Can modern signatures do more than just replace pen and paper?

At the Digital Trust Hui Taumata in Wellington, a high-energy panel explored how digital signatures are transforming major sectors—from agriculture to healthcare, education to finance.

Moderated by Maria Robertson (Chair – Digital Identity NZ), the panel featured:

• Joel Foster (Lumin PDF)
• Chris Claridge (Trust Alliance)
• Philip Nye (Verify – IBM)
• Suzy McMillan (MinterEllisonRuddWatts)

The kōrero revealed a clear message: digital signatures are no longer a convenience—they’re becoming essential infrastructure for a faster, more trusted, and more productive Aotearoa.

Digital Signatures Are Now Critical Infrastructure

What used to be a tech upgrade is now a national productivity lever. Whether in legal, agricultural, or enterprise contexts, digital signing has moved well beyond convenience—it’s now about security, compliance, and saving time at scale.

“Agreements underpin our society… we need to make it simple, easy and efficient—but with assurance.” – Joel Foster, Lumin PDF

Joel shared how Lumin PDF’s global users are already signing with verifiable credentials, but stressed the need for trusted issuers and regulatory alignment to unlock widespread adoption in Aotearoa.

Agriculture Is Drowning in Paper—and Ready for Change

Chris Claridge didn’t mince words: outdated paper-based consenting systems in rural sectors are dragging down productivity and wasting public money. Digital signatures, paired with verifiable credentials, offer a smarter path forward.

“The waste is simply staggering… consenting and compliance mechanisms must become more efficient to unlock the productive sector.” – Chris Claridge, Trust Alliance

He argued that the biggest barrier isn’t technology—it’s people holding onto outdated processes. His call to action: redesign systems to reduce costs and speed up service delivery.

Innovation Needs Legal and Legislative Support

While digital signing is already revolutionising deal-making, the legal panellists reminded the audience that not all documents are equal. Suzy McMillan highlighted how legislation still limits digital signing in areas like wills or enduring powers of attorney.

“Digital signatures have sped up deal cycles exponentially… but there’s room to grow.” – Suzy McMillan, MinterEllisonRuddWatts

The panel agreed: unlocking these next-level use cases requires clear standards, legal reform, and confidence that digital platforms meet compliance thresholds.

Trust Frameworks Are the Missing Link

Philip Nye shared a surprising contrast: a multi-million dollar house sale signed via email, while a routine workplace contract required multi-factor authentication. For Philip, this mismatch highlights the need for verified digital credentials—and consistent trust frameworks.

“We need to be able to retroactively prove: yes, it was Phil who signed that contract—not just someone who clicked a link.” – Philip Nye, Verify – IBM

His takeaway? Stronger identity-backed signing flows aren’t just safer—they build public trust and reduce fraud. But they also require flexibility. Digital credentials should enhance trust, not become a barrier to participation.

Stand-Out Quotes

“Anything is an improvement over what we currently have.” – Chris Claridge, Trust Alliance

“Digital signatures can be anything—as long as it’s verifiable.” – Suzy McMillan, MinterEllisonRuddWatts

“Having choice is good. Digital credentials aren’t always the only answer.” – Philip Nye, Verify – IBM

What’s Next?

Stay connected with Digital Identity NZ (DINZ) to help shape the standards, legislation, and innovative tools that will power a trusted digital future across Aotearoa.