Brand

A report indicates AI data center startup Fluidstack is pursuing a significant funding round, potentially valuing it at $18 billion. This follows a previous $7.5 billion valuation and a major deal to build data centers for Anthropic, underscoring the escalating investment in foundational AI infrastructure.

A proposed goldmine in Central Otago faces significant opposition, including from the government's environmental watchdog. This development highlights growing public and regulatory sensitivity towards large-scale resource extraction projects in New Zealand, impacting regional branding and corporate social responsibility.

Fonterra farmers received significant payouts, prompting financial experts to advise prioritising debt reduction over discretionary spending. This guidance highlights a cautious approach to rural finances, impacting marketing strategies targeting the agricultural sector and broader regional economies.

The upcoming 2026 New Zealand general election is predicted to be heavily influenced by the lingering effects and narratives of the COVID-19 pandemic. This focus on past responses and economic consequences will shape political discourse, potentially impacting public sentiment and consumer behaviour, necessitating adaptable marketing strategies.

ANZ's latest economic outlook suggests a longer period of high interest rates, impacting consumer spending and business confidence. This necessitates a strategic shift for New Zealand marketers, focusing on value and efficiency amidst a tightening economic landscape.

The AUT Trust in News report for 2026 indicates a resurgence in public confidence toward traditional news outlets in New Zealand. This trend emerges as concerns grow over AI-generated content and misinformation prevalent on social media platforms.

New Zealand retailers are calling for a 'Temu tax' to address competitive disadvantages posed by international online platforms. This initiative seeks to level the playing field by ensuring foreign e-commerce giants contribute to local economic frameworks, mirroring existing GST obligations for goods over NZ$1,000.

Rent the Runway is diversifying its revenue streams by launching a marketplace and expanding its product categories beyond occasion wear. This strategic pivot aims to enhance customer lifetime value and attract new audiences, offering valuable insights for New Zealand retailers facing similar market pressures.

Amidst global fuel price volatility, New Zealand is considering following other nations in temporarily offering free public transport. This potential shift highlights evolving consumer behaviour and presents both challenges and opportunities for marketers adapting to changing mobility patterns and economic pressures.

The Motion Picture Association (MPA) chairman acknowledged AI's transformative power in storytelling and fan engagement while addressing industry anxieties. This signals a growing acceptance of AI's creative applications, moving beyond mere efficiency gains. Marketers must now consider AI's role in content creation and audience interaction.

Google is integrating 'Skills' into its Chrome browser, enabling users to save and reuse AI prompts across various websites. This enhancement, building on Gemini's browser capabilities, promises to significantly boost efficiency for marketers by automating repetitive AI-driven tasks.

Google Chrome has introduced a new 'Skills' feature, allowing users to save and reuse AI prompts directly within the browser. This development significantly enhances efficiency for repetitive AI-driven tasks across various webpages.