Productivity Propelled:
New Zealand’s AI adoption landscape and its impact on productivity in the last year.
Commissioned by 2degrees and prepared by Deloitte Access Economics, Productivity Propelled examines the real drivers of productivity across New Zealand’s economy.
This second edition delivers the first New Zealand‑specific evidence that AI adoption is already having a measurable impact on business productivity.
82%
of New Zealand businesses currently use AI.
29% to 34%
AI's share of technology spend is expected to rise over the next two years.
4.3%
higher revenue for AI-adopting SMEs compared with equivalent non-adopters.
6.8%
higher revenue for AI-adopting large businesses compared with equivalent non-adopters.
INSIGHT
AI is here, but the opportunity is bigger than the tools
AI use is already widespread across New Zealand business. The report found that 82% of businesses currently use AI, while AI’s share of technology spend is expected to rise from 29% to 34% over the next two years.
BUSINESS LENS
What this means for Kiwi businesses
The findings suggest AI adoption is already becoming a productivity divider. Businesses that can move from light-touch AI use to deeper integration may be better placed to improve efficiency, reduce costs, lift customer experience, strengthen decision-making and create new products or services.
REPORTS
Reports in the series
Productivity Propelled: Accelerating technology adoption and innovation in New Zealand. March 2025.
