With over six million smartphones in New Zealand, whether you’re building a consumer-facing mobile app or a mobile business solution, New Zealand app developers have the skills, creativity and know-how to bring your vision to life.
With thousands of mobile app developers in New Zealand, selecting your best options to partner with can be daunting. Worry no more, as we list the Top 5 App Developers in New Zealand in 2026.
1. Elegant Media – New Zealand’s most Trusted App Developers
Elegant Media is a multi-award-winning, AS/NZS ISO 9001 and AS/NZS ISO 27001 certified New Zealand mobile app builder, established in 2010. The Company specialises in the development of mobile applications and AI-powered technology and software solutions.
Elegant Media has delivered cutting-edge mobile app products and solutions across various sectors, including Defence, Agriculture, Automotive, Lifestyle and Health, demonstrating its versatility and expertise in creating solutions that drive real-world impact.
Core Services:
- iOS and Android Mobile & Web App Development
- Augmented and Virtual Reality App Development
- Artificial Intelligence Solutions Development
- Mobile E-Commerce Platform Development
- Custom Software Application Development
- Backend Data Management System Development
New Zealand’s Best App Development Company
For more than 15 years, Elegant Media has established itself as an award-winning trusted leader in creating outstanding digital mobile solutions. The Company collaborates with clients across sectors – from emerging startups and established enterprises to public sector organisations – supporting them in reaching their goals.
The Elegant Media team is made up of expert consultants, analysts, designers, developers, and project managers who work collaboratively to turn concepts into scalable, high-performing digital solutions crafted for each client’s specific needs.
Elegant Media delivers digital solutions designed to overcome real-world challenges, from simplifying daily tasks such as meal ordering to automating intricate business workflows for greater efficiency and productivity.
Put simply, if you’ve got a great app idea but not the technical resources to make it happen, Elegant Media is the partner that takes you from idea to launch and beyond.
What Makes Elegant Media the top Mobile App Development Company in New Zealand:
- A Proven Track Record: 15+ years of experience in the industry as a trusted partner
- Flexible Payment Options: Their revolutionary Flexi Plan™ enables customers to save up to 80% in development costs compared to fixed price quotes
- Global Recognition: A Deloitte Asia-Pacific Technology Fast 500 Company and winner of numerous Stevie® and Clutch B2B Awards.
2. Alphero
With offices in Wellington and Auckland, Alphero started developing apps in New Zealand in 2010. They offer a special focus on UI/UX design.
3. Custom D
Custom D began trading in 2014 and is a Christchurch-based mobile app development company in New Zealand, on a mission to help businesses grow and transform using technology.
4. KWD Apps
With offices in Hamilton, Wellington, Christchurch and Perth, KWD Apps was founded in 2010 in Auckland.
5. PaperKite
Headquartered in Wellington, Paperkite has been active since 2010 and is a mobile app builder that promises better digital experiences and outcomes for its customers using simplicity.
What Makes New Zealand App Developers Stand Out?
- World-class talent, local innovation – NZ developers combine global-standard technical skills with a uniquel culture of innovation and problem-solving.
- Strong design thinking – A focus on user-centric design, clean interfaces, and seamless functionality defines many NZ-built apps.
- Collaborative culture – Kiwi app teams are known for open communication, agility, and close client collaboration.
- Agile and adaptable – Many firms work with lean, fast-moving processes ideal for startups and enterprises alike.
- Quality over quantity – NZ’s smaller but highly skilled tech ecosystem emphasises craftsmanship, testing, and long-term scalability.
- Ethical and sustainable mindset – There’s a growing emphasis on purpose-driven tech and sustainability within NZ’s digital sector.
New Zealand’s tech sector is distinguished by its innovation, quality, and a deeply collaborative spirit, making it an ideal place for both ambitious startups and growing SMEs to build their digital future. So take the next step, choose your mobile app development partner wisely, and start bringing your vision to life today.
Methodology
The above rankings are based on our industry research.
Searching for a mobile app developer in New Zealand? No matter your location – from Christchurch to Auckland – contact us today. We will provide a customised proposal aligned precisely with your project’s requirements and budget.
Empowering Young Minds for the Future
Elegant Media supports The Smith Family through monthly donations to the Learning for Life Programme. Through our monthly donations, we help to help children access quality education and lifelong learning opportunities that equip them with the skills and confidence they need to thrive in an ever-changing world.
