Listen in as Paul Spain sits down with Shan Moorthy, Chief Technology Officer for APAC at Workday, for an in-depth conversation on the rapid evolution of AI in the workplace. They explore the latest trends around generative and agentic AI, discuss real-world successes and setbacks from AI adoption, and dig into strategies for organisations looking to leverage AI safely, efficiently, and at scale. This episode offers valuable insights on navigating the complexities of AI integration, covering eve...
Apr 28, 2026•1 hr 8 min•Ep. 786
Host Paul Spain and Adrian Smith, founder and CEO of BlinkPay, explore open banking, the impacts of the Consumer Product Data Act, and how BlinkPay is helping reshape payments and data sharing in Aotearoa. Adrian delves into the practical challenges of legacy banking tech and the latest innovations in consumer payments. Together they look at the latest tech news including: The dramatic pivot of Allbirds into AI infrastructure Rocket Lab’s new electric thruster technology Hidden Bluetooth tracker...
Apr 21, 2026•1 hr 13 min•Ep. 785
Join host Paul Spain and Nilay Rathod (Spark) as they explore this week’s tech stories including Scentian Bio’s $7m Boost, Lanaco's wool-based space filtration on Artemis II, Air NZ to expand digital ID trials, Anthropic’s Project Glasswing, China’s supercomputer breach and Amazon Leo launch updates. Plus, Nilay discusses how Spark’s collaboration with Starlink is revolutionising connectivity, the impacts of shutting down 3G, the role of AI in business transformation and cybersecurity and what’s...
Apr 14, 2026•48 min•Ep. 784
Host Paul Spain is joined by Brett Roberts as they unpack the latest tech news from New Zealand and the wider world. From Peter Beck’s bold leadership, a look back at Apple’s 50‑year legacy of design and disruption, a trip around the moon with Artemis 2 crew and more. Topics include: Peter Beck cuts his Rocket Lab salary to $1 Spark launches Starlink satellite‑to‑mobile services NZ Government funding shifts toward emerging Tech Autonomous vehicle challenges and failures Apple’s 50 years of innov...
Apr 07, 2026•49 min•Ep. 783
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 productivi...
Mar 31, 2026•56 min•Ep. 782
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 ...
Mar 24, 2026•34 min•Ep. 781
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 target A big thank you to our...
Mar 17, 2026•52 min•Ep. 780
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 Code 2degrees and Ericsson’s private 5G rollout at Lyttelton Port NZ cyber security stratergy 2026 - 2030 Apple’s budget MacBook Neo Google’s Play Store fee cuts Special thanks to our show partners 2degrees, Fortinet, One New...
Mar 10, 2026•47 min•Ep. 779
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 suc...
Mar 03, 2026•1 hr 3 min•Ep. 778
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 ...
Feb 24, 2026•55 min•Ep. 777
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 increased Chris Liddell joins Anthropic Parking fine Tech mishaps Russian Soldiers tricked by fake Starlink registrations Ring doorbe...
Feb 17, 2026•51 min•Ep. 776
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 fut...
Feb 10, 2026•1 hr 33 min•Ep. 775
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, O...
Feb 03, 2026•56 min•Ep. 774
Join host Paul Spain as he sits down with Sam Vye of Syos Aerospace , a trailblazing New Zealand tech company shaking up the unmanned vehicle industry. Hear how Syos rapidly prototypes cutting-edge drones, outpaces global defence giants, and scales from Kiwi innovation to international contracts. Discover their unique engineering culture, rapid product development, and what it takes to compete with the world’s biggest aerospace companies. Thanks to our Partners One NZ, Workday, 2degrees, HP, Spa...
Jan 27, 2026•46 min•Ep. 773
Hear from host Paul Spain and Seeby Woodhouse ( Voyager Internet ) as they unpack this week's tech news including, One NZ kicking off its 3G shutdown in Dunedin, Radio Trackers boost Auckland’s hornet hunt, EB Games’ nationwide exit and the government’s new AI advisory pilot for SMEs. They explore Apple's choice to use Gemini AI for Siri and Grok’s deepfake controversy. Plus, Seeby shares candid reflections on leadership, work-life balance, and why coming back to hands-on management has been bot...
