Apple makes PC market headway in NZ

The iconic Apple brand has a growing presence in the New Zealand market, research shows.

Apple exceeded 11 per cent of the market share in the second 2010 quarter for the first time in 15 years, according to the latest figures released by IDC Research.

"Apple displayed stronger growth than the overall PC market. The total PC unit growth was 30.6 per cent year on year for the same quarter, but Apple grew their business by more than 70 per cent.

Overall, Apple desktop and notebook sales accounted for 20 per cent of the total market growth," IDC consultant Liam Gunson said.

"The second quarter of 2010 saw the market grow strongly in retail and notebooks, both of which are strong areas for Apple and Renaissance."

The notebook market grew 38 per cent in units in the second 2010 quarter, compared to the same quarter in 2009 overall, while Apple saw a 73 per cent growth.

Auckland-based Renaissance has distributed Apple in New Zealand for more than 25 years and also runs retail outlet MagnumMac.

Chief executive Richard Webb said its MagnumMac business is continuing to grow, and it has expanded its Apple offerings, including Apple product training.

"The iPad product, although not included in the CPU market share, has been a huge boost to MagnumMac revenue and brought in many customers keen to upgrade their Macs at the same time."

Apple and Renaissance meet each quarter and the company knew Apple was always looking to enhance its channels to the market.

- NZPA