Experience Microsoft Teams Premium

The new offering from Microsoft - Teams Premium - builds on the current Teams experience, incorporating additional features to help make Teams meetings even more personalised, intelligent, and secure. We go through the list of features, including virtual appointments and webinars.

Global disruptor Pax8 seeks rapid growth with Umbrellar

Umbrellar delivers a 'Microsoft lens' to propel Pax8's global growth plans, while giving MSPs access to a robust marketplace to help build their business.

Rethinking where we’re going to – the new world of work

"Going back is not really an option. So what we need to rethink is where we're going to." - Jane Mackarell, Microsoft Business Group Lead, Modern Work and Surface. Watch this special event on reengineering the employee experience.

Help your customers grow with Microsoft NCE discounts

Starting January 1, 2023, only New Commerce Experience (NCE) subscriptions will earn incentives through the Microsoft Commercial Incentives program, and Resellers will lose Legacy CSP incentives and rebates.

SQL Server 2022 general availability and price increase

Microsoft have announced the availability date and price increase for SQL Server 2022. We break it all down for you.

Microsoft releases new add-on for Defender for Business

Microsoft recently announced the availability of Microsoft Defender for Business Servers - an add-on to Defender for Business that enables you to secure your server operating systems with the same protection you get for client devices. We unpack what that means, licensing and subscription costs and why you should consider it for your business.

KPMG and Umbrellar partner to simplify cloud transformation

KPMG New Zealand and Umbrellar Powered by Pax8 have today announced a partnership to provide end-to-end delivery of cloud transformation for New Zealand organisations.

Auckland Transport greenlights landmark Microsoft cloud agreement

Migration to new hyperscale datacenter region promises greater innovation, sustainability and skills to deliver the future of transport.

Hybrid work is just work. Are we doing it wrong?

In the latest Work Trend Index Pulse Report from Microsoft, new data points to three urgent pivots for leaders to help employees and organisations thrive.

Windows 11 2022 update now available

Windows 11 is leveling up to bring users closer to what they love.

Mind the GDAP: bulk migration tool available til October 31st

If the whole DAP/GDAP transition has you scratching your head, don’t worry. We go through what it all means, what you need to do and why this is actually a very good change of policy from Microsoft.

Podcast: Vanessa Sorenson – Growing businesses and creating industry depth with Microsoft

Umbrellar CEO Dave Howden and Vanessa Sorenson, Chief Partner Officer A/NZ and Managing Director Microsoft NZ, catch up on all the dramatic changes since their last podcast chat - her roles, the pandemic, new data centres for the region and the integration of Australia and New Zealand in the Microsoft world.

Conscious Cloud: Microsoft’s Aotearoa datacentre pledge

Microsoft's datacentre region will be powered by 100% carbon free energy from Day One. Russell Craig, Microsoft New Zealand's National Technology Officer, shares what this investment in our technological and environmental future will look like.

Podcast: What will the new Microsoft Data Centre mean for the country – and your business?

Umbrellar CEO David Howden and Head of Business Operations Nadia Phillips took some time out to talk to Microsoft's Patrick Quesnel and Jimmy Kerr about the upcoming launch of the new Microsoft datacenter region in New Zealand. Are you ready for it?

Podcast: Umbrellar have joined the Pax8 family

CEO Dave Howden and Head of Business Operations Nadia Phillips share the background story behind the recently announced purchase of New Zealand company Umbrellar Cloud Ltd by US-based cloud technology distributor Pax8.

Who is Pax8?

Pax8 recently announced the acquisition of Umbrellar, the New Zealand award-winning, services-led Microsoft Cloud Solutions Provider. So what does this mean for the Aotearoa New Zealand cloud ecosystem in general - and Umbrellar and their customers in particular? We go through the background and unpack why this is a win-win for everyone.

Umbrellar joins the Pax8 whānau

Pax8, the leading cloud commerce marketplace, today announced it has acquired Umbrellar, the services-led Microsoft cloud solutions provider currently offering cloud managed services, migration, advisory services, and cloud procurement for over 1,000 New Zealand businesses.

Latest features part of Binokula update

Binokula, created by Stellar Consulting Group, offers Power BI users important functionality that allows you to securely share Power BI reports beyond your firewalls. We highlight recent updates to the platform that make your data and analytics life even easier.

The journey to net zero

New Zealand is one of a handful of countries taking the ambitious step of legislating their commitment to net zero by 2050. Microsoft have partnered with Goldsmiths, University of London, to develop "Accelerating the journey to net zero: A blueprint for New Zealand Aotearoa" - a report designed to help you on your journey to net zero.

Aware Group appoints Mike Jenkins as chairman

Microsoft innovation partner Aware Group has appointed The Instillery founder Mike Jenkins to chair its board, with CEO ​Brandon Hutcheson keen to focus on a new three-year plan, Series A capital raise and acquisitions.

