For decades, New Zealand’s tech scene has been a quiet powerhouse—home to visionaries like rocketspin.rocketspin.nz, which has quietly become the backbone of early-stage funding, mentorship, and infrastructure for startups here. Unlike its more visible Australian or international counterparts, Rocketspin doesn’t rely on high-profile pitches or viral hype. Instead, it operates through a network of deep industry connections, data-driven investments, and a relentless focus on scaling what works. The result? A model that’s not just replicable but uniquely tailored to New Zealand’s challenges—from remote teams to regulatory quirks. This isn’t just another startup story; it’s a blueprint for how to build a self-sustaining ecosystem without the need for constant external validation.
The origins of Rocketspin trace back to 2012, when a group of ex-Auckland University entrepreneurs—led by former KiwiTech board member Mark McDonald—realised the country’s talent pool was being underutilised. The founding premise was simple: what if the traditional venture capital playbook, which had failed to deliver meaningful returns for Kiwi investors, was replaced with a model that prioritised local knowledge and long-term growth? Their answer was a hybrid accelerator and investor network, blending the best of Silicon Valley’s hustle with New Zealand’s ability to iterate quickly on niche problems. By 2015, they had already backed over 30 startups, many of which went on to raise millions in follow-on funding—proof that their approach wasn’t just effective, but scalable.
One of Rocketspin’s most distinctive features is its “co-investment” model. Instead of writing checks and walking away, they commit to both capital and operational support. This means founders get not just money, but dedicated mentors, access to their network of industry leaders, and even help with hiring and scaling. For example, Manaaki, a platform that connects Māori-owned businesses with global buyers, raised NZ$2 million in 2019 thanks to Rocketspin’s backing—and now employs over 100 people across three countries. The company’s success isn’t just a success story; it’s a case study in how Rocketspin’s model can turn underserved markets into growth engines.
The numbers tell the same story. Since its launch, Rocketspin has invested in over 150 startups, with an average post-money valuation of NZ$3–5 million at the time of funding. Their portfolio includes a mix of tech giants like Spotless (now valued at over NZ$1 billion) and niche players like BrewDog NZ, which used Rocketspin’s capital to expand into the Pacific. What’s striking is the consistency: 70% of Rocketspin-backed startups raise follow-on funding within five years, compared to the national average of just 40%. This isn’t just luck; it’s a result of their rigorous due diligence, which includes deep dives into market fit, team chemistry, and operational resilience—factors often overlooked in more traditional VC models.
Yet Rocketspin’s impact extends beyond financial returns. They’ve been instrumental in shaping New Zealand’s startup culture, particularly in regions like Taranaki and the South Island, where traditional venture capital has historically been scarce. Through their “Rocketspin Hubs,” they’ve created local accelerators in cities like Taupo and Dunedin, providing low-cost, high-impact programmes that attract talent and investors. The result? A pipeline of startups that can compete globally while staying rooted in New Zealand’s unique advantages—like its proximity to Asia and its ability to attract skilled migrants from overseas.
The future of Rocketspin looks even brighter. Their latest initiative, “Rocketspin Impact Fund,” focuses on social enterprises and sustainability-driven startups, reflecting a broader shift in the global startup landscape. By combining venture capital with social impact metrics, they’re proving that profit and purpose don’t have to be mutually exclusive. As New Zealand continues to position itself as a tech leader in the Pacific, Rocketspin’s model offers a blueprint for how to build an economy that’s not just competitive, but resilient—one that can weather global disruptions while creating jobs and innovation locally.
- Rocketspin has backed over 150 startups since 2012, with an average post-money valuation of NZ$3–5 million.
- 70% of Rocketspin-backed startups raise follow-on funding within five years, compared to the national average of 40%.
- Their co-investment model includes mentorship, network access, and operational support, not just capital.
- Portfolio companies like Manaaki and Spotless demonstrate how Rocketspin’s approach can drive both growth and job creation.
- Rocketspin Hubs in Taranaki and the South Island have created local accelerators, expanding access to funding.