Abstract:
In the past decade, there has been a rapid rise and recognition of technology clusters, innovation hubs, and technology precincts. Clusters are not a new phenomenon, and they are considered to promote specialised activities within local regions to allow networks of associated firms to develop their productivity and innovation for global competition. This thesis examined Level Two, a deep technology cluster in Auckland, New Zealand. The purpose of this study was to determine how Level Two, has impacted the New Zealand economy. Specifically, the research develops the history of Level Two including past and present firms that are part of the cluster. The key questions that direct this study are: How has the Level Two cluster impacted the New Zealand economy? How has the Level Two cluster impacted firms that are or were part of the cluster? The study followed a qualitative case study methodology and utilised semi-structured interviews as the primary data collection source. There was a secondary data gathering phase in order to provide supporting evidence and to gather basic information regarding the cluster and associated firms to build the case. Sixteen interviews were conducted and evidence supporting the high-level themes of variation, effectiveness and measures of success for a cluster are presented in the primary findings. The findings were discussed in relation to the literature and case description. The research found that the Level Two cluster has significantly impacted the New Zealand economy by providing a space that was needed by deep technology start-ups and companies in the growth-stage. The firms associated with the Level Two cluster have led to just under NZ$1 billion in economic growth for the New Zealand economy. Level Two has had a significant impact on tenant firms leading to increased pace of development and providing access to networks among other benefits.