2degrees Fights for Fair for Kiwi Business

2degrees is once again Fighting for Fair for Kiwi Business, this time working with Microsoft and Umbrellar to deliver a streamlined ride to the cloud, with the launch of its new Cloud Navigator service.

Enghouse Interactive Chooses Azure for Asia Pacific CCaaS Node

Enghouse Interactive, Microsoft and Umbrellar have partnered to harness the power of Azure, establishing an Australian and New Zealand node to make shifting your customer service operations to the cloud easier.

6 transformations to disrupt your legacy IT operations

Mobile Mentor rounds out their Zero Trust series with a summary of "Six pillars of Modern Endpoint Management" and a link to download the full whitepaper. It highlights why we can't continue with legacy IT operations and how disrupting the status quo will have your IT team thanking you.

Windows 11: a new era for the PC

The last two years have profoundly changed how we live our lives, with the PC playing a more meaningful role than ever. New behaviours that were born out of necessity have evolved into habits as people and organisations reevaluate priorities through a new lens.

Nominations open for 2022 Microsoft Partner of the Year

The Microsoft Partner of the Year Awards acknowledge outstanding successes and innovations by partners in over 100 countries and in a wide variety of categories, including partner competencies, cloud to edge technologies, entrepreneurial spirit and social impact.

Microsoft New Commerce Experience Launch Promotion

**URGENT UPDATE** Due to high demand leading up to the March 1, 2022 Modern Work pricing change, Microsoft has created a transitional grace period.

‘Hope is not lost’ – 2021 saw governments start to take cybersecurity seriously

Microsoft’s Digital Defence Report for 2021 is a sobering read. Over its 134 pages, it catalogues the sophisticated playbook of a global network of cybercriminals. 

Umbrellar wins Reseller News NZ Partner Innovation Collaboration award

Winning the 2021 Reseller News NZ Partner Innovation - Collaboration award is just the icing on the cake for Umbrellar. They're more excited about the successful partnership with Medtech and Augen that has led to building a New Zealand healthcare solution platform that's saving lives by empowering doctors to focus on diagnosing and curing their patients. Built in the cloud, the ALEX platform is already proving its worth in the NZ health sector and is readily available to other countries such as Australia, Ireland and the UK.

Progress on Microsoft’s effort to decarbonise the cloud for global customers

Demand for data and digital services is expected to continue its exponential growth over the coming years, with global internet traffic projected to double by 2022.

Microsoft cloud agreement aims to boost NZ health service equity

Microsoft New Zealand has welcomed the signing of a three-year cloud services agreement that will see the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) do more with data to help prevent re-injuries and address inequities of care around New Zealand.

Understanding the carbon emissions of your cloud usage

Previously known as the Microsoft Sustainability Calculator, the Emissions Impact Dashboard equips organisations with the critical insights needed to make more informed, data-driven decisions about sustainable computing.

Microsoft’s move to simplify its Open License program and how it affects you

Created 20 years ago, The Microsoft Open License program was designed for small and midsized customers to buy multiple perpetual software licenses at a volume price. In a recent announcement, Microsoft is transforming its commerce platform to benefit both customers and partners alike.

Aotearoa Keyboard and more features now available with Windows 11 general release

As of 5 October availability of Windows 11 begins through a free upgrade on eligible Windows 10 PCs and on new PCs pre-installed with Windows 11.

No password? No problem – Microsoft moves to remove consumer passwords

When it comes to protecting your digital identity, passwords are hardly the best method of authentication. They’re easy to forget, they’re easy to lose, and oftentimes you can even find them floating around on the internet if you’re not careful.

First look: Windows 365 – Microsoft’s PC in the cloud is user-friendly but pricey

I’ll say it right upfront, Windows 365 is exactly what I’ve been seeking, for a long time.

The Kiwi tech consulting company extending Power BI’s reach

Organisations all over the world are now using Microsoft’s popular business analytics service, Power BI. 

Improve your organisation’s adaptability through security and privacy

A discussion that explores why security and privacy are universal and critically important underpinnings for all modern organisations.

Big Tech just got much bigger – what to learn from their record profits

Umbrellar, recognised leader in Server Migrations to Azure awarded coveted Microsoft accreditation

Umbrellar, New Zealand's leading Microsoft Cloud Solutions Provider to business, government, healthcare and CSP resellers, announced today that it has earned the coveted Microsoft Windows Server and SQL Server Migration to Microsoft Azure advanced specialisation.

Windows 11 revealed – 5 things you need to know about the new operating system

ANALYSIS: With Windows 11, Microsoft is aiming for a sleeker, less-intrusive operating system that throws the door open to mobile app developers seeking access to the world’s most popular operating system.

