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Techday NZ
12-08-2025
- Business
- Techday NZ
If New Zealand wants productivity gains, it must close its AI divide
Much like steam once powered factories, artificial intelligence (AI) is now fuelling the next leap in human productivity. The Government has signalled its intention to harness technology and AI to boost productivity across both the public and private sectors. Yet, the data tells a more sobering story. According to Stats NZ, labour productivity in New Zealand lags behind the OECD average - shrinking by 0.9% in the year to March 2024, while the OECD average rose 1.2%. We are falling behind at a time when the global economy is accelerating. New Zealand's productivity needs urgent intervention and AI is a critical part of the solution. Research from Accenture shows that generative AI can drive efficiency gains of up to 30% and reduce costs by 20%. Companies that successfully embed generative AI into their operations while investing in data, technology, and talent can expect significant returns in top-line productivity. But there's a catch: New Zealand businesses aren't ready. Digital maturity is a key indicator of AI readiness, and our latest research shows 40% of companies in Australia and New Zealand sit in the bottom quarter globally. There are promising signs. Government and local government initiatives such as the Auckland Technology Alliance, AI Activator, Elevate, and GovGPT demonstrate a growing commitment to responsible AI integration, aligned with OECD principles. Finance Minister Nicola Willis announced increased funding for tech startups through the Elevate venture fund. If these investments are directed toward high-potential companies, they could trigger a steep improvement in productivity. Minister for Technology Judith Collins recently stated the need to increase awareness and adoption of AI to ensure we keep pace globally. "It is crucial businesses are supported to improve their awareness and uptake of AI, so they can capitalise on the benefits," she said. She's right. But to get there, we need to build strong digital foundations first. Build the digital core AI doesn't operate in a vacuum. It depends on a modern digital backbone - cloud infrastructure, clean and accessible data, and agile operating models. This is what we call the digital core. At Accenture, we advocate for a 360-degree approach: modernising systems, reducing technology debt, upskilling employees, ensuring inclusivity and diversity, and prioritising sustainability. There is no one-size-fits-all model, but these are non-negotiables. The payoff is real. When we implemented generative AI across our sales teams, we saw a 35% lift in productivity. Across our client base, "reinvention-ready" companies, those that have invested in becoming digitally mature, are seeing productivity improvements up to 240% greater than their peers. AI opens global doors AI and digital tools also allow Kiwi businesses to scale internationally without the burden of physical expansion. According to Accenture's Emerging Market Consumer Report, one billion new consumers will enter the global market by 2035 in regions like India, Nigeria, and Indonesia. Yet 40% of global consumer brands are still absent from these markets. There is real potential for companies and innovative products to make a bigger impact on the global stage, by selectively expanding into markets that have rich potential, and digitally taking New Zealand products and services to the consumers in those markets, we can dramatically increase our output internationally. Gen AI will reshape every business Through its ability to collect, analyse and interpret vast amounts of data, applied Artificial Intelligence is already helping compress the timeframes and resources previously needed to make strategic business decisions. With the continued innovation in the technology and AI sector every role in every business has the potential to be reinvented. Applied AI is already compressing decision-making timelines and transforming operations. Every role in every industry is being reshaped. Yet New Zealand is significantly lagging in Digital Maturity according to a recent xxx report. While this has shifted over recent years with increased funding in the technology sector, and the continued release of new AI tools, too many companies are still reliant on manual, paper-based systems that reduce productivity and hinder innovation. To compete, Cut the tech debt Outdated IT systems are a major barrier to progress, draining capital and delaying transformation. Building a strong, cloud-based digital core, powered by AI and quality data, is essential to unlocking productivity. At Accenture NZ, operating 85% in the cloud has significantly boosted our own productivity by reducing costs and complexity. Build a workforce that can lead with tech Technology is only half the equation. People are the other half. Every dollar spent on digital tools should be matched by investment in skills and capability. According to a joint study between Microsoft and Accenture, employees could save nearly an hour every day or 275 hours a year through generative AI. This is projected to add $76 billion to New Zealand's GDP by 2038. 14% of tasks could be automated and 26% of tasks gen AI could act as a co-pilot. That's not about replacing jobs it's about augmenting them. AI gives employees superpowers: enabling them to focus on strategic, higher-value work. That matters in a country where 1 in 10 workers feel overqualified for their role. To stay competitive, we must invest in widespread digital upskilling - today, not tomorrow. Robin Sharma once said, "Don't confuse activity with productivity. Many people are simply busy being busy." New Zealand can't afford to be busy being busy. To reverse our productivity slide, we must build the foundations for AI, accelerate digital maturity, and empower our people to lead in a tech-driven world. The window of opportunity is open. We must step through it.
