About
Turning emerging technology potential into confident performance.
Binary Refinery is an independent emerging technology advisory based in Aotearoa New Zealand.
We help organisations evaluate and use new technologies, AI and modern digital tools safely, strategically, and in ways that genuinely support their people and processes.
Our approach is practical and human-centred. We translate complex technology into simple, actionable steps that improve workflows, reduce risk, and unlock meaningful efficiency - without jargon, hype, or unnecessary complexity.
We don’t build AI systems or sell software. We help you understand what’s worth adopting, what to avoid, and how to use technology and AI in ways that are safe, manageable, and aligned with your goals.
Binary Refinery works with professional services, SMEs, not-for-profits and public-sector organisations across Aotearoa - guiding each through their own journey of digital improvement, from clarity to capability and from potential to performance.
How We Work
Clear. Human. Practical. Independent.
At Binary Refinery, we help organisations use emerging technology safely, strategically, and in ways that actually make work better. No hype. No jargon. No pushing tools you don’t need. Our approach is simple:
We Scope Before We Solve
We start with conversations, not assumptions. Before recommending anything, we deeply understand your workflows, systems, data, and people. Good decisions come from clarity - not guesswork.
We Build Safety, Privacy & Responsible Use In From Day One
Every recommendation considers privacy, security, risk, and responsible AI. You get guardrails, not surprises - and decisions you can confidently stand behind.
We Recommend What’s Practical, Not What’s Flashy
We’re vendor-neutral and commission-free. Our advice is grounded in business reality, team capability, and long-term maintainability. Sometimes the best solution is a small tweak, not a new platform.
We Bring In Specialists Only When Needed
You get one strategic partner - with access to expertise only when the work genuinely requires it. No unnecessary tech builds. No bloated project teams.
We Focus on People, Adoption & Confidence
Technology only works when people feel supported. We help your team build skills, follow safe practices, and use tools in consistent, real-world ways.
We Stay With You As Your Needs Evolve
Tech changes fast. We stick around as your independent adviser - refining, updating and guiding as your organisation grows and the landscape shifts.
Who We Work With
Binary Refinery partners with organisations that value clarity, independence, and practical, business-led advice. Our work resonates most with leaders who want to make confident technology decisions without jargon, complexity, or vendor pressure.
Leadership Teams Who Want Clear Direction
We work best with CEOs, GMs and senior leaders who prefer plain language, practical steps, and guidance they can take to their board with confidence.
Organisations Ready to Modernise and Improve How They Work
From growing companies to organisations streamlining processes or updating systems, we help leaders bring structure, alignment and purpose to their technology environment.
Businesses Without Large Internal IT Functions
Many of our clients don’t have a CIO or CTO. Technology decisions often fall to operations, finance or the CEO - and we fill that strategic gap with independent, high-quality advice.
Professional and Purpose-Led Organisations
We align naturally with organisations that value thoughtful decision-making, responsible technology use, strong governance and practical, people-first change.
If You Value Clarity and Independence, We’ll Be a Good Fit
You don’t need perfect data or cutting-edge systems - just a desire to use technology in ways that support your strategy, not complicate it.
If that sounds like you, let’s talk.
Kia ora
I’m Kat - part strategist, part tech translator, and someone who genuinely enjoys turning complex ideas into something humans can actually use.
I started Binary Refinery after seeing too many organisations overwhelmed by new tools, glossy vendor promises, and “AI-everything” hype. Most leaders want the same thing: technology that’s safe, strategic, useful, and actually fits the way their people work. That’s where I come in.
My background spans marketing, technology, digital transformation, and leading teams across New Zealand - backed by an MBA from Canterbury University and years of helping organisations navigate growth and change. I don’t sell products or push vendors. My focus is simple: help organisations make smart decisions, build capability, and adopt emerging tech safely and strategically.
Outside of work, you’ll usually find me running one of the many beautiful trails around New Zealand. And when I’m not on foot, I’m probably on a motor - racing my partner on the track or the water.
Binary Refinery is my way of making tech more human, more strategic, and far less overwhelming. If that sounds like what your organisation needs, let’s talk.
Ngā mihi,
Kat Mac
Our Values
Our values guide everything we do - how we work, how we make decisions, and how we help others navigate change. They keep Binary Refinery grounded, human, and focused on what matters most.
Be Honest
Say what’s true, even when it’s hard. We give clear, transparent advice - never jargon or hype.
Be Curious
Keep learning, exploring, and improving. Technology evolves daily, and so do we.
Be Accountable
We take responsibility for the decisions we make, the advice we give, and the ethical, privacy-conscious use of technology.
Be Human
Human dignity comes first. We work with care, championing safe, thoughtful use of technology that protects people and minimises harm.
Be Clear
Elegance in simplicity. We cut through complexity to find clarity, focus, and results.