Global fintech Airwallex has launched in Aotearoa, marking a key milestone in its mission to provide businesses with innovative financial solutions.
With a commitment to supporting New Zealand’s business ecosystem, Airwallex has appointed Lowry Gladwell as its Associate Director of New Zealand, “the company’s first local employee, to lead its ambitious expansion plans.”
Gladwell will be joined by Matt Sek, a key regional leader, as Airwallex “aims to grow its New Zealand team to 10 employees by the end of 2025.”
Gladwell said:
“With New Zealand businesses increasingly looking for agile, cost-effective financial solutions, Airwallex is here to challenge the status quo. Our entry into this market represents more than just expansion — it’s about providing Kiwi businesses with the tools they need to grow globally without the friction and high costs of traditional banking.”
As part of its expansion, Airwallex is rolling out several product offerings tailored to the needs of New Zealand businesses.
The company’s corporate cards offering will be bolstered “with a physical card version to complement the existing virtual option.”
These solutions will empower Kiwi companies to “manage expenses more efficiently, reducing high transaction fees and improving financial control. In addition, online payments will sit alongside existing FX, global accounts and company and employee cards.”
Matt Sek, VP SME & Growth, ANZ said:
“Managing business spending shouldn’t be a hassle. Our new corporate card solution makes it easier for teams to handle expenses while ensuring greater transparency and efficiency, while payment acceptance allows businesses to accept payments from customers around the globe with fast, flexible settlements and a seamless checkout experience. This is just the beginning of our commitment to providing smarter, more intuitive financial tools for New Zealand businesses.”
New Zealand’s business environment, while dynamic, has long been dominated by “a concentrated banking sector, leading to high fees and sluggish international transactions.”
Airwallex is set to improve the market by offering “lower costs, competitive FX rates, and faster payments — critical advantages for businesses operating globally, particularly in New Zealand’s high-growth SaaS and export sectors.”
With the country’s economic recovery underway following a challenging period, Airwallex’s presence “comes at a crucial time.”
The company’s solutions will aim to provide “financial agility for businesses looking to scale, particularly as New Zealand strives to double its export growth over the next decade.”
Airwallex claims it has demonstrated support for startups in New Zealand, with significant “sign-ups under its Airwallex for Startups initiative.”
By offering international payments, global accounts, and competitive FX rates, Airwallex says it is positioning itself “as a vital partner for the country’s burgeoning startup ecosystem.”
Gladwell added:
“We understand that the key industries of growth in New Zealand include Tourism, eCommerce, and Tech. Airwallex is already working with some of the country’s most innovative and well-established brands, including Rodd & Gunn, Tracksuit and Auror. Our deep knowledge of these industries allows us to tailor our solutions to meet the unique needs of Kiwi businesses, helping them navigate global expansion with ease.”
Airwallex’s entry into New Zealand marks “a long-term investment in the country’s business landscape.”
As the company continues to grow its local team and expand its offerings, it remains committed to helping Kiwi businesses “navigate the evolving financial landscape with confidence.”
Gladwell concluded:
“We’re here to provide New Zealand businesses with better experiences, lower fees, and faster payments in a market that’s crying out for competition. We’re excited for what’s ahead.”