Minister of Science, Innovation and Technology Shane Reti has announced increased support for early-stage game studios and startups to strengthen New Zealand’s rapidly expanding game development industry.
Starting in 2026, the government will double the funding for the Centre of Digital Excellence (CODE) by adding $2.75 million annually. This increase will enable more grants for prototypes, production, and travel to support emerging game developers.
“New Zealand’s game developers are creating world-class products and jobs while generating hundreds of millions in export earnings,” Reti said.
“CODE’s support for our gaming sector is highly successful. Typically, for every 1,000 pitches to publishers, in recent years only 1.6% are securing signing deals. On the other hand, studios supported by CODE have an incredibly high success rate of 40%.”
“CODE’s programmes currently receive twice as many applications as they can fund. By doubling funding for CODE, we’re backing our innovators to grow faster and reach global markets.”
In 2024, the industry generated $513 million and is expected to exceed $750 million in 2025, with revenues projected to reach $1 billion by 2027, primarily driven by international sales.
Employment increased by 29% last year, adding 321 new jobs.
“This is about more than games – it’s about high-tech jobs, export growth and putting New Zealand creativity on the world stage,” Reti added.