In this episode, Technology Partners Tom Maasland and Kate Cruickshank discuss the technology policy issues shaping the 2026 Election and the potential implications for businesses and the wider technology sector.
[01:49] Kate and Tom discuss how technology policy has moved into the mainstream this election, with AI governance and data centre infrastructure emerging as key election issues.
[03:00] They consider the different approaches political parties are proposing to AI regulation. They note that while there is broad consensus on AI's economic potential, their discussion highlights the contrasting policy views, ranging from National's light-touch regulatory approach to Labour's proposed AI governance framework and the Greens' regulation-first model.
[08:07] Tom and Kate discuss how political parties are positioning technology as a key driver of economic growth, including policies aimed at attracting investment, fostering innovation, reducing regulatory barriers, supporting fintech, increasing R&D investment, and strengthening New Zealand's competitiveness in the global digital economy.
[10:42] Kate highlights how the rapid growth of AI is increasing attention on data centres, energy demand, renewable generation and the cost of supporting digital infrastructure.
[13:14] They also consider the growing regulatory focus on technology-specific legislation such as the Deepfake Digital Harm and Exploitation Bill and the Online (Minimum Age and Child Safety Risk Assessment) Safety Bill.
[15:54] Tom emphasises why technology policy, AI governance, and cybersecurity must remain high priorities for executive teams regardless of the election outcome. They highlight the importance of strong governance, risk management, and staying informed as policy and regulatory developments continue to evolve after election day.
Information in this episode is current as at the date of recording, Friday 23 October 2026.
Please contact Tom Maasland, Kate Cruickshank or our Technology team if you need legal advice and guidance on any of the topics discussed in the episode.
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Additional resources
We're proud to again support Policy.nz – a free, independent, non-partisan platform that helps voters compare parties and policies in one place. The site has the latest election information, making it easier to cut through the noise and understand where parties stand on the issues that matter most.
2026 Building the Future - National
Electrify NZ 2.0 Policy - National
AI in New Zealand’s Interests - NZ Labour
Banking for Everyone - NZ Labour
Unlocking New Zealand's Digital Economy – ACT NZ
Safe, sovereign AI policy – Greens
Breatkthrough Economy Policy - Opportunity
Digital Future Policy - Opportunity
New Zealand's AI Strategy: Investing with confidence | Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment
Deepfake Digital Harm and Exploitation Bill | New Zealand Legislation
Online Safety (Minimum Age and Child Safety Risk Assessment) Bill | New Zealand Legislation
Labour unveils AI Action Plan: What an incoming Labour Government would do on AI
What the Online Safety Bill means for digital platforms operating in New Zealand
