NZ Game Development Industry Booms: 26% growth and a bright future!
10 March 2025

New Zealand’s game development sector is thriving—growing more than 10 times faster than the global average and making serious strides towards becoming a $1 billion export industry. That’s just one of the standout findings in the inaugural NZGDA Industry Report, released today by the New Zealand Game Developers Association (NZGDA).

This first-ever annual report provides a deep dive into the state of the industry in 2024, highlighting major successes, economic contributions, and the importance of ongoing government support to maintain momentum.

The Numbers Speak for Themselves

The New Zealand game industry grew by 26% in 2024, massively outpacing the global average of just 2.1%. Blockbuster releases like Abiotic Factor and Path of Exile 2 helped drive this success, showcasing world-class talent and reinforcing the sector as a major contributor to the country’s economic recovery.

According to NZGDA Executive Director Joy Keene, the financial impact of these releases is significant:

“The tax revenue generated by just two recent game launches is estimated to cover the costs of the highly successful CODE Programme, which supports and nurtures game development startups, as well as provide funding for two years of the Game Development Sector Rebate.”

High-Paying Jobs & Creative Excellence

One of the biggest takeaways from the report is the exceptional talent in New Zealand’s game development industry. Studios across Aotearoa are creating high-value, high-paying jobs, attracting international investment, and proving that New Zealand is a global leader in digital creativity.

Looking ahead, the industry is set to continue growing, with highly anticipated titles like:

🎮 Wanderer: Fragments of Fate – Mighty Eyes (Auckland)

🎮 Into the Dead: Our Darkest Days – PikPok (Wellington)

🎮 Tales of the Shire – Wētā Workshop

These upcoming releases are a testament to the skill and innovation within the local industry.

Government Support Remains Critical

While the industry is performing exceptionally well, ongoing government support is essential to maintain momentum. NZGDA Chair Carl Leducq emphasized the importance of continued investment:

“With the right support, we’re on track to push toward $1 billion in annual export revenue in the coming years. However, continued government backing is crucial to ensure we keep growing and competing on the global stage.”

What’s Next for NZGDA?

NZGDA has big plans for 2025, including:

✅ Expanding resources for studios and developers

✅ Increasing advocacy efforts to keep game development front and center in policy discussions

✅ Strengthening international connections for publishing, investment, and collaboration

✅ Hosting bigger and better industry events, including NZGDC and Wellington Games Week

Keene summed it up perfectly:

“NZGDA plans to bring more resources, more events, and greater opportunities for our members. We are committed to supporting our studios—from emerging developers to established companies—while ensuring New Zealand remains a key player on the global stage.”

The 2024 NZGDA Industry Report is now available for viewing or download.