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David Downs
Photo Credit: © David Downs


A native of Whanganui, David began his working life as an actor, writer, comedian and co-founder (with Jon and others) of The Classic Comedy & Bar in Auckland. He left this behind to start a second career in IT, which he stuck with for nearly 20 years, including a stint living and working for Microsoft in Asia. David's strong interest in innovative companies, and his pride in New Zealand, lead him back to Aotearoa and his third career at government agency New Zealand Trade & Enterprise, where he helps local businesses grow internationally.

David lives in Devonport, Auckland, with his TV producer wife Katherine and his three fast-growing boys Jack, Joshua and Toby.

Books by David Downs

No.8 Re-charged

A follow-up title to the hugely successful No. 8 Re-wired.

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No. 8 Re-wired: 202 New Zealand Inventions That Changed the World

A colourful, often surprising celebration of Kiwi can-do, No. 8 Re-wired is the most complete and entertaining book about Kiwi inventions yet.

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