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Incredible Software
AI expertise hurtling across the world
A business devoted to speedy technology developments has been just as quick to spread its influence.
Incredible AI builds internal software that replaces time-consuming processes based on out dated systems.
‘‘We design and ship custom apps fast — usually in weeks, not months,’’ co-chief executive Stephen Johnson says.
Since being established just last year, the company already has clients around the world — in the United States, Britain, Canada, Europe, South Africa, and Australia.
It has also helped more than 200 business leaders across New Zealand understand how AI can work for them. It has run packed-out workshops for Business South and Westpac and has been described in the NZ Herald as an AI trailblazer.
‘‘In the past year, we’ve delivered AI tools that are already transforming day-to-day work,’’ Stephen says.
‘‘We’ve grown every single month over the past year — both in revenue and reputation.
‘‘As demand for AI tools has surged, we’ve positioned ourselves as the people who don’t just talk about it but actually build the thing. That’s led to consistent new work from both existing clients and referrals.’’
Incredible AI is continuing to expand.
Axon Perform
Supporting the movers and shakers
Just three years since it started, Axon Perform is supplying performance analysis systems to elite international sports teams.
Starting with New Zealand Rugby and the All Blacks, it has added top-tier teams across Japan, Europe, South Africa, and Australia.
They include Super Rugby clubs, the Sydney Roosters, and the Springboks.
‘‘Designed specifically for rugby, football, basketball, and other elite sports, Axon Perform’s centralised platform gives performance teams easy access to their data, how and when they need it,’’ founder and chief executive Jon Foote says.
‘‘Our pay-as-you-go model is scalable and adaptable, providing performance analysts and administrators with a streamlined, cost-effective solution that meets the fast-evolving demands of elite sport.’’
Teams report much less manual data handling, faster decision-making, and reduced costs.
Springboks analyst Paddy Sullivan said the information has saved countless hours, boosted the analysis department’s efficiency, and delivered deeper, more powerful insights.
In the last year, Axon has expanded from game data alone to GPS, strength and conditioning, and AI-assisted analytics are on the way.
Staff numbers have increased and an office in Britain was set up in July to accelerate global reach and service delivery.
Hobby Lords Ltd
"Mythic storytelling" propels rapid expansion
Hobby Lords began in a Dunedin garage just three years ago and has since grown into a trans-Tasman force, with six stores across New Zealand and one in Malaysia — the latter opened to secure a direct Asian goods supply line.
With a Net Promoter Score above 92 and thousands of weekly visitors aged 4 to 60, the brand blends retail, events, and mythic storytelling to create unforgettable experiences.
Its latest milestone: opening the largest gaming store in the country, right in the heart of Takapuna.
The team has expanded from two founders to more than 60 staff, all of whom receive a living wage at minimum, plus unlimited annual and sick leave.
Hobby Lords hosts weekly and monthly events featuring beloved franchises like Disney, Pokémon, and Star Wars, and continues to explore expansion across Asia and into Australia.
With six more stores planned in the next 10 months, the brand is charging ahead — building community, celebrating play, and making every launch legendary.
Givenwell
Wellness becomes a given
A fresh approach to workplace wellbeing is driving Givenwell’s rapid growth.
‘‘We’ve gone from an idea to a fast-growing company in under two years, with our roots based right here in Dunedin,’’ founder and chief executive Jonny Mirkin says.
The Givenwell platform lets employers offer digital wellbeing allowances that staff can spend confidentially on whatever supports their health and happiness — from therapy and coaching to gym memberships, massage, and more.
Staff can access hundreds of local providers or choose from millions of options online.
‘‘Traditional models like EAP and health insurance are reactive, supporting people only once they’re already unwell, with engagement typically under 5%,’’ Jonny says.
‘‘Givenwell flips that model. It’s proactive, flexible, and easy to use.
‘‘We hear weekly from members who are transforming their physical, emotional, or mental wellbeing.’’
Givenwell now supports users worldwide and is expanding across Australia, the UK, and North America.
‘‘We’re the only wellbeing platform globally that offers a digital wellbeing allowance backed by a curated marketplace and global claims system.
‘‘We’ve built a system that gives people access to what they genuinely need, when they need it, in a way that fits.’’
