New Zealand's indie game development scene is hotter than ever, with the country producing some of the most innovative and engaging games in the industry. The country's government-funded Centre of Digital Excellence, Code, has been instrumental in supporting local developers and helping them turn their ideas into successful app startups.
At Pax Australia, a major gaming conference and exhibition that takes place every October, attendees were treated to a showcase of indie video games and tabletop titles, many of which hailed from New Zealand. The country's presence was particularly notable this year, with 18 Kiwi developers demoing their forthcoming games at the Code booth. Among the standout titles were Headlice, a comedic game where players control a parasitic headcrab monster that can latch on to people's brains and puppet them; How Was Your Day?, a cozy time-loop game set in New Zealand that warmed hearts with its story about a young girl searching for her missing dog; and Killing Things With Your Friends, a co-operative multiplayer action game about surviving bizarre medical trials.
New Zealand's indie game development scene has been gaining momentum over the past few years, with total revenue for local game developer studios rising steadily each year since 2018. According to a survey from the New Zealand Game Developers Association (NZGDA), between 2024 and 2026, total revenue shot up 38% to NZ$759m (A$657m). This figure is almost double the A$339.1m generated in Australia in 2024.
One of the key factors behind New Zealand's indie game development success is Code, which offers a range of programs and services designed to support local developers. These include grants, mentorships, and specialized skill workshops that help developers build their skills and compete internationally. Code also offers multiple streams of funding, from travel and initial kickstart funds through to large-scale grants – up to $250,000 – for teams that are ready to expand.
The aim of Code is to wean developers off its support and make them self-reliant. According to Vee Pendergrast, development manager at Code, "In this day and age, publishers and investors only want to engage with you when you have already got some degree of validation." By offering a range of programs and services, Code helps developers build their skills and gain the recognition they need to attract investors and partners.
New Zealand's indie game development scene is characterized by its collaborative nature. Developers work together to share ideas, experiences, and contacts, and there is a real sense of community. As Jevon Wright, developer of Adaptory, notes, "We all know each other, and we're all here to support each other." This collaborative approach has helped New Zealand developers build a reputation for creating innovative and engaging games that stand out in a crowded market.
With 61 upcoming New Zealand games listed on Steam, the country's indie game development scene is certainly one to watch. Whether you're looking for quirky Kiwi-oriented titles or more serious, strategic games, there are plenty of app startup ideas emerging from New Zealand's vibrant gaming community.