AUCKLAND, Today: Independent Australian agency MONTOYA has landed in Aotearoa, driven by client demand and a growing trans-Tasman network of creative talent.
Founded in 2022 by New Zealand-born creative leader Bob Mackintosh, MONTOYA offers an alternative to traditional agencies. The agency works with brands like Air New Zealand, Les Mills and Virgin Active across Australia, New Zealand, Singapore and Thailand.
The New Zealand move is backed by a promise of big-agency thinking without the overheads. Clients get direct access to senior talent, transparent conversations and a nimble project model that shifts quickly from challenge to solution.
Central to MONTOYA’s approach is connecting creative expertise with brands to tackle real business challenges. Flexible compensation structures ensure the focus stays on results, not process.
“I’ve been building relationships with exceptional creative and production partners on both sides of the Tasman since we launched.” – Bob Mackintosh
Mackintosh says the local market’s emphasis on efficiency and effectiveness makes the timing ideal. “I’ve been building relationships with exceptional creative and production partners on both sides of the Tasman since we launched,” he said.
“We’re seeing a real appetite from clients in both New Zealand and Australia for a more direct, senior-led model, one that strips away unnecessary agency layers and connects marketers directly with the creatives developing the work.”
“Our sweet spot sits at the intersection of culture, storytelling and technology, with a track record for developing campaigns that tap into broader cultural conversations to drive relevance and organic reach well beyond traditional advertising.”
“This approach has been particularly powerful in the travel, wellness, entertainment and tech sectors – categories we’re passionate about, and where that passion translates into work that consistently punches above its weight.”
Recent highlights include multi-market creative for Virgin Active across Asia-Pacific, content initiatives for Les Mills and trans-Tasman work for Air New Zealand.
Before founding MONTOYA, Mackintosh held senior roles including Executive Creative Director at Host Sydney and APAC ECD at R/GA, leading campaigns for Nike, Coca-Cola, Bankwest, Shiseido, Nikon, NRL and Telstra. His work has been awarded at Cannes Lions, D&AD, The One Show, Spikes Asia, LIA and Clio Awards.
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