Events

XPO Exhibitions to launch new trade fair

From February issue of NZ Manufacturer magazine XPO Exhibitions is partnering with Hannover Fairs Australia to launch Logistics Automation New Zealand, powered by CeMAT. This will be held from 10-11 November at the Auckland Showgrounds. The trade fair will bring together world-leading logistics, automation, robotics, intralogistics, warehousing, and supply chain management solutions under one roof. A new era for logistics innovation in New Zealand XPO’s Managing Director Brent Spillane says that with the rapid growth of high-tech logistics and automation, the time is right to give the sector its own dedicated platform. “We are seeing a transformational technology expansion and growth of products delivering Robotics, Automation, Intralogistics, Warehousing, Supply Chain Management and Materials Handling. This cutting-edge technology is changing rapidly, yet it’s becoming more accessible and affordable for industry to bolt-on products and enjoy instant gains in productivity.” CeMAT is a world-renowned leader of exhibitions in this space, with deep relationships across the biggest brands whose R&D is redefining logistics automation across the globe. As Mike Nissen Commercial Director of Hannover Fairs Australia explains “This Joint Venture partnership, introduces new international brands into New Zealand. Brands that loyally participate across CeMAT exhibitions in Germany, North America, Australia and Asia Pacific. “That international participation creates buzz and more value for domestic exhibiting brands – something we are evidencing in other markets we are entering.” XPO have traditionally served the Materials Handling & Logistics NZ sector most notably alongside Foodtech Packtech, and while that industry (food manufacturing) have been early adopters, XPO’s Managing Director Brent Spillane says the time has come to broaden the scope to all industries where automation can play a pivotal role in streamlining processes, driving efficiencies, and improving health and safety practices. He adds, “Logistics Automation New Zealand, powered by CeMAT brings together a far wider attendance of […]

The Learning Wave Free 90-minute taster: Accelerate team cohesion and performance in times of change

What happens when frontline teams are truly connected to each other and the business? You see fewer handovers going wrong, safer decisions on the floor, better problem-solving, issues owned and closed out properly, and people who actually speak up when something’s not right. This complimentary 90-minute taster gives manufacturing leaders a practical look at how that connection is built. Not through posters, slogans, or another toolbox talk, but through deliberate capability building where the work actually happens. In this session, we unpack what “connection” really means in an operational environment. You’ll see how trust, communication, confidence, and shared ownership show up in everyday behaviours that directly impact safety, quality, downtime, and productivity. We’ll share real examples of how frontline teams move from just turning up and completing tasks to thinking, contributing, and taking responsibility for outcomes. This is not theory and it’s not leadership jargon. It’s grounded in real manufacturing sites, real people, and real constraints like shift patterns, production pressure, and literacy challenges. If you’re an operational leader grappling with engagement, ownership, or change fatigue on the floor, this session will give you practical insight into what actually works, why it works, and how learning becomes the engine for performance, not a distraction from it. What you’ll experience in 90 Minutes: Across the 90 minutes, you’ll experience practical frameworks we use to accelerate team performance. You’ll explore a simple roadmap to identify where your team is at today and what it takes to move them forward, uncover how individual strengths build trust on the floor, and learn a clear, practical model for strengthening trust, accountability, and psychological safety. No cost. No fluff. Just insight that translates to performance. Click here to secure your spot: https://thelearningwave.com/free-taster-session-connecting-together-24th-feb-2026/ DATE: Tuesday 24th February, 2pm – 4pm VENUE: Level 3, 9 Hargreaves Street, Freeman’s […]

