AI is making the biggest impact in IT and cybersecurity. But in three years, it’s expected to revolutionise product development and R&D, says Mike Horne. Photo / 123rf
AI is making the biggest impact in IT and cybersecurity. But in three years, it’s expected to revolutionise product development and R&D, says Mike Horne. Photo / 123rf
THE FACTS
New Zealand business leaders are leveraging AI and digital tools to drive sustainable progress.
Two-thirds of corporate leaders are confident in their company’s performance despite global volatility.
Eighty-six % of CEOs plan to increase sustainability investment, emphasising efficiency and adaptability.
As we celebrate the achievements of New Zealand’s leading companies at the Deloitte Top 200 Awards, it’s clear that our business leaders are not just reacting to change - they’re shaping it.
In an era where technology and innovation are reshaping the way businesses operate, New Zealand businessleaders are seizing opportunities to grow. The Deloitte Top 200 finalists and winners are leading this charge; leveraging digital tools, embracing AI, and driving sustainable progress. It’s a privilege to celebrate their leadership and impact as they step into this new landscape with quiet confidence.
The results of the inaugural Deloitte APEC CEO Survey 2025 support this feeling of a growing optimism, showing that Kiwi CEOs are positive, tough, and ready to lead. Despite global volatility, two-thirds of New Zealand’s corporate leaders are confident in their company’s performance over the next year, and more than half are optimistic about the global economy. This is a powerful signal: our leaders are not waiting for certainty, they’re creating it.
After years of turbulence, underlying economic conditions are beginning to stabilise. Inflationary pressures are easing, access to capital is improving, and supply chain disruptions have largely abated. These shifts are creating a more robust environment for business planning and investment. But in this new landscape, success will thrive on a simple principle: control what you can control.
New Zealand businesses must have confidence in their investment decisions. That means focusing on the things within reach, like strategy, talent, and technology, and making bold choices even when the future isn’t perfectly clear.
Mike Horne.
Artificial intelligence is no longer a buzzword; it’s becoming a backbone for business. Over half of Apec CEOs are investing in AI and automation to build operational resilience, and New Zealand is keeping pace. While our rates of AI implementation may trail some peers, our commitment is strong; most Kiwi leaders are now investing in AI governance and infrastructure. Importantly, our leaders are taking ownership of this transformation, with a fifth of NZ companies naming a CEO-led AI strategy.
Today, AI is making the biggest impact in IT and cybersecurity. But in three years, it’s expected to revolutionise product development and R&D. This shift will redefine how we innovate, compete, and grow.
Still, like all opportunities, AI comes with risk. But if that risk is managed, instead of feared, AI will be our biggest stepping stone to innovation. The challenge is to strike the right balance; protect your organisation, but don’t hold back progress.
We’re still seeing technology as the top growth driver for New Zealand firms, but the focus is beginning to shift. Within three years, innovation and new products will take the lead, with growth priorities more than doubling. Geographic expansion is also accelerating - nearly half of New Zealand companies expect most of their sales to come from Apec economies in three years, up from less than a quarter today.
Though we’re an island nation, we can’t afford to be isolated. Staying connected to our international peers through trade, collaboration, and shared innovation is essential. The future of New Zealand business will be regional, not just local.
And with all the talk of AI and advancing technologies, you’d be forgiven for thinking that sustainability has fallen by the wayside for leaders. But our survey found that Kiwi leaders are prioritising sustainability and efficiency. Eighty-six per cent of NZ CEOs expect to increase sustainability investment this year, up from 50% last year, placing us among the region’s leaders in turning commitment into action. As we build supply chains that are efficient, adaptable, and sustainable, we are also keen to ensure that sustainability is embedded in our financial decision-making.
The Deloitte Top 200 Awards are an incredible platform for celebrating the hard work and vision of our business community. This year, they also reflect a broader story, one of resilience, innovation, and transformation. New Zealand businesses are confidently charting a course through the storm.
But progress should be shared, or it’s not progress at all. This is why leaders need to remain committed to working with governments, businesses, and communities to help build a balanced, inclusive, sustainable, innovative, and secure future.
As we look to 2026 and beyond, the message is clear; with strong leadership, a commitment to innovation, a view beyond our shores, and a bold embrace of AI, New Zealand is ready to navigate what lies ahead.
