New Zealand website developers create applications for the Internet or a distributed network that runs from a web server to a browser. Most web developers also are skilled in related areas that include web design, web server administration and search engine optimization.

Web developers in New Zealand contribute to a set of guidelines that they consider to be best practices. Web design is a separate discipline that primarily addresses the appearance, usability and visibility of the website.

New Zealand web development agencies generally fall into one of the following three areas:

1. Front-end development by the New Zealand web development agency relates to the interaction of the website with the user. This includes the actual appearance of the website as well as the means used to display information and accept user input.

2. Back-end development refers to the database portion of the application. This includes the maintenance and administration of the database in addition to the storage and retrieval of information.

3. Middleware is the term used to describe software that connects the front end with the back end.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find experienced content developers to perform New Zealand web page development

New Zealand web development companies will be able to design the website, write and edit text, and document conversions. Content development also includes the creation of guest books or forums and site navigation.

I recommend: Christchurch-based Hot Code Designs uses the Woogloo system that includes an easy-to-use content management system. Net Design is in Auckland and uses a Flash cross-browser content editor and JigSite for the content management system.

Locate New Zealand web developers that provide programming services

Website developers in New Zealand should be proficient in technologies that include CGI/PERL, HTML, Flash and JavaScript. These tools will create hyperlinks, e-mail auto responders, web page validation and user access.

I recommend: Sprocket Web Design is in Nelson and provides web applications that include information collection, booking systems and listings. Auckland-based Netconcepts uses PHP and MySQL for building web applications.

Hire a New Zealand web design agency that focuses on the aesthetics of a website

A website that attracts and keeps visitors is the primary goal of web site design. New Zealand web designers should use a consistent style throughout the site that is appealing and relevant. The site should also have a user-friendly interface with simple and reliable navigation.

I recommend: Auckland-based Webmarkworld.com specializes in compelling and appealing layouts that hold a visitor’s attention. Auckland-based Digital Stream is dedicated to designing intuitive websites that the user can maintain.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  The cost of a website is directly related to its level of functionality. The most inexpensive sites that web developers in New Zealand can make will do very little, but the cost will increase dramatically if you need a site with online payment processing, custom coding and advanced graphics. Web developers will need expertise in Flash and eCommerce development to provide these capabilities.