From May issue of NZ Manufacturer magazine. We celebrate this outstanding achievement.

Chemz: 100 Seasons of Kiwi Innovation and Loyalty A New Zealand-owned success story built on quality, loyalty, and a commitment to solutions that work for Kiwi industries – celebrates 25 year anniversary.

-John Berry

The Chemz story begins more than 100 seasons ago, on the other side of the world. In 1964, during my OE, I entered the petroleum industry just as marine seismic surveys were beginning to shape the future of energy exploration.

Working with Western Geophysical Co. of America, and later with Shell Australia, I gained hands-on experience across the Mediterranean, Gulf States, and Australia.

After a decade abroad, I returned home to New Zealand and helped establish an American industrial aerosol brand that soon became a household name. However, when that company shifted from family ownership to corporate control, I knew it was time to step away.

Whilst farming in Central Hawke’s Bay offered a refreshing change, it sparked a new vision: the idea of creating a New Zealand-owned aerosol company designed for Kiwi industries and Kiwi conditions.

In 2000, that vision became reality. Chemz was formed after discussions with a group of national distributors seeking a new supplier committed to quality, consistency, and genuine service.

After working closely with raw material suppliers, industrial chemists, and manufacturing partners, we launched Chemz with just nine products and a simple philosophy: Do it properly, or not at all.

Fast forward to today, and Chemz now offers a range of over 100 premium products across the electrical, industrial, automotive, forestry, food, and paint sectors.

We continue to develop solutions that meet the tough demands of New Zealand’s climate and industries—because what works overseas doesn’t always work here.

Chemz operates from our purpose-built facility in the Whakatu Industrial Area of Hawke’s Bay. Our partnership with Pacific Aerosols ensures we maintain full control over manufacturing standards, while our team of experienced sales staff, based in the North and South Islands, provide on-the-ground support to distributors and end users across the country.

From the beginning, we have built Chemz on a few core principles: quality without compromise, loyalty to our partners, and products that genuinely make the job easier.

Every Chemz product is developed with a clear focus—whether it’s rapid drying brake cleaner for the workshop, heavy-duty lubricants for forestry, or food-grade options for manufacturing plants.

This commitment to quality and service has allowed Chemz to quietly, but confidently, challenge large multinational brands. We have achieved this not through flashy campaigns, but through consistency, long-term relationships, and a genuine belief in supporting the local market.

Distributors know they can rely on Chemz to deliver a product that performs, backed by a company that understands their challenges.

In a world where business relationships can often feel transactional, Chemz remains proud of the loyalty we share with our customers. Many of our distributor partners have been with us since day one, and that speaks volumes about the value of mutual trust and genuine collaboration.

As we move forward, Chemz remains committed to staying true to its roots: New Zealand owned, quality focused, and always innovating. Because while much has changed in the last 100 seasons, one thing remains the same—the best way to succeed is to back your customers and back your country.

Chemz – Made for New Zealand. Built to Last.