Jan 20, 2026•53 min•Ep. 772
Callum McMenamin (OpenAccess) joins host Paul Spain to unpack Manage My Health data breach, exploring critical shortcomings in cybersecurity and the lack of mandatory multi-factor authentication. They also cover Kereru.ai’s sovereign AI project with SCX.ai, plus CES 2026 highlights including gadgets, LG’s CLOiD chore robot, LEGO’s sensor‑packed Smart Bricks, Boston Dynamics’ production Atlas, Intel’s Core Ultra Series 3 comeback bid, Nvidia’s Alpamayo autonomous driving platform and CES 2026 “Wo...
Jan 13, 2026•53 min•Ep. 771
Host Paul Spain talks with Robomate founder Lachlan Murray about how robotics are transforming life in New Zealand. They cover Robomate’s origins, advances in robotic lawnmowers and vacuums and the challenges of importing and supporting these technologies locally. Murray emphasizes fit-for-purpose products and strong customer support. The episode explores China’s rapid robotics innovation, future AI trends, and how smart devices are reshaping homes and businesses across Aotearoa. Perfect for tec...
Jan 06, 2026•54 min•Ep. 770
Listen in as host Paul Spain sits down with Chris Smith , Co-founder and CEO of Count , an AI-powered accounting platform aiming to disrupt the likes of Xero and traditional accounting software. Chris shares his journey from early startups like Dash Tickets at university, and STQRY to working with Meta, and the inspiration and challenges behind launching Count. He discusses its rapid growth, global team, and competitive edge against industry giants. They also explore lessons learned from Silicon...
Dec 30, 2025•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 769
Hear from Paul Spain and Ben O'Brien as they unpack the latest tech news including NZ Police’s redaction glitch, a new Government Digital Delivery Agency, smart TV privacy concerns, James Powell's transition from Dawn Aerospace and Waymo’s outage pause and the future of autonomous vehicles. Plus, Ben O'Brien shares insights from his upcoming book for founders. A must-listen for tech enthusiasts and entrepreneurs! We'd love to get your feedback, please fill in our short survey and go into the dra...
Dec 23, 2025•51 min•Ep. 768
Join Paul Spain and Greg Shanahan , Managing Director at Veriphi and TIN , as they delve into the 2025 TIN Report revealing key takeaways, growth sectors, the evolving world of tech exports, and how NZ companies are navigating the challenges and opportunities in capital, talent, and global competition. They also discuss some of the latest tech news including the new Govt.nz app, 3G shutdown timelines, and Australia’s under‑16 social media ban. Plus, NZ Tech Podcast survey giveaways and a quick g...
Dec 16, 2025•55 min•Ep. 767
Host Paul Spain is joined by tech journalist Bill Bennett to unpack the latest tech news, including Two Kiwi made apps scoop Apple’s 2025 App Store Awards, Open banking is officially mandated in New Zealand. We discuss banks’ device and behavioural surveillance, RAM price hikes and India’s compulsory cyber safety app. Plus Motorola's latest phones and our Christmas Tech Gifts guide featuring Dyson’s PencilVac, AirPods Pro 3 and more. A big thank you to our show partners One NZ, Spark, Workday, H...
Dec 09, 2025•59 min•Ep. 766
Hear from host Paul Spain and Professional race car driver, James Corban , as they dive into the world of motorsport. James Corban his unique journey from racing novice to championship winner, and explains how data, simulators, and the right mindset have played a vital role in his rapid rise. The conversation explores everything from professional-grade sim racing setups to the challenges—and costs—of entering international motorsport, with insider insights on how elite drivers use data and simul...
