Investors + Publishers
Discover NZ’s Next Global Hit
New Zealand's game development sector has just surpassed $1 billion in annual revenue, growing 32% in a single year. Behind that number is a community of world-class studios building games that are ready for the world stage.
NZGDC 2026 is your direct line to them.
We have designed two exclusive events for investors, publishers, and studio scouts - a curated, high-signal experience that respects your time and connects you with the projects that matter most.
Part 1: VIP International Meet and Greet
Thursday 1 October 2026
Kiwi Game Zone, NZICC, Auckland
Invite only
Before the doors open to the public, a select group of international delegates, investors, publishers, NZGDA studio managers, board members, and key industry figures will gather inside the Kiwi Game Zone for an exclusive evening of introductions and discovery.
With over 100 New Zealand-developed games on show and none of the conference crowds, you will have the space to play, explore, and speak directly with developers in a genuinely intimate setting. Whether you are scouting your next title or looking to understand where the industry is heading, this is the room to be in.
Part 2: Curated Live Pitch Event
Friday 2 October 2026
NZICC Auckland
Supported by CODE
We know your time is valuable. That is why our live pitch event is built around your priorities, not ours.
Here’s how it works
Before the event, registered investors and publishers receive a curated digital portfolio of pitch decks from investment-ready New Zealand studios. You review the decks in your own time and vote for the projects that interest you most. The top six studios ranked by investor and publisher votes take the stage for a live 10-minute pitch, followed by Q&A.
This model guarantees a focused, high-quality event where every studio on stage has already earned your attention. And if a game you love does not make the final six, we will personally facilitate an introduction so nothing falls through the cracks.
Who should get involved
For investors and publishers: Register your interest to receive the digital pitch deck portfolio ahead of the event, participate in the voting process, and secure your invitation to both the VIP Meet and Greet and the Live Pitch Event.
For studios: If you are seeking investment or publisher interest and want to put your studio in front of a curated room of international decision-makers, we want to hear from you. Submit your interest in participating as a pitching studio and we will be in touch with everything you need to know.