A single ministerial focus is costing the industry in lost opportunities says NZTech. Photo: 123RF
The technology sector says it urgently needs the assistance of the government to help create high-value jobs and export growth.
"The next government must support the use of technology to transform the economy, lift the performance of New Zealand industries and create high-value jobs," NZTech chief executive Graeme Muller said.
He said the lack of a single ministerial focus was costing the industry in lost opportunities, with most technology issues managed across a number of portfolios.
"What we're doing at the moment is just things happening accidentally and it's all good luck," Muller said.
"We've got a great tech export sector sort of growth story in New Zealand, but it's happening without any sort of support and plan."
The industry group was looking for government support in six key areas, including education, inclusion, sustainability, safety, growing exports and improving productivity.
It would involve the development of a national digital skills strategy, affordable internet access, including free internet access in all public housing and increased investment in critical cyber security infrastructure and education.
Other measures would include a climate technology roadmap, and changes to genetic modification laws to encourage investment in biotechnology.
"As in past elections, NZTech continues to advocate for a Minister of Technology to be part of the next government, a move which the National Party has included in its tech policy," Muller said.
"The introduction of this level of focus should help with cross sector coordination to take advantage of tech where possible and be better prepared to manage any emerging tech risk, such as the role technology should be playing in our emissions reduction commitments."
The tech sector is New Zealand's second largest export sector with exports valued at $9.8 billion last year, and economic contribution of $20b.