Microsoft to open new data center region in New Zealand

Microsoft today announced its plans to build its first data centre region in New Zealand which will accelerate digital transformation opportunities across the country. The construction of a new data centre will provide New Zealand customers local access to Microsoft 365, Power Platform, Dynamics 365, and Microsoft Azure. In addition, the Redmond giant also aims to launch educational skilling programs to train the people of New Zealand.

With this announcement, the company reiterated its commitment towards privacy, noting that customer data remains stored locally in New Zealand. The press release also mentions that Microsoft has been collaborating with The Collaborative Studio and Massey University to launch an educational program called i4 Accelerator. Notably, the program offers targeted workplace-based training to address the shortage of skills in primary industries including technology and manufacturing in the region.

“Technology is driving transformation in agrifood and fibre at an incredible speed, so it’s vital we move quickly to ensure the education system meets the requirements of what businesses need to be innovative. It’s especially important for the agrifood and fibre sector to remain competitive for years to come and capitalise on brighter thinking and bigger ideas,” said Anne Taylor, Microsoft education lead today.

It is noteworthy that, Microsoft seeks approval from the Overseas Investment Office to proceed with this plan. However, if the OIO gives the green light, it would be a notable addition to Microsoft’s existing 54 Azure regions across the globe. In case you missed, Microsoft has also announced a $1 billion digital transformation plan for Poland yesterday which includes the contribution of a new data centre in the country.