New Zealand’s small businesses power the economy, but are they losing ambition?
New data on growth, productivity, and tech adoption, reveals what it means for the country’s economic future, from global rankings to the real challenges facing Kiwi business owners.
Links to audio clips used here
Halter's unicorn raise & the rise of farm tech
06/04/2026 | 17 mins.
A New Zealand startup is reshaping the future of farming. Halter’s $3.4B rise, global expansion, and the future of farming-one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing agtech companies reshaping agriculture with technology, AI, and data-driven innovation.
Links to audio clips used here
Supercritical Energy – Shane Jones & Dr Isabelle Chambefort
30/03/2026 | 19 mins.
Energy security is back in focus as global conflict drives fuel volatility and power prices higher. Could the answer lie beneath our feet? In this episode, we explore New Zealand’s geothermal potential — from doubling output by 2040 to the high-risk push into supercritical energy that could transform the grid. With insights from Energy Minister Shane Jones and leading scientists, we examine whether geothermal could deliver reliable, affordable, and sustainable power for the future.
Links to audio clips used here
Jet Fuel Crisis: Headache for Air NZ
23/03/2026 | 20 mins.
In this episode of The NBR Podcast with Simon Shepherd, we investigate how surging jet fuel prices are clipping Air NZ's wings to cut services and raise fares; and what that means for Kiwi travellers.
We look at the real cost of NZ's jet fuel dependency, why supply shocks hit us harder than most, and the Marsden Point project aiming to change that, with a sustainable aviation fuel twist that could reshape New Zealand's energy future.
Links to audio clips used here.
Is AI the future of banking?
16/03/2026 | 17 mins.
Is banking about to have its Netflix moment? In this episode of The NBR Podcast with Simon Shepherd: We take a dive into the AI revolution focusing on the global banking industry. We're talking AI agents that could one day manage financials, budgeting, investing, lending decisions... all without a human in the loop.
Each episode explores issues impacting business & the New Zealand economy. Listen to in-depth interviews with NZ CEOs.
NBR (National Business Review) publishes NZ's leading business and finance podcasts, artificial intelligence, covering market shifts, investment, economics, and corporate leadership.
Episodes feature analysis of New Zealand companies, global markets, government policy, and entrepreneurship.
The NBR Podcast with Simon Shepherd: in-depth interviews with business leaders.
Learn more on NBR.co.nz
New Zealand