Kiwis Embrace AI-Generated Skinny Ad in New Zealand’s Top Ads

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.