.
  
  The following regions are particularly focussed on the international film industry:

  • Christchurch​

  • Otago

  • Southland

  • Auckland
     

4. Renewable Energy and Cleantech

• Why: New Zealand is a world leader in renewable energy, with a substantial portion of its electricity generated from hydropower, wind, and geothermal sources. The country is committed to sustainability and has ambitious targets to reduce carbon emissions.
   

• Attraction: There is a growing demand for clean technologies, including energy-efficient systems, waste management, and carbon-neutral solutions. The country's commitment to the environment and green energy makes it an attractive destination for cleantech startups and energy companies.
  
  The following regions are particularly focussed on renewable energy:

  • Taranaki​

  • Nelson Tasman
     

5. Technology and Innovation

• Why: New Zealand has a rapidly growing tech sector, particularly in areas like software development, artificial intelligence (AI), and blockchain technology. The country’s relatively low cost of living and proximity to global markets in Asia-Pacific also make it an attractive base for tech companies.
   

• Attraction: The government provides funding and tax incentives for tech startups, and there’s a growing ecosystem of innovation hubs and incubators. New Zealand also has strong intellectual property laws that attract tech entrepreneurs and investors.
  
  The following regions are particularly focussed on renewable energy: 

  • Otago​​

  • Wellington

  • Auckland
     

6. Financial Services and Fintech

• Why: New Zealand has a well-regulated financial sector with a strong banking system and stable economy. Its proximity to Asia-Pacific markets, coupled with a growing interest in digital and mobile banking, makes it an appealing location for financial services companies.
   

• Attraction: The fintech sector is rapidly growing, with opportunities in payments, digital currencies, financial software, and blockchain applications. New Zealand is seen as a safe and forward-thinking environment for fintech innovation.
  
  The following regions of New Zealand are proactive in the Financial Services and Fintech sectors:

  • Auckland​

  • Wellington
     

7. Education and Edtech

• Why: New Zealand is known for its high-quality education system and is a popular destination for international students, especially from Asia. The country’s universities and research institutions are respected globally.

• Attraction: New Zealand is a hub for Edtech, offering a range of opportunities in online learning, educational software, and virtual classrooms. Edtech companies are attracted by the country’s commitment to innovation in education and its excellent digital infrastructure.
  
  The following regions of New Zealand are proactive in the Education and EDtech sectors:

  • Auckland

  • Wellington

  • Waikato

  • Manganui

  • Otago

  • Christchurch​
    ​

8. Healthcare and Biotechnology

• Why: New Zealand has a well-established healthcare system, with a strong focus on research and development in the medical and biotechnology fields. The country also attracts medical tourism, particularly for elective surgeries and wellness retreats.
   

• Attraction: The biotech sector in New Zealand is expanding, with opportunities in medical devices, pharmaceuticals, and healthcare innovation. The country's supportive regulatory environment and advanced R&D make it a good fit for biotech companies looking to scale.
  
  The following regions of New Zealand are proactive in the Healthcare and Biotechnology sectors:

  • Auckland

  • Wellington

  • Christchurch

  • Otago​
    
     

9. Forestry and Wood Products

• Why: New Zealand has vast forested areas and is one of the world's leading exporters of timber and wood products. The country is a significant player in the global forestry industry.
   

• Attraction: With a focus on sustainable forestry practices, New Zealand attracts investment in the wood processing, pulp and paper, and timber industries. It is also becoming a leader in the development of biofuels and other renewable materials derived from wood products.
  
  The following regions of New Zealand are proactive in the Forestry and Wood Products industries. 

  • Otago

  • Tairāwhiti

  • Northland

  • Bay of Plenty

  • Southland
     

10. Marine and Aquaculture

• Why: With its vast coastline and rich marine resources, New Zealand has a thriving seafood industry and is a global leader in aquaculture, particularly in farming mussels, salmon, and other shellfish.
   

• Attraction: The marine and aquaculture sectors continue to innovate with a focus on sustainability, quality, and expanding export markets. Companies involved in seafood production, marine technology, and fisheries management find New Zealand to be a prime location.
  
  The following regions of New Zealand have a strong marine and aquaculture industry

  • Nelson Tasman

  • West Coast

  • Marlborough

  • Northland

  • Southland​
     

11. Logistics and Distribution

• Why: New Zealand is strategically located in the Asia-Pacific region