This is the first of a series of special interest indices it plans to develop. NZX head of products Geoff Brown says the sector has been a quiet achiever with many firms succeeding overseas.

"Liquidity of the stocks included in this Index has been variable, influenced to no small degree by the lack of public profile in our local markets. We have hard evidence that international investors recognise the value of New Zealand science and technology innovators. It's about time New Zealand investors got in on the action,"

The list includes: A2 Corporation, BLIS Technologies, Botry-Zen, Cadmus Technology, Comvita, Connexionz, Fisher & Paykel Healthcare, Finzsoft Solutions, Genesis Research & Development Corporation, ICP Biotechnology, Livestock Improvement Corporation, Mooring Systems, Pacific Edge Biotechnology, Plus SMS Holdings, Provenco Group, Rakon, Renaissance Corporation, Scott Technology, Sealegs Corporation, Software of Excellence International, Wellington Drive Technologies, Windflow Technology, and Wool Equities.