Mint
08-08-2025
- Automotive
- Mint
Honda Great India Fest: City, Elevate and Amaze get benefits up to ₹1.22 lakh
Honda Cars India has introduced special festive-season promotions under its 'Great India Fest,' giving customers a chance to avail benefits worth up to ₹ 1.22 lakh on some of its most popular models, including the Amaze, City, City Hybrid and Elevate. These offers typically bundle together loyalty rewards, exchange bonuses, corporate discounts, assured buyback options, and a complimentary extended warranty covering seven years. Additionally, Honda is offering an assured ₹ 10,000 voucher to every customer who takes a test drive. Below is a detailed look at the deals available during August for each model. It's worth noting that these discounts are dependent on dealership participation, stock availability, and other conditions set by the manufacturer. Interested buyers should contact their nearest Honda outlet to confirm the most accurate and updated offer details. The Honda City is being offered with combined benefits of up to ₹ 1,07,300 across all trims. The City e:HEV hybrid version, on the other hand, comes with total savings of ₹ 96,000, applicable across its full variant range. In the Indian market, the City competes with the Hyundai Verna, Skoda Slavia, and Volkswagen Virtus. For the Honda Elevate, customers can get discounts of up to ₹ 1.22 lakh, with the highest perks available on the top-end ZX trim. Powered by a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine, the Elevate is one of Honda's key SUVs in India. It takes on rivals such as the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, and MG Astor. The recently launched new-generation Honda Amaze does not receive direct cash discounts but is offered with corporate schemes and loyalty benefits for existing Honda customers.
Hindustan Times
08-08-2025
- Automotive
- Hindustan Times
Honda launches festive ‘Great India Fest' with benefits up to ₹1.22 Lakh
Honda Cars India has kicked off the festive season with its 'Great India Fest', rolling out a range of special offers on popular models like the Amaze, City, and Elevate. Customers can look forward to benefits worth up to ₹1.22 lakh, which may include loyalty bonuses, exchange incentives, corporate discounts, guaranteed buyback programs, and a complimentary seven-year extended warranty. Personalised Offers on Honda City Hybrid Check Offers Honda Cars India is offering benefits in August on the City, Elevate and the Amaze, along with the City eHEV. Adding to the excitement, Honda is also rewarding every test drive with a ₹10,000 voucher, making it an inviting time for prospective buyers to visit showrooms. The offers, however, depend on factors like stock availability and dealer participation, so checking with local dealerships for exact details is advised. Deals on Honda City and City e:HEV The Honda City is available with total benefits of up to ₹1,07,300 across all variants. For those eyeing the City e:HEV hybrid, the savings go up to ₹96,000. Both versions continue to compete with the likes of the Hyundai Verna, Skoda Slavia, and Volkswagen Virtus in the midsize sedan segment. Offers on Honda Elevate The Elevate SUV gets the most generous package, with discounts reaching ₹1.22 lakh, especially on the top-end ZX variant. Powered by a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine, the Elevate takes on segment leaders like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, and MG Astor. (Also read: Honda Civic facelift breaks cover, dons subtle updates) Savings on Amaze The newly launched third-generation Amaze doesn't come with direct cash discounts but does offer corporate benefits and loyalty rewards for current Honda owners. Meanwhile, the second-generation Amaze gets benefits of up to ₹77,200. Honda is also promoting easy finance plans, with EMIs starting at ₹999 per lakh, making ownership more accessible. In the compact sedan space, the Amaze continues to rival the Maruti Suzuki Dzire.
