New Zealand’s advertising landscape is evolving, with artificial intelligence (AI) making a significant impact. According to the latest survey by the Television Research Agency (TRA), the AI-generated ad campaign by Skinny featuring a digitally cloned 64-year-old Liz Wright has emerged as one of the most popular advertisements among New Zealanders. The campaign secured a position in the top ten alongside well-known brands such as Tux, One NZ, KFC, and Turners.

In the survey conducted in June 2025, Kiwis expressed their enthusiasm for the innovative ad, demonstrating a clear shift towards embracing cutting-edge technology in marketing. The digitally cloned Liz Wright, selected from hundreds of entries in a nationwide search, has resonated with audiences, showcasing the creative possibilities that AI brings to advertising.

Matt Bain, Spark’s marketing and data director, highlighted the transformative power of AI in the advertising sector. He noted that AI has made digital effects more accessible, stating, “Brands like Skinny can actually do things like clone a customer and then create scenes that wouldn’t have been possible on Skinny’s budgets.” This democratization of technology allows smaller brands to compete with larger corporations by leveraging sophisticated tools previously reserved for bigger budgets.

The Skinny ad exemplifies how AI can enhance customer engagement by personalizing content and creating relatable narratives. As consumers become increasingly accustomed to personalized marketing experiences, the use of AI-generated content is likely to grow, allowing brands to connect with audiences on a more intimate level.

This trend reflects broader changes in the advertising industry, where creativity merges with technological advancements. As brands strive to capture the attention of consumers in a crowded marketplace, the integration of AI tools will continue to play a crucial role.

The success of Skinny’s AI-driven campaign signifies a turning point in how advertisements are created and perceived in New Zealand. With audiences responding positively to innovative approaches, it is clear that the future of advertising will heavily rely on the fusion of creativity and technology. As companies like Skinny pioneer this movement, the potential for AI to reshape the marketing landscape remains vast and promising.

Former Reserve Bank of New Zealand governor Adrian Orr has been appointed to the board of the Cook Islands National Superannuation Fund. This development follows Orr’s unexpected departure from the Reserve Bank in March 2023. The fund, which currently manages approximately $300 million in assets, announced Orr’s appointment in a media release, highlighting his connection to the Cook Islands through his grandfather, No’oroa George, a native of the islands.

Orr has been a strong advocate for the establishment of the superannuation fund, supporting his uncle, former Member of Parliament Norman George, during the legislative process. According to the fund’s statement, Orr provided “strategic and operational support” to the board and its executive team prior to his appointment.

In addition to his role with the superannuation fund, Orr collaborated with the fund’s chief executive, Damien Beddoes, to create the Pacific Islands Investment Forum, which engages 20 funds from 12 countries. This initiative reflects Orr’s commitment to enhancing investment opportunities within the region.

Fund chair Heinz Matysik emphasized Orr’s extensive industry experience, stating, “Adrian brings a wealth of industry knowledge and leadership that will strengthen our board. His appointment comes at a pivotal time as the fund enters its next phase of growth and development.”

Orr has not publicly addressed the circumstances surrounding his resignation from the Reserve Bank. His departure raised questions due to its unexpected nature, with the bank only confirming that his reasons were “personal.” In June, a release of documents indicated that Orr had been negotiating a Five Year Funding Agreement with bank officials and the Minister of Finance when he chose to resign. He reportedly believed that the bank required additional funding beyond what the board was prepared to authorize.

As Orr begins his new role, his experience and connections within the financial sector are expected to play a significant part in the future success of the Cook Islands National Superannuation Fund.

A video depicting an alleged drink-driver’s car stranded on the median barrier of a highway in Taranaki has gained significant attention on social media. The clip, recorded by witness Chris Cooper, captured the incident that occurred early on Saturday morning, specifically around 2:10 AM, on State Highway 3 near the Waitara River. Since being shared on Facebook, the video has amassed over one million views.

The footage shows an SUV stuck on the barrier, with the driver seemingly attempting to accelerate in a bid to free the vehicle. Cooper, who was driving by at the time, described the scene as both unusual and concerning. The moment was dramatic, highlighting the potential dangers of impaired driving.

Following the incident, local authorities were alerted to the scene. Officers from the Taranaki Police responded to reports of a vehicle on the barrier, which is located between Mamaku and Main North roads. Fortunately, no injuries were reported as a result of the crash.

As a consequence of the incident, a 28-year-old man has been summonsed to appear in the New Plymouth District Court on July 23, 2024. He faces a charge of drink-driving, underscoring the ongoing issue of impaired driving on New Zealand roads.

The viral nature of the video has sparked discussions about road safety and the consequences of driving under the influence. As more viewers engage with the clip, it serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with alcohol consumption and vehicle operation.

The Blues rugby team is contemplating a shift from their traditional home at Eden Park to Mt Smart Stadium in an effort to address declining attendance figures for their Super Rugby matches. Amid concerns about dwindling fan engagement, the team is consulting with supporters to gauge whether the proposed move would influence their likelihood of attending games.

While the consultation seeks fan input, there is skepticism regarding whether relocating to Mt Smart will genuinely improve attendance. Critics argue that the logistical challenges remain largely unchanged. Public transport access to Mt Smart is comparable to that of Eden Park, and driving still necessitates finding parking, which can be a hassle. Fans will continue to face elements such as weather conditions while watching from the stands, and they will still incur costs for food and beverages at the venue.

One potential advantage of Mt Smart is its direct access off the motorway, which may simplify travel for some fans. Additionally, the presence of teams like the Auckland FC and the Warriors at Mt Smart could help establish a habitual fan base. However, many argue that these factors alone are insufficient to substantively increase attendance.

Attendance for Super Rugby matches has been lackluster nationwide, with only 6,000 fans attending games featuring Moana Pasifika and around 11,000 for the Blues, which is notably low given the 50,000 capacity of Eden Park. A smaller venue like Mt Smart, which accommodates 25,000 spectators, might mask the empty seats but does not address the underlying issue of fan engagement.

Addressing Fan Engagement Challenges

The challenge facing the Blues extends beyond venue choice. Observers believe that the root problem lies in the perceived lack of excitement surrounding Super Rugby itself. To reverse the trend of dwindling attendance, the organization must innovate and actively entice families and younger fans to attend games. Initiatives like Eden Park’s kids’ zone, which features attractions such as bouncy castles, represent the kind of thinking needed to enhance the game-day experience.

The sentiment is clear: the product of Super Rugby must evolve to capture the interest of the public. Without significant changes to make the sport more engaging, it may be inevitable that crowds will remain sparse, regardless of the stadium used. In light of this, while a move to Mt Smart may provide some logistical benefits, it might ultimately symbolize a retreat from the historical significance of Eden Park and an acceptance of a new norm in attendance figures.

The Blues face a critical crossroads. They can either adapt their approach to revive interest in Super Rugby or risk resigning themselves to an era of empty seats and lackluster crowds. It remains to be seen whether the team will take bold steps to reignite excitement around the sport, which is essential for drawing fans back to the stands, regardless of the venue.