No Tech Day 2-Hour Challenge for digital equity
This 22 August, InternetNZ is proud to support No Tech Day, a national movement urging Kiwis to take meaningful action against digital inequities. By stepping away from our screens for just two hours, we can reflect on the barriers many New Zealanders face every day and commit to driving change.
Why we’re standing behind No Tech Day
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Digital equity is essential. Twenty per cent of people in Aotearoa New Zealand experience significant barriers to accessing the digital world, whether through limited Internet access, unsuitable devices, or digital exclusion.
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The most in need remain the least visible. Communities like Māori and Pasifika, people with disabilities, seniors, low-income households, and those in remote areas are disproportionately affected.
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Unplugging is meaningful and accessible. The 2-Hour Challenge invites anyone to disconnect for two hours on 22 August. It’s a small, manageable act of empathy — and a powerful statement.
How you can take part
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Register and access the No Tech Day Amplify Pack. It includes posters, social media assets, factsheets, and conversation starters tailored to schools, workplaces, and communities.
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Join the 2-Hour Challenge. Choose a two-hour window on 22 August to unplug. Reflect on the experience — what did it feel like? Can you do your mahi or work? Access the services you rely on? Stay connected with friends and whānau? What would it be like to face these barriers every day?
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Support the movement. Consider donating to the Digital Equity Coalition Aotearoa (DECA), who ensure funds go directly to initiatives like device access, Internet affordability, and digital skills training.
Why this matters to InternetNZ
We believe that an Internet that benefits all New Zealanders must be inclusive and accessible — always. By participating in No Tech Day:
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We stand in solidarity with communities facing digital barriers.
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We elevate awareness through action and storytelling.
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We model our values — walk-the-talk, curiosity and partnership in tangible, shared experiences.
Get involved with us
We invite all InternetNZ supporters — our members, community partners, schools, and networks — to participate in the 2-Hour Challenge.
Let’s remember that digital equity isn’t something any one person or organisation can solve alone.
“Nāu te rourou, nāku te rourou, ka ora ai te iwi. With your food basket and my food basket, the people will thrive.”
This whakataukī (Māori proverb or saying) speaks to the heart of community and collaboration. Everyone has something to offer, a piece of the puzzle that, when combined, allows us all to flourish.
By unplugging together, reflecting together and acting together, we can help build a future where everyone in New Zealand has the access, skills and opportunities they need to thrive in the digital world, together.