Mint
08-08-2025
- Automotive
- Mint
Honda Great India Fest: City, Elevate and Amaze get benefits up to ₹1.22 lakh
Honda Cars India has introduced special festive-season promotions under its 'Great India Fest,' giving customers a chance to avail benefits worth up to ₹ 1.22 lakh on some of its most popular models, including the Amaze, City, City Hybrid and Elevate. These offers typically bundle together loyalty rewards, exchange bonuses, corporate discounts, assured buyback options, and a complimentary extended warranty covering seven years. Additionally, Honda is offering an assured ₹ 10,000 voucher to every customer who takes a test drive. Below is a detailed look at the deals available during August for each model. It's worth noting that these discounts are dependent on dealership participation, stock availability, and other conditions set by the manufacturer. Interested buyers should contact their nearest Honda outlet to confirm the most accurate and updated offer details. The Honda City is being offered with combined benefits of up to ₹ 1,07,300 across all trims. The City e:HEV hybrid version, on the other hand, comes with total savings of ₹ 96,000, applicable across its full variant range. In the Indian market, the City competes with the Hyundai Verna, Skoda Slavia, and Volkswagen Virtus. For the Honda Elevate, customers can get discounts of up to ₹ 1.22 lakh, with the highest perks available on the top-end ZX trim. Powered by a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine, the Elevate is one of Honda's key SUVs in India. It takes on rivals such as the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, and MG Astor. The recently launched new-generation Honda Amaze does not receive direct cash discounts but is offered with corporate schemes and loyalty benefits for existing Honda customers. Meanwhile, the second-generation Amaze is available with benefits amounting to ₹ 77,200. These offers, however, are not applicable to the newly introduced third-generation model. Honda is also advertising EMI plans starting from ₹ 999 per lakh for this compact sedan, which competes against the Maruti Suzuki Dzire in the sub-4-metre segment.
Hindustan Times
07-08-2025
- Automotive
- Hindustan Times
Honda Cars India announces benefits up to ₹1.22 lakh on City, Elevate and Amaze models
Honda Cars India has rolled out attractive festive deals under its "Great India Fest," offering benefits of up to ₹1.22 lakh on several of its key models, including the Amaze, City, and Elevate. These promotional packages typically include loyalty bonuses, exchange offers, corporate benefits, guaranteed buyback schemes, and a complimentary extended warranty valid for seven years. On top of this, Honda is also providing a guaranteed ₹10,000 voucher for every customer who takes a test drive. Here's a breakdown of the available offers during August for each model. Please be aware that these discounts and offers are subject to stock levels, dealership participation, and other conditions set by Honda. Prospective buyers are encouraged to get in touch with their nearest Honda dealership for the most accurate and updated information regarding these deals. Also check these Cars Find more Cars Honda City 1498 cc 1498 cc Petrol Petrol ₹ 12.38 Lakhs Compare View Offers Honda Elevate 1498 cc 1498 cc Petrol Petrol ₹ 11.91 Lakhs Compare View Offers Honda Amaze 1199 cc 1199 cc Petrol Petrol ₹ 8.10 Lakhs Compare View Offers Honda City Hybrid 1498 cc 1498 cc Multiple Multiple ₹ 20.85 Lakhs Compare View Offers Hyundai Verna 1497 cc 1497 cc Petrol Petrol ₹ 11.07 Lakhs Compare View Offers Volkswagen Virtus 1498 cc 1498 cc Petrol Petrol ₹ 11.56 Lakhs Compare View Offers August deals on Honda City and City e:HEV Hybrid Buyers of the Honda City can take advantage of benefits going up to ₹1,07,300 across all variants. Meanwhile, the City e:HEV hybrid variant is available with total savings of ₹96,000. These deals are valid for the entire lineup of both models. In India, the Honda City faces competition from cars such as the Hyundai Verna, Skoda Slavia, and Volkswagen Virtus. August offers on Honda Elevate Honda is extending discounts of up to ₹1.22 lakh on the Elevate, with the top-spec ZX variant receiving the highest benefits. The Elevate SUV, which is powered by a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine, stands as one of the brand's leading products in India. It rivals popular models such as the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, and MG Astor. August discounts on New Amaze and Second-Gen Amaze While the latest iteration of the Honda Amaze does not feature any direct cash discounts, it is being offered with corporate benefits and exclusive loyalty bonuses for existing Honda owners. In contrast, the second-generation Amaze is available with benefits up to ₹77,200. It's important to note that these promotional offers do not apply to the recently introduced third-generation Amaze. Honda is also promoting EMI options that begin at ₹999 per lakh for this sub-4-metre sedan. The Amaze competes in the segment alongside the Maruti Suzuki Dzire. Check out Upcoming Cars in India 2025, Best SUVs in India. First Published Date:
