Cairn
Cairn is a New Zealand AI strategy consultancy helping Kiwi businesses adopt AI and navigate technology with confidence. Founded by Ben Walker in Dunedin, Otago. Focus areas: practical AI adoption, Microsoft Copilot training, AI strategy, virtual CIO services, and technology leadership for NZ SMEs.
About
- About Cairn: Founder Ben Walker, 25 years in technology, Microsoft Certified AI Business Professional. Based in Otago, serving nationwide.
- Why Cairn: Positioning, approach, and the story behind the name.
Services
- Practical AI Services: Cairn's EDGE framework (Evaluate, Design, Generate, Expand). Free AI Discovery Workshop, Virtual Chief AI Officer (vCAIO), executive briefings, AI roadmaps, Microsoft Copilot training, and custom AI agent development.
- Technology Leadership: Cairn's AIR framework (Align, Innovate, Reimagine). Virtual CIO, IT strategy, vendor selection, and roadmaps for NZ businesses.
- Cairn Compass: Free AI maturity self-assessment for NZ businesses.
Cornerstone content
- AI Consulting in New Zealand: What It Costs and How to Choose (2026): Pillar piece on AI consulting costs, NZ government co-funding, and how to choose a consultant. Published 2026-04-02.
- The AI Muscle Gap: Why NZ organisations struggle to operationalise AI investments. Published 2026-01-28.
- Planning for 2026: Why the Holiday Season is the Best Time to Think About AI Strategy: Published 2025-12-10.
Blog and podcast
- Cairn Blog: Practical AI, Microsoft Copilot, technology strategy, and leadership essays.
- The Cairn Podcast: Human Leadership in the Age of AI. Host: Ben Walker.
- Cairn Podcast with Gabrielle Dolan: Story Intelligence
- Cairn Podcast with Scott Arrol: Trust, Ecosystem Leadership and Digital Health
Resources
- AI Resources & Guides for NZ Businesses: Curated AI strategy reports, governance frameworks, and NZ-specific guidance.
Contact
- Contact: Email connect@cairn.nz. Phone +64 27 471 4177. Based in Dunedin, New Zealand.