PANZ calls for increased government support and the strategic development of New Zealand’s local education publishing sector to improve literacy and curriculum outcomes
Tēnā koe
The Publishers Association of New Zealand (PANZ) / Te Rau o Tākupu represents over 80 publishers across trade, education, academic, and specialist sectors. Our education publishing members are more than 20 strong, see brief snapshot appended for a sample of our breadth and depth. We develop high-quality, curriculum-aligned resources for Aotearoa’s learners, supporting literacy, curriculum subjects, cultural identity, and equitable access to knowledge across English and Māori-medium settings.
2024 Data highlights – NZ Publishing is a local asset with global reach
- $282m – Total value of NZ’s publishing industry in 2024
- $34m – Revenue from education publishing, 83% from locally developed content
- 36% – Education publishing export share (Australia, Asia, US)
- 325,000 – Te reo Māori books sold (1.8% of total unit sales)
…and yet as a country we grapple with
- 1 in 4 New Zealand adults (25%) having low literacy skills
- less than half of Year 8 students meeting expected reading levels
- considerable disparities in school library provision across Aotearoa
There is considerable opportunity for the NZ publishing industry to be more fully utilised, supported and sought after for the innovation and partnership we offer. We seek to be engaged in the ‘Going for growth’ strategy, to be a part of unlocking New Zealand’s potential.
The support we’re asking for
- Develop a national education publishing strategy
Alongside the 20+ education publishing members of PANZ, the Ministry of Education is itself the largest publisher in the country. Yet there is no overarching strategy that is visible to NZ publishers to guide this significant public investment. A coherent, forward-looking publishing strategy would ensure long-term investment in local content, capability, and infrastructure. It would also support curriculum implementation and embed equity by ensuring Aotearoa-specific and te ao Māori content reaches all learners.
- Ensure publisher representation on education panels
To ensure resources are fit-for-purpose, local publishers must be at the table on panels shaping curriculum, AI in education, copyright frameworks, and Māori Medium policy. Publishers bring expertise in pedagogy, production, and intellectual property. This is critical to evidence-based and forward-looking decision-making.
- Commit to fair, open procurement processes
Recent closed tenders have favoured offshore providers, undermining much of the local sector and bypassing fair competition with the majority of a $30m investment going offshore. Open, well-planned procurement allows NZ publishers to deliver high-quality, culturally relevant content without the pressure of crisis-driven timelines. We seek greater transparency and planning that recognises the time required for quality publishing. NZ publishers want to be part of Going for Growth, unlocking New Zealand’s potential.
- Strengthen cross-government engagement with PANZ
PANZ should be routinely engaged across government on decisions involving education, content creation, publishing, IP, and export of education resources. Whether it’s curriculum design, the ethical use of AI in learning, copyright reform, or the treatment of local authors and creators, our sector brings practical expertise and systems knowledge. Consistent input helps ensure decisions are realistic, inclusive, and future-ready.
- Invest in a long-term pipeline of work for NZ publishers
Sporadic projects and short lead times limit what local publishers can sustainably deliver. A long-term, curriculum-aligned pipeline would enable investment in talent, innovation, and content development. With change ahead such as the proposed changes to NCEA, and further curriculum resources the opportunity to engage is now.
PANZ is passionate about inspiring a nation of readers, lifting literacy, and supporting every child’s right to a relevant, engaging education. We welcome the opportunity to meet and discuss these proposals in more detail. Together, we can strengthen education outcomes and ensure New Zealand learners benefit from high-quality, locally developed resources.
Eboni Waitere
President
Publishers Association of New Zealand, Te Rau ō Takupu
