Chris Hipkins pledges AI and start-up support for small businesses

Tuesday 11 August 2026 · 2 outlets · 2 reports · updated Wed 12 Aug, 5:00am

In this story Christopher Luxon, Labour Party, Chris Hipkins

Labour leader Chris Hipkins visited Rotorua on Tuesday to unveil a plan for supporting small businesses during the AI revolution. He promised increased funding and assistance for start-ups to help them adapt to new technologies. The visit follows recent controversial comments made by the Prime Minister in the same city.

How they headlined it

14h

Tue 2:59pmWed 5am

1. NZ HeraldTue 11 Aug, 2:59pm

   Election 2026: Labour leader Chris Hipkins in Rotorua, unveils AI, start-up support plan for small businesses (opens in new tab)

2. NewsroomWed 12 Aug, 5:00am

   Hipkins promises small businesses a ticket to the ‘AI revolution’ (opens in new tab)