How The IT Team made Pencarrow’s day

Their IT system was in desperate need of an update, but Pencarrow didn't want to risk its security. That's when The IT Team stepped in to help.

Microsoft Competency extensions in 2021

If your competency anniversary date is between January 1 and June 30, 2021, Microsoft are extending your existing competency or competencies through your anniversary date in 2022.

Microsoft New Zealand cloud business lead appointed to regional role

Microsoft New Zealand cloud business lead appointed to regional role

BNZ to join Fonterra as anchor tenant in new Azure region

Microsoft has another anchor tenant lined up for the new data centre region it will open here, with BNZ moving in as part of a major cloud migration push at the bank.

Microsoft Partner APAC #TechPowerUp

#LessCodeMorePower with PowerApps

Partner Masterclass: What works in Online Marketing?

Co-op Fund Update: Extend FY21 H1 Usage and Claim periods into FY21 H2

Partners can now use and claim co-op funds from the FY21 H1 usage and claim periods in the FY21 H2 usage and claim periods. 

An Introduction to Cloud Adoption Framework

Perpetual software now available for the CSP program

As Microsoft announced in September, they are continuing to expand opportunities for partners in the Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) program and improve commerce capabilities to support customers and partners with a streamlined buying experience.

Update: CSP program evolution and Open License program changes

Journey to a better partner and customer experience.

Windows Virtual Desktop offer

New customers save 30 percent on Windows Virtual Desktop computing costs for D-series and Bs-series virtual machines for up to 90 days when using the native Microsoft solution. Redeem the offer directly in the Azure Portal before March 31, 2021.

Deep dive session on co-sell and commercial marketplace in Partner Center

To help your co-sell experience with Microsoft, we would like to invite you to an exclusive deep dive session on co-sell and commercial marketplace in Partner Center. The purpose of the session is to help you actively co-sell with Microsoft via Partner Center and to share the commercial marketplace opportunities.

The New Azure Stack HCI – Partner Readiness Bootcamp

Intel and Microsoft invite you to attend this virtual event focused on partner readiness for the new Azure Stack HCI.

Announcing the Digital Deal Desk​

A Microsoft NZ innovation to accelerate & land your Co-Sell deals​

You live by your code, now it’s time to level up

Accelerate web development with Azure and GitHub

7 Azure Cloud benefits for SMEs

There are well established rationales for moving to the Cloud, the benefits of which vary based on organisation size or objectives.

Start your technical consulting for: Azure, Business App, Modern Workplace

Request TP&D Technical Consultations

Azure Hybrid Benefit now generally available for Linux

Coinciding with this week’s Kubecon and Open Azure Day virtual events, today Microsoft have announced the general availability of Azure Hybrid Benefit functionality for Linux customers, allowing you to bring both your on-premises Windows Server and SQL Server licenses, as well as Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) or SUSE Linux Enterprise Server (SLES) subscriptions to Azure.

Microsoft Azure Security Deep-Dive | FY21Q2 | REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN!

The Microsoft Security Partner Development team would like to invite you to their Partner Azure Security Deep-Dive, 14-17 December, 15:00–20:00 GMT+13.

Join Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella: Shape Your Future with Azure Data and Analytics

Explore the future of data and analytics with Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella and other industry experts. We’ll show you how to create a flowing continuum of trusted, accurate data and timely, actionable insights.

Review: Xbox Series S is small and powerful – but needs more games

It's small, beautifully designed and packs an unbelievable amount of speed and power under the hood. But where are the games?

Microsoft Dynamics and Power Platform Virtual Training Days!

Get the skills you need in Dynamics 365 and Power Platform with free virtual training days and Fundamental certification exam vouchers.

Achieve more with Azure cloud – Download eBook

Migrating to a cloud platform like Azure is no longer an option, but a must to build resilience in the face of constant change.

Register Now! Biz Apps Partner R.U.N. Webinar – Dynamics365 & Power Platform

The APAC Business Applications R.U.N. (Readiness, Update, Networking) Webinar is a half-yearly event where Microsoft highlights important updates to Partners for Dynamics 365 & Power Platform.

Azure Webinar: Cloud Adoption Framework

17 November 2020 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM | (GMT+08:00) Kuala Lumpur, Singapore

Azure Immersion Workshop: AI

19 November 2020 | 10:00 AM - 01:30 PM | (GMT+08:00) Kuala Lumpur, Singapore

China vs U.S. tech, NZ’s broadband lead and PS5 vs Xbox

Paul Spain and Bill Bennett discuss the tech news of the week including talking about Hyperfibre, Apple, Microsoft, Huawei and more.

