AUCKLAND, New Zealand – Using his unique voice to show support for the city’s burgeoning tech and innovation ecosystem, the Mayor of Auckland has announced an ambitious 100-day campaign: 100 Days of Startups. Starting today, he will wear a different branded t-shirt from a local Auckland startup every day for 100 days, culminating in the official launch of Auckland Startup Week, running from 12–16 October 2026.
The 100 Days of Startups campaign aims to spotlight the diversity, creativity, and audacity of Auckland’s startup community, celebrating the founders who are tackling global challenges from the edge of the world.
Auckland Startup Week, supported by Auckland Council’s Economic Development Office, brings together investors, founders, and industry leaders for a week of workshops, pitch competitions, and networking. This year’s theme celebrates the ‘rebellion in our DNA', encouraging participants to challenge established markets and explore new possibilities.
The Mayor says Auckland’s future is being built by the bold ideas of our local entrepreneurs.
"By wearing these shirts, I want to draw attention to the talent we have right here in our city. These are our creators and risk-takers who put their careers on the line to found companies to solve the problems of today. They’re worth celebrating, and most people don’t even know they’re here."
The campaign also demonstrates how the city is pulling the levers of innovation to build a high-productivity economy. Through the Auckland Technology and Innovation Alliance and the establishment of the New Zealand Institute for Advanced Technology, the council is actively partnering with industry, government and academia to bridge Auckland’s missing productivity premium.
“These startups are also the ones helping our economy grow,” says the Mayor. “I’m getting behind them because a wait and see approach doesn’t work. You’re going to see a laser focus from me on tech and innovation, hospitality and tourism, trade, and increased city-to-city airline connections to help lift our economy.”
"We are building an attractive, connected, and efficient global city. Our goal is simple: create the high-value jobs that keep our best and brightest from looking to Sydney or London for opportunity.”
Economic Development Office General Manager Pam Ford says Auckland is moving from a period of resilience to one of genuine economic opportunity.
"This is a commitment to our innovators. Whether it’s biotech, gaming or sustainable design, these startups are part of the engine room of our economic growth. But they need help to get visibility so – as the Mayor says – good ideas don’t die on the vine. This campaign shines a light on their hard work as we build momentum towards Auckland Startup Week."
She says the campaign is about highlighting their successes and transforming Auckland into the tech and economic hub of the South Pacific.
“We are backing start-ups—the next generation of ‘tech titans’—to ensure growth is built right here. We are positioning Auckland as a premier global test market, where our diverse population and rigorous environment serve as the ultimate R&D lab for world-class innovation."
For more information on the campaign, or to follow the daily spotlight of startups, follow the Mayor’s and Auckland Startup Week's official social media channels. Details on the upcoming Auckland Startup Week programme will be launched 5 August 2026 and can be found at www.aucklandstartupweek.com.
About Auckland Startup Week:
Auckland Startup Week (12–16 October 2026) is a premier event dedicated to connecting, challenging, and inspiring the city’s startup community. Hosted across the Auckland city centre, the week features four key tracks: Starting Out, Scaling Up, Adopt (for corporates), and Ignite (investment).
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