The World Class New Zealand programme (World Class NZ), established December 2001, contributes to the government's strategy of increasing New Zealand's international competitiveness by improving global connectedness.

At the heart of this initiative is the aspiration to build an innovative New Zealand by effectively tapping into the knowledge, expertise and networks of world-class New Zealanders and 'friends of New Zealand' around the globe.

World Class New Zealand is a joint venture between New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) and Kea New Zealand. It comprises two parts: the World Class NZ Awards and World Class NZ Network.

World Class NZ Awards
The World Class NZ Awards were established in 2003 to recognise New Zealanders who make a significant contribution to New Zealand’s success in the world by generously giving their time, knowledge and skills to help New Zealand companies and industries.

The 'Friend of New Zealand' category was introduced in 2010 to acknowledge a wider community of people who talk publicly about New Zealand, invest in New Zealand, and actively support our organisations and causes. The award recognises the important role they play in helping to build global connections and helping support Kiwi businesses internationally. 
 
World Class NZ Network
The World Class NZ Network is a global network of New Zealanders and 'New Zealand-friendly' experts committed to helping New Zealand's development, international competitiveness and economic growth.

The programme targets individuals with the expertise and experience to:

• Provide insight into sectors, technologies and global trends relevant to New Zealand.
• Maximise the global exposure of New Zealand capability and assist in opening new market opportunities.
• Foster strategic alliances.
• Maximise strategic learning opportunities.
• Facilitate knowledge and skill transfer.
• Assist with specific projects.
• Provide strategic development advice to high level officials in private companies, universities, Crown Research institutes, government ministries, government agencies and ministers.

Membership is invitation only, but open to New Zealanders and ‘friends of New Zealand’ who:

• Have a strong affinity with New Zealand.
• Are key ‘movers and shakers’ as well as leaders in their field of expertise.
• Have international credibility and a high level profile and influence.
• Have extensive networks and links to key individuals, companies, institutions, and governments.
• Are decision makers who can contribute to the development of strategies and activities in specific markets.