‘We’re obsessed’ – Why Umbrellar is going all in with Microsoft

A new SaaS platform being launched this week promises to shave months off business set-up times for aspiring Cloud Service providers - and save customers thousands of dollars as well.

MSP Azure Day (Partner Training event)

You are invited to a virtual bootcamp: Managed Service Provider (MSP) Azure Day, where we will be offering insights and resources to help MSP’s build and grow a successful cloud practice in Azure.

On-premises versus on-Cloud: Key differences, benefits and risks

The number one question our partners ask is - Which is the better option for business, on-premises or on-Cloud?

Upskilling your technical capabilities with Certification – SureCert program Oct-Dec 2020

Starting this quarter, we are launching SureCert for New Zealand to support our local Partner channel in upskilling and attaining Microsoft Certifications.

Webinar – Unlock new opportunities and grow your business more effectively within the CSP program

The next SureStep Ambassador Webinar on November 10th!

Microsoft CSP update – October 2020

Each month, we provide you with the latest Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) program information, launch news, updates, upcoming webinars, and more to help you drive efficiency, scale, and business growth.

Windows 10 is a mobile operating system – manage it like one

Managing Window 10 like a smartphone reduces the time spent setting up end users by 90%.

Hacking Apple, Dogs using Virtual Reality, NZ Government vs Encryption

A discussion of the tech news of the week with Paul Spain and Denis O’Shea (Mobile Mentor).

Compete. Learn. Win. Sign up for the Azure SQL Championship Today

John 'JG' Chirapurath Vice President, Azure Data, AI & Edge

What’s behind the cloud giants’ local infrastructure push?

Investments by Amazon and Microsoft point to a market with strong growth potential in the digital space, pandemic resilience and faith in our local networking infrastructure.

Microsoft Azure Virtual Training Days October

Get the information you need to understand the cloud.

Microsoft Sales Plays On-Ramp Program

Evolve your go-to-market plans and offerings and gain clarity on the end-to-end connections between sales and marketing efforts and a prioritised plan to stay on track to completion.

New Microsoft Teams Meeting and Calling Discounts for CSP

To help customers experience the best of what Microsoft Teams can offer in meetings and calling, Microsoft have announced new promotional offers with significant cost savings for CSP customers.

Make your case for the cloud – premade presentation template

Present your case for moving to the cloud

September 2020 Microsoft Partner Centre Announcements

A summary of the important announcements for Microsoft Partner Center for September 2020.

Microsoft Partner Virtual Training Series on Cloud Adoption Framework

Microsoft is launching a series of virtual training events focused on the Cloud Adoption Framework and the Well Architected Framework for you and your organisation to participate in.

Ignite 2020: Five key takeaways from Microsoft’s annual geekfest

Microsoft went fully virtual for Ignite 2020 which didn't stop the Redmond giant from releasing a stack of new product updates for everything from Azure to Teams to Power BI.

What is a Microsoft partner?

Partnership in the Microsoft Cloud - how can I do it?

Microsoft’s New Zealand CSPs – direct v indirect

Umbrellar is largely known as New Zealand's first provider of the Microsoft Azure Stack. Our Partner network also know us as their Cloud Solution Provider.

Umbrellar expands its service offerings and business with the power of composable infrastructure

Leading CSP becomes the first to offer Microsoft Azure Stack Hub services hosted in New Zealand.

Can Microsoft’s approach to regulation restore trust in facial recognition tech?

From facial recognition to electronic voting, Microsoft has made proactive moves to be part of the solution rather than waiting for regulators to move in.

Microsoft Azure-in-a-Day workshops

Help your customers develop their skills and uncover business growth opportunities by hosting one-day workshops on specific Azure products and workflows.

Remote work reaches tipping point – Microsoft Teams’ active daily users surges to 44 million

Microsoft Teams service – an Office 365 collaboration hub – is rapidly scaling at a faster rate than ever before, with the most recent numbers at more than 44 million daily users.

Bill Gates’ gearing focus to philanthropic over Microsoft

Microsoft co-founder and social technologist, Bill Gates, is stepping down from the company’s Board of Directors into a Technology Advisor role to concentrate more on his philanthropic initiatives, the company announced Friday afternoon.

A Vodafone NZ – Microsoft – Umbrellar partnership

Watch how Vodafone NZ, Microsoft and Umbrellar partnership is enabling digital transformation for New Zealand business.

‘Interactive sessions, expanded collaborative aims, big keyword push’ – a cloud engineer’s take on Microsoft’s Ignite 2019

At this year’s Microsoft Ignite conference, industry experts shared the latest and greatest in cloud and business development technology.

Why Microsoft’s data centre will mean big things for New Zealand’s future in the cloud

The impending launch of Microsoft’s first data centre in New Zealand promises greater opportunities for local businesses looking to scale.