Top 10 Digital Ad Spending Channels in New Zealand (2026)

As New Zealand's digital landscape continues to evolve, advertisers are prioritizing the most effective channels for reaching their audiences. In 2026, these are the top 10 digital ad spending channels shaping the market.

1. Social Media Advertising

Social media ad spend in New Zealand is projected to reach NZ$1.2 billion in 2026, accounting for 45% of total digital ad investments, reflecting its dominance in audience engagement.

2. Search Engine Marketing (SEM)

SEM is the second-largest channel with NZ$750 million allocated in 2026, representing 28% of digital ad expenditure, driven by increased online shopping and local searches.

3. Video Advertising

Video ads are set to capture 15% of the digital ad budget, with NZ$400 million spent in 2026, as brands leverage video for storytelling and product demos.

4. Display Advertising

Display ads will account for 7% of digital ad spend, totaling NZ$200 million, with programmatic buying becoming more prevalent among NZ marketers.

5. Connected TV (CTV) Advertising

CTV advertising is gaining traction with NZ$180 million expected to be spent in 2026, making up 6.8% of digital ad budgets, driven by streaming popularity.

6. Influencer Marketing

Influencer marketing investments are projected to reach NZ$150 million, constituting 5.6% of digital ad spend, as brands seek authentic engagement.

7. Native Advertising

Native ads will represent 3.5% of digital ad expenditure, totaling NZ$90 million, utilized for seamless brand integrations across platforms.

8. Audio Advertising (Podcasts & Streaming)**

Audio advertising will see NZ$70 million spent in 2026, accounting for 2.6% of digital ad budgets, with a rise in podcast sponsorships.

9. Email Marketing

Email marketing remains vital, with NZ$50 million allocated in 2026, emphasizing personalized communication and customer retention.

10. Digital Out-of-Home (DOOH) Advertising

DOOH advertising will command NZ$40 million in 2026, representing 1.5% of digital ad spending, boosted by smart billboard innovations.

Conclusion

Digital advertising in New Zealand continues to diversify, with social media and search dominating the landscape in 2026. Marketers are increasingly adopting innovative channels like CTV and influencer marketing to stay ahead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which digital channel is expected to see the highest growth in New Zealand in 2026?

A: Video advertising is expected to see significant growth, reaching NZ$400 million, driven by increased consumption of video content across devices.

Q: How much is New Zealand expected to spend on social media advertising in 2026?

A: Social media advertising is projected to reach NZ$1.2 billion, making it the largest digital ad channel in the country.

Q: Are traditional digital channels still relevant in 2026?

A: Yes, traditional channels like search and display remain vital, but they are complemented by emerging formats like CTV and influencer marketing.

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All statistics are 2026 estimates and projections based on industry trend analysis.