Software accounting firm Xero has been crowned New Zealand's hi-tech company of the year for the second time in three years.
Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak was on the panel of judges that selected Xero for the award, which was presented last night at a ceremony in Wellington.
This year, the New Zealand Hi-Tech Awards received more than 150 entries, a record number, which the organisers said proved the technology sector was in good health.
Rod Drury's company Xero impressed the judges by creating a new version of its accounting software every week.
Another big winner was the company Umajin, which makes app-design software.
It enables non-technical people to create apps for smartphones and tablets in a few days.
Umajin took home prizes for best software product and best technology solution.