Following the successful launch of New Zealand’s first fintech accelerator last year, the country is strongly placed to continue its successful developments within the fintech industry and become a major player, according to Kiwibank.

Kiwibank chief executive, Paul Brock, says New Zealand is growing into a hub for successful tech-start ups and the country will continue to be in a strong position as the global fintech industry continues expanding.

The launch of Wellington-based Kiwibank Fintech Accelerator – a joint effort from a consortium which included Callaghan Innovation and Creative HQ – heralded the start of developed fintech growth in the Oceanic nation last year, which Brock is confident would continue.

“The global fintech industry is taking off, and New Zealand is ideally placed to take a leading role in the fintech revolution,” he said.

“New Zealand has shown its ability to grow true digital-era disruptors that can foot it with the world’s best, so the challenge is to build on that success so [that] others can break into global markets.”

Brock said the next step to help boost New Zealand’s fintech offering was to ramp up initiative and support for entrepreneurs and existing start-ups, as well as to provide opportunities for international exposure.

“The key is to give innovative Kiwi start-ups the support they need to take new financial products and services to the global stage and grow the New Zealand economy,” he said.

“International connectedness is key to the start-up ecosystem in NZ.”