This week, the New Zealand government announced a new plan to stimulate economic growth. Part of this plan includes initiatives to attract global talent and capitalise on the rising trend of digital nomadism. Digital nomads, individuals who leverage technology to work remotely from anywhere, represent a growing segment of the workforce that can contribute to local economies. The government’s scheme aims to position Aotearoa New Zealand as an attractive destination for these workers, highlighting our natural beauty, relaxed lifestyle and emerging digital infrastructure as key selling points.

While this scheme may have potential to bring in economic benefits, it highlights a glaring irony: how can we champion economic growth and attract digital nomads while ignoring the widening digital divide that hinders so many of our own people from participating in this very growth?

The ability to access affordable connectivity and gain essential digital literacy skills is no longer a luxury, it is a human right. From education and job applications to healthcare and running small businesses, digital inclusion is fundamental to participating in modern life. Yet, for many whānau, reliable internet remains unaffordable and access to devices and training is out of reach. 

This lack of connectivity and skills effectively locks out many New Zealanders from opportunities, including the potential to become digital nomads themselves. 

The irony deepens when we consider the ripple effects of digital exclusion. Communities unable to access digital tools and training are not only left out of economic opportunities but are also disproportionately affected by the societal challenges that technology could help alleviate. For instance, subsidised and integrated telehealth services like the successful Pokapū o te Taiwhenua Network project, have proven to bridge critical gaps in healthcare outcomes for our rural communities however consistently lack ongoing financial support. 

If the government is serious about fostering economic growth, we feel that closing the digital divide must be a central pillar of its strategy. As outlined in the Report into Affordable Connectivity, DECA recommends the following:

• Introduce a digital equity payment, similar to the Winter Energy Payment, with an initial focus on the 58,000 families earning less than $42,200 per year

• Fund community organisations offering digital skills programmes, devices and wrap around support, through an NGO intermediary

• Partner with local government to fund community hubs to provide last resort support to people struggling to access essential services online

• Introduce a digital inclusion index so we can measure progress.

Investing in affordable broadband infrastructure, community-driven digital literacy programmes and equitable device distribution is not just about connectivity, it is about empowering New Zealanders to contribute to and benefit from the digital future.