Minister for the Digital Economy and Communications, David Clark has today unveiled a new strategy for New Zealand to harness the full potential of the digital economy.
Te Rautaki Matihiko mō Aotearoa – The Digital Strategy for Aotearoa will be New Zealand’s trusty roadmap, as it navigates an increasingly digital world, said Minister Clark.
“The strategy unveiled today provides an overarching framework for how we want to shape New Zealand’s digital future. It revolves around three key pillars: Mahi Tika – Trust, Mahi Tahi – Inclusion and Mahi Ake – Growth,” he said.
“Last year we engaged with a wide range of groups and people during public consultation, to help refine the final strategy. We’ve ended up with a document that is well informed and incredibly ambitious.”
The strategy has set targets for fewer cyber incidents than comparable countries, greater high-speed internet availability to all New Zealanders, and a clearer pathway for the digital and ICT sector to become the country’s leading export earner.
“The strategy will continue to evolve with technology, adapting to include new issues and opportunities as they arrive,” said Mr Clark.
“The digital technologies sector has shown it can contribute significantly to the country’s economic growth. Between 2015 and 2020, the sector grew 77% faster than the overall economy. In 2020 alone, it contributed $7.4 billion to the economy.
“Technology has also helped glue our communities back together throughout the depths of the COVID-19 restrictions. At a time when we couldn’t be there for each other in person, we had to learn how to work, learn and socialise from our homes,” he said.
You can access the Digital Strategy for Aotearoa here: www.digital.govt.nz/Aotearoa.
