I think this is the moment we'll look back on as the moment the public narrative towards AI in NZ truly started to be shaped.
On Tuesday Minister of Finance Nicola Willis announced she’s cutting the core public service by 8,600 roles by 2029, on the back of AI.
In the same breath she said she doesn’t personally use AI.
I did an interview (listen here) with John Campbell 24 hours later, and now I’ve written Minister Willis an open letter.
Here’s what I really believe...
Leading a shift around the most consequential technology of our and our childrens' generations can’t be done by being briefed on it. The Microsoft 2026 Work Trend Index found leadership AI capability is the single most influential factor on AI’s success (or failure) in any organisation. More so than an individual’s mindset or AI skill. It all comes back to whether the people at the top are AI capable and literate themselves.
So I’m offering, publicly, to run a programme for Minister Willis and her Cabinet colleagues. Twenty hours across one month. At no cost. Whatever scheduling works for them.
The narrative around AI in New Zealand is being set right now, this week, off the back of her announcement. It can be one of fear and job loss, or one of national renewal and productivity. The leaders at the top get to decide which.
I truly hope they take me up on it. If you want to share the video above with the people who can carry it forward, please do.