New Zealand’s video game development industry is continuing its rapid rise, with new figures showing strong growth in revenue, employment and international success as the sector cements its place as one of the country’s fastest-growing creative export industries.
New data released under the Game Development Sector Rebate (GDSR) highlights an industry that is expanding both in economic value and global reach, with more studios creating high-skilled jobs while developing games enjoyed by players around the world.
The GDSR, introduced in 2023 and administered by NZ On Air with policy oversight from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, provides eligible studios with a 20 percent rebate on qualifying development costs, helping businesses invest in staff, technology and long-term growth.
The latest data shows the scheme is helping studios expand their workforce, retain talented developers in Aotearoa and strengthen New Zealand’s reputation as a competitive destination for digital creativity. More companies are now meeting the eligibility thresholds, reflecting a sector that continues to mature and scale.
Industry leaders say the growth is particularly significant because game development is a high-value export industry. Most New Zealand-made games are sold internationally, bringing overseas revenue into the country while supporting highly skilled jobs in programming, design, animation, music, storytelling and digital technology.
The sector also creates opportunities for Māori and Pasifika developers, artists and storytellers to share unique perspectives with global audiences through interactive digital experiences. As demand grows for authentic indigenous storytelling across film, television and gaming, the industry offers another avenue for Māori creativity to reach international markets.
Preliminary industry data suggests New Zealand’s games sector is continuing its upward trajectory, with revenue significantly higher than it was before the rebate scheme was introduced. The industry is also attracting greater investment while encouraging studios to remain based in New Zealand rather than relocating overseas.
The Government says supporting the games industry is about more than entertainment. It is part of a broader strategy to grow New Zealand’s digital economy, encourage innovation and create high-paying technology jobs that contribute to long-term economic growth.
With dozens of studios now benefiting from the rebate programme and more original New Zealand-developed titles reaching global audiences, the country’s gaming industry is increasingly being recognised as an important contributor to exports and the wider creative economy.
As digital industries continue to expand worldwide, New Zealand’s game developers appear well positioned to compete internationally, creating new opportunities for innovation, employment and creative excellence while showcasing Aotearoa’s talent on the global stage.
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