First Focus acquires NZ-based OneHQ adding 100 staff to the MSP

This deal is a part of the MSPs broader growth strategy.

AI and IT managing service provider First Focus has acquired New Zealand-based MSP OneHQ giving the Aussie company more scale in that region.

Brendan Richie, chief growth officer, First Focus told CRN Australia that OneHQ is a “strong New Zealand business with a great team, long-standing client relationships and a reputation for practical, responsive service”.

“That is exactly the sort of business we want to bring into First Focus,” he added.

First Focus was acquired by US-based Integris last month.

Richie explained that by bringing OneHQ into First Focus, they can support more New Zealand clients with a deeper bench of technical expertise and a broader range of services.

“That includes AI, cyber security, cloud, automation, application development, modern workplace, connectivity, communications, consulting and 24x7 support,” he said.

“It also gives OneHQ clients access to the investments First Focus is making in AI.

“We want to bring practical, outcome-focused AI capability to local SMBs, including initiatives like our AI investment fund and Core, which are designed to help clients move from interest in AI to real productivity and business improvement.”

The acquisition takes First Focus to more than 100 staff in New Zealand and more than 450 staff across the ANZ region.

Richie said the OneHQ team will become part of First Focus.

“For clients, the intent is continuity. They will continue to work with the people they know, now backed by the broader capability, systems and resources of First Focus,” he said.

“For staff, the acquisition creates more opportunity. They will be part of a larger business with a broader technical team, more specialist capability, clearer career pathways and access to the investments we are making in AI, automation and service delivery.”

Troy Stodart, the operations manager at OneHQ, is moving into the head of delivery role for First Focus in New Zealand, working alongside Travis Brunton, who is the NZ general manager.

Looking at the New Zealand market, Richie said there is a “real opportunity” in the region.

“The market is changing quickly, and businesses want more than traditional IT support,” he said.

“They want a partner that can help them improve productivity, strengthen security and make practical use of AI.”

First Focus is open to further acquisitions in New Zealand where there is the right fit.

“Our approach is selective,” he said.

“We are interested in businesses with strong client relationships, capable people and a culture that aligns with ours. We are not acquiring for the sake of size alone.

“We are building a managed AI and IT services platform that can deliver better outcomes for clients and better opportunities for people.”

Richie noted that this acquisition is another step in their broader strategy to become the leading global supplier of managed AI and IT services for SMBs across New Zealand, Australia, and beyond.

“The MSP market is changing quickly,” he said.

“The role of a provider is no longer just to keep systems running. Clients need a partner that can help them build secure technology foundations, use data more effectively, and continually find ways to improve through AI and automation.

“That is the role First Focus is building for, and OneHQ strengthens our ability to deliver that in New Zealand,” he ended.