Design Tech is Whanganui's newest sector, coined to reflect the way of thinking the district's growing tech sector is adopting. As New Zealand’s only UNESCO City of Design, this is about applying design thinking frameworks and human-centred methodologies to the development and deployment of technology.
As New Zealand’s only UNESCO City of Design, this is about applying design thinking frameworks and human-centred methodologies to the development and deployment of technology.
It is an approach that strengthens how digital products, platforms, and services are conceived, tested, and delivered, ensuring that technology is shaped around real needs, real users, and real-world contexts.
The basis of this approach is that technology is an enabler that supports innovation across sectors where effective problem-solving and user adoption are critical to impact and value creation.
$135,788
Average GDP per job digital and professional services job in Whanganui
1 in 20
1 in 20 jobs in Whanganui is now a digital, technical, or high-value professional role
$149m
Contribution to GDP from high-value services each year
10 November 2025
Creative Industries
22 February 2026
14 October 2025
Creative Industries
10 November 2025
Creative Industries
22 February 2026
14 October 2025
Creative Industries
In Whanganui, businesses grow through a connected, collegiate ecosystem - one that values collaboration, shared knowledge, and long-term capability building. From early-stage founders to established firms, there are clear pathways to advice, space, funding, and sector-led networks designed to support businesses as they scale.
Our approach to investment is intentional, by focusing on opportunities that align with Whanganui’s strengths, support sustainable growth, and deliver long-term value for the district.
Whether you’re an investor, business, or intermediary, we help you understand the landscape, navigate the ecosystem, and connect with the right people to move forward.
our team
Opportunities grow with discovery and an understanding of how to shape them, this is where we come in.
We can support businesses, investors and communities by giving direction for opportunities and relationships that form a path of growth.
Rach Hoskin
Education & Technology
Rach works closely with education providers and industry to make sure that the right training and educational opportunities are available to build the skills that our economy needs.
Rach Hoskin
Education & Technology
Rach works closely with education providers and industry to make sure that the right training and educational opportunities are available to build the skills that our economy needs.
