In his latest episode, Go Global co-founder Sebastian Naum chats with David Downs to uncover the unique branding strategies of New Zealand. They explore how deeply rooted Māori cultural values such as hospitality (manaakitanga), care for the land (kaitiakitanga), trustworthiness (pono), and a spirit of adventure (pōkaitanga) are shaping modern business and driving the success of Kiwi brands worldwide.

The discussion highlights the importance of authenticity in brand messaging, particularly for today’s conscious consumers. David emphasizes that the silver fern—a national symbol—represents not just a visual identity but a commitment to trust and transparency, qualities that resonate deeply with global audiences. He explains how these values contribute to the strong brand loyalty that Kiwi companies enjoy, especially as they expand into markets like the U.S.

The episode explores real-world examples of how Kiwi brands have leveraged these cultural strengths to build meaningful connections with their audiences and scale globally. From sustainable practices to long-term community engagement, New Zealand’s approach to branding is both innovative and deeply rooted in tradition.

Whether you’re looking to strengthen your own brand’s authenticity or simply gain insight into what makes New Zealand’s branding approach so powerful, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways.