NZ Tech Podcast

Hear from host Paul Spain and business advisor Jason Langley, as Jason shares insights into business leadership, reflecting on his experiences and evolving role as an independent business advisor. They also delve into various topics and tech news including: 2degrees and Spark satellite-to-mobile newsAmbitious plans for a power cable linking New Zealand and Australia Allstate car insurer sued for tracking drivers Webcam and IOT vulnerabilities Auckland's EV VandalismSkinny's AI brand AmbassadorA big Thanks to our show partners One NZ, Spark, HP, 2degrees and Gorilla Technology.

Join Paul Spain and Ryan Ashton (A Few Quiet Yarns - AFQY) as they delve into the dynamic landscape of AI, autonomous driving technology, and the MWC 2025. They look autonomous vehicles and Kiwi-founded Wayve's expansion in Europe, Meta’s apology for Instagram feeds displaying graphic content, the Mobile World Congress 2025 and the evolving role of AI in areas like browsing, mobile networks and the latest Samsung Galaxy S25 / S25 Ultra. They also shine the spotlight on the importance of showcasing innovation through events like the NZ High Tech Awards, Te Hapori Matihiko, the Māori Tech Awards, and AFQY gatherings. Tune in to hear insights on the New Zealand's tech ecosystem and beyond.Special thanks to our show partners 2degrees, One NZ, Spark, HP and Gorilla Technology.

Host Paul Spain is joined by seasoned tech and telecommunications journalist Bill Bennett. Together, they dive into the evolving landscape of tech, telecommunications and media, including:Sky TV's potential loss of All Blacks rights to DZANRobotics Plus acquired by Yamaha MotorsSome Chinese apps blocked on MP devicesFinancial health of Spark and Chorus future of satellite and mobile networks. AI breach in NZ court name suppression lawMicrosoft AI partnership with SparkKidnapping over cryptocurrency passwordUK’s order to access Apple’s encrypted user dataSpecial thanks to our show partners 2degrees, One NZ, Spark, HP and Gorilla Technology.

Host Paul Spain sits down with Rowan Simpson, Chairman of the Hoku Group and author of "How to Be Wrong." Discover the intriguing journey of Trade Me, Xero, Vend, and Timely as Rowan shares insights from his new book, on building successful companies and the importance of asking the right questions. With candid discussions on New Zealand’s startup ecosystem and investment strategies, this episode offers valuable lessons on understanding the intricacies of the tech ecosystem.A big Thanks to our show partners One NZ, Spark, HP, 2degrees and Gorilla Technology.

Join host Paul Spain and Finn Hogan (Caffeine Daily) as they explore tech news and insights including: Tū Ātea's plan to launch NZ's first commercial Private 5G network at Wellington port Ivo’s Legal tech startup US success Wakapuāwai fund boost to digitise mental health resources New Zealand's Emission targets Musk's bid for OpenAIGoogle's ambitious quantum computing timelinePlus, a look at HP Omnibook Ultra Flip laptop and more!Special thanks to our show partners 2degrees, One NZ, Spark, HP and Gorilla Technology.

Listen in as Paul Spain and Brett Roberts (Creative CAM), dive into the world of tech developments and governmental innovations. This episode covers pivotal topics such as AI safety guidelines for NZ government agencies, the implications of quantum computing in New Zealand, and the fascinating use of AI in pest control. Brett also shares insights on the long reaching impact of Callaghan Innovation and the government's decision to disestablish it. Tune in for an engaging discussion packed with the latest tech news, insights.A big Thanks to our show partners One NZ, Spark, HP, 2degrees and Gorilla Technology.

Host Paul Spain is joined by financial advisor Darcy Ungaro (Ungaro & Co.), as they explore the latest tech news, and take a closer look at the cryptocurrency landscape. Darcy shares insights from his experience as a financial advisor and discusses the balance between being your own bank and the risks involved with cryptocurrency. The conversation also covers crypto firm Ledger co-founder survives kidnapping, the emergence of open-source AI platform DeepSeek, making waves as a potential game-changer in the AI landscape but are there hidden dangers? Plus, we also delve into future of TikTok, Open AI’s Stargate Project and Trump’s pardoning of Silk Road's creator Ross Ulbrich.Special thanks to our show partners 2degrees, One NZ, Spark, HP and Gorilla Technology.

Marian Johnson joins Host Paul Spain, and shares her journey within New Zealand’s Tech sector, including her role as the former chief executive of Ministry of Awesome, and her current roles as Founder and CEO of CareerWise and chair for Electrify Aotearoa Women Founder Programmes and the NZ Hi-Tech Trust. Together they discuss the significance of the NZ Hi-Tech Awards and its role in highlighting and celebrating the country's innovative tech achievements. They explore the importance of fostering diversity, attracting global talent, and the necessity of governmental, immigration and educational policies to further enhance the NZ Tech ecosystem. Tune in to discover the inspiring stories and exciting developments shaping the future of technology in New Zealand.Special thanks to our show partners 2degrees, One NZ, Spark, HP and Gorilla Technology.

Join Josh Webb (Hypr NZ) and host Paul Spain as they delve into cybersecurity concerns following the alleged hacking incident on the U.S. Treasury. They explore key trends from CES 2025 including autonomous systems, innovative robotics and AI virtual training, and discuss New Zealand's pioneering geothermal projects. The episode also covers Northland internet outage and the impact of emerging satellite technology on rural connectivity, the impending U.S. TikTok ban, and Meta’s controversial AI-generated personas and shift to a community-based moderation model and more. Special thanks to our show partners 2degrees, One NZ, Spark, HP and Gorilla Technology.

Listen in as host Paul Spain and guest Adrian Smith, CEO of BlinkPay, dive into the dynamic world of digital banking and fintech. Adrian sheds light on BlinkPay's innovative journey, highlighting their partnership with the Bank of New Zealand and the development of modern financial solutions. The conversation also touches on challenges related to fraud and the importance of customer data control. Together, Paul and Adrian unravel the complex landscape of fintech, emphasising the role of APIs and the future of digital marketplaces in making financial services more accessible and efficient. Join us as we navigate the ever-evolving world of technology in the finance sector.Special thanks to our show partners 2degrees, One NZ, Spark, HP and Gorilla Technology.