Taiawa Tech Hub delivers $14.4 million economic boost and supports 148 jobs in Wellington

New independent analysis by Infometrics shows Taiawa’s contribution continues to grow, up from $11.9 million GDP and 127 jobs the previous year – a 21% increase in economic output. 

These results reflect Taiawa’s role in helping high-value technology businesses scale, nurture talent, and expand into global markets. 

Many Taiawa businesses develop ‘weightless’ products – software and digital platforms that do not rely on traditional supply chains – enabling rapid growth with minimal infrastructure. By reducing barriers such as cost and access to talent, the hub supports faster business growth and stronger regional returns. 

Mayor Andrew Little welcomes the early benefits that Taiawa Tech Hub is delivering for Wellington. 

“Taiawa shows the power of backing local innovation. These businesses are creating high-value jobs, attracting talent and building globally competitive ideas right here in Wellington,” says Mayor Little. 

“This is the kind of economic growth we want to see more of – innovative, high-value and anchored in our region.” 

Developing the tech sector is a key priority in Wellington’s Regional Economic Development Plan (REDP), under which Taiawa was established to support high-growth companies to collaborate, innovate and scale. Based at Te Herenga Waka – Victoria University of Wellington’s Pipitea campus, and supported by Wellington City Council, the hub connects businesses with researchers, industry and government to accelerate growth and commercialisation. 

Mark Oldershaw, CEO of WellingtonNZ and Chair of the REDP Steering Group, says the Taiawa Tech Hub is helping to diversify the economy while strengthening the region’s tech ecosystem. 

“Taiawa was designed to help ambitious technology businesses scale by connecting them with expertise, research capability and networks that support growth. 

“To see $14.4 million in GDP and 148 jobs supported in just its second year shows real momentum. These companies are not only growing locally but building the capability to compete globally from Wellington. 

“As Taiawa marks its second anniversary, the results highlight the value of long-term investment in innovation-led economic development,” Oldershaw says. 

Strong commercial outcomes

The Infometrics findings are supported by strong results from resident companies, including: 

• A $24 million acquisition of Factor by Gentrack 
• Expansion into the US, UK, Germany and Australian markets 
• Rapid customer growth, including Storbie’s expansion in the US from 3 to 250 customers 

Taiawa businesses operate across software, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, biotechnology, climate tech, fintech and energy technology. The hub fosters collaboration between industry, academia and government, supporting access to talent, investment and specialist expertise while strengthening Wellington’s reputation as a centre for progress. 

Incoming Vice-Chancellor of Te Herenga Waka – Victoria University of Wellington, Professor Bryony James, says Taiawa reflects the strength of city – university collaboration. 

“Taiawa is home to tech startups that combine global ambition with local connection, so it is a perfect fit for a collaboration between the city and the university.  

“The entrepreneurs based in Taiawa call our Pipitea campus home and we love having them there, modelling the behaviours and accomplishments we see in our staff and students – innovation, creativity, and shared aspiration.  

It’s no surprise to us to see the hub’s exceptional regional growth and impact," says Professor James. 

Date published: 17 June 2026