SouthMACH 2025 hailed as most successful event to date

From June 2025 issue of NZ Manufacturer magazine www.nzmanufacturer.co.nz SouthMACH 2025 has concluded with resounding success, marking the most impactful event since XPO acquired the brand in 2015. This year’s exhibition saw a record number of exhibitors and an impressive 22% increase in visitor attendance, highlighting the burgeoning strength of New Zealand’s manufacturing, engineering and technology sectors. The organisers extend their sincere gratitude to all exhibitors and visitors whose participation was instrumental in making SouthMACH such a dynamic and valuable experience. This year’s success would not have been possible without the invaluable support of SouthMACH’s esteemed partners and programme activators. A heartfelt thank you is extended to Catherine Lye from Advancing Manufacturing Aotearoa, Jane Finlayson from EMA, Dieter Adam from MAKE│NZ, John Hamilton from Business Canterbury, the University of Canterbury, Business South and Gina McMaster from IRHACE (HVAC&R South). Their continued collaboration is vital to the success of this event and the wider industry. Event highlights included Dawn Aerospace’s packed seminar, huge interest in the HamiltonJet HT1000, the launch of IRHACE’s HVAC&R South, and the inaugural Minister for Manufacturing Awards 2025, celebrating manufacturing excellence from apprentices to business leaders. Jack Heslin, sales and event manager for SouthMACH, commented on the event’s success, stating, “The success of SouthMACH 2025 is more than just numbers – it’s a clear signal that New Zealand’s manufacturing, engineering and technology sectors are gaining traction. A strong turnout from industry professionals, innovators and future talent reflects a sector that’s not only growing but also evolving.” He added, “I’m incredibly grateful to our partners, exhibitors and every single visitor who made SouthMACH 2025 such a vibrant and valuable event. Your support drives the future of manufacturing in Aotearoa.” Jack also expressed pride in the atmosphere of the event, remarking, “Seeing the Wolfbrook arena buzzing with energy, innovation […]

Manufacturing fuels the present – SouthMACH 2025 is on soon

From NZ Manufacturer magazine, April 2025 -Doug Green, Publisher Fisher and Paykel Healthcare, Gallagher Industries, Buckley Systems, Rocket Lab, Rakon, Skellerup Holdings, Particle Systems, Scott Technology…are just a few examples of successful companies who have found markets for their ‘home grown’ products and services. And they keep moving ahead in challenging times. www.smartmanufacturingtoday.com They are members of the Creative Class – to which so many of us belong – who help drive the economy. They are the people who role their sleeves up and get stuck in, in their workshops or studios, to make ‘the next best thing’ and find new markets for their unique products. At present, it is not only tariffs we need to keep an eye on, Generative AI (GenAI) is set to reshape manufacturing, driving innovative integration, operational efficiency, and data insights, transforming productivity and revenue. Distribution leaders will need to adopt AI, robotics, and IoT to enhance industry-specific processes, data, and ways of working. Ian Walsh, Partner, Argon and Co is big on Lean. And others don’t just talk Industry 4.0, they also talk Industry 5.0 These are all required for the efficiency of manufacturing. And of course, there is the urgent need to raise the levels of Productivity. This cant just be a never-ending conversation piece – we need to do something about it! Manufacturers will have to be prepared for the continued rise in competition from lower-cost production countries in Asia, including Vietnam, Thailand and China, along with more technologically advanced nations in Europe. The world and its markets are changing and our manufacturers need to adapt and move forward. Research the TIN Network, or the EMA, HERA, the Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce, the Southland Business Chamber, Make NZ or the Northland Chamber of Commerce. Join, find out what is going on […]

Inaugural Minister for Manufacturing Awards 2025 – enter now!

From March issue NZ Manufacturer magazine www.nzmanufacturer.co.nz NZ Manufacturer March 25 by Media Hawkes Bay Limited – Issuu The inaugural Minister for Manufacturing Awards 2025 have been launched to celebrate outstanding individuals and businesses driving productivity, workforce prosperity, and global competitiveness across New Zealand’s manufacturing sector. The launch marks a significant milestone in the growth of New Zealand’s manufacturing industry, highlighting its potential in an increasingly competitive global marketplace. However, many people are unaware of the immense potential and success within New Zealand’s manufacturing sector. It’s time to showcase the brilliance of New Zealand manufacturing. Let’s stand proud and be recognised for the incredible work we do. It’s time to make some noise! “The manufacturing sector is vital to New Zealand’s economic success. It drives productivity, supports technological progress, generates high-quality employment opportunities and underpins 60% of NZ’s exports,” said Catherine Lye, CEO of Advancing Manufacturing Aotearoa. “The Minister for Manufacturing Awards 2025 will inspire the next generation of talent and help boost the sector’s global competitiveness through investment in advanced technologies.” The awards will feature four key categories: Excellence in Process Innovation: Recognising innovative manufacturing processes that improve efficiency, sustainability, and product quality. Manufacturing Apprentice of the Year: Honouring an outstanding