Dec 02, 2025•40 min•Ep. 765
Join Paul Spain as he sits down with Bowen Pan , an inspiring tech entrepreneur whose journey spans from founding uniFriend while at the University of Auckland, leading product at Trade Me, and making a massive impact in Silicon Valley with Facebook Marketplace and Stripe. Bowen shares invaluable lessons on ambition, failure, and the evolution of New Zealand’s tech scene. Tune in for insights on global experience fuelling local innovation, and advice to spark your own bold moves in technology! S...
Nov 25, 2025•44 min•Ep. 764
Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown talks with Paul Spain about the future of technology in Auckland and New Zealand. The mayor shares his vision for making Auckland a leading tech hub and how he believes the city can better contribute to New Zealand’s economy. From his experience leading business delegations to China and India, to his hands-on approach supporting the Auckland Tech Alliance and pushing for digital innovation within local government, Wayne Brown offers his viewpoints on city-to-city conne...
Nov 18, 2025•43 min•Ep. 763
Host Paul Spain is joined by Jonathan Brabant ( Workday ), for a deep dive into how Workday is helping Kiwi businesses modernise their HR and finance systems. From cloud-native architecture to AI-powered insights, discover how Workday is enabling smarter decisions and driving agility across Aotearoa. Plus, we unpack the latest tech news including Microsoft’s AI pricing apology and refunds in NZ and Australia, Meta’s revenue from fraudulent ads, Lensare's award winning glasses, $35k teleoperated ...
Nov 11, 2025•55 min•Ep. 762
Hear from host Paul Spain as he sits down with Philippa Cogswell ( Palo Alto Networks’ Unit 42 ), to unpack the fast-moving world of cybersecurity. Philippa shares insights into global incident response, including the rise of business disruption tactics, multi-surface attacks and the growing challenges posed by supply chain vulnerabilities. The conversation highlights research findings, including the speed of attacks and the increasing use of AI in cybercrime, plus practical advice for both larg...
Nov 04, 2025•52 min•Ep. 761
Hear from host Paul Spain and Alyona Medelyan ( Thematic ) as they discuss highlights from Auckland Startup Week, and review tech news from the week including, NZ’s undersea drone push to protect vital cables, Rural internet pressures amid Starlink’s rise, AWS DNS triggers widespread outages, major fraud stories span crypto empires and rigged poker. Plus, Alyona shares insights on leadership, startup culture lessons, and how Thematic helps businesses with customer feedback analytics. A big thank...
Oct 28, 2025•53 min•Ep. 760
Join Paul Spain as he chats with Scott Spooner ( SPS Automation ). Discover the fascinating world of bespoke robotics, from AI-powered agricultural drones combating wilding pines to spectacular drone light shows. Scott shares SPS’s journey from garage startup to cutting-edge innovations, including hybrid-powered heavy-lift drones, swarm technology, and navigating New Zealand’s flexible regulatory landscape. If you’re passionate about tech, aviation, and the future of autonomous vehicles, then li...
Oct 21, 2025•25 min•Ep. 759
Join host Paul Spain and Jovan Pavlicevic ( Emerge & Square One ) as they discuss the latest tech news including Google’s Honomoana cable and its economic promise, IT Professionals NZ closure, Discord’s leaked ID photos, NZ’s new “How Exposed Am I?” tool. Carparking surveillance, Brewers revert to pen-and-paper due to hackers and China-US rare earth export saga. Plus, Jovan shares how Emerge & SquareOne’s innovative fintech solutions are transforming youth banking, SME financial manageme...
Oct 14, 2025•1 hr 6 min•Ep. 758
Host Paul Spain reconnects with Stefan Powel l, co-founder and CEO of Dawn Aerospace , to discuss the rapid evolution of New Zealand’s space sector. Stefan shares the highs and lows of steering an aerospace startup through rapid growth, the realities of innovating in both aircraft and space tech, and what it’s taken to build customer trust in a high-stakes industry. Explore Dawn Aerospace’s advances in reusable space planes and green in-space propulsion, the company’s international growth, and h...
Oct 07, 2025•42 min•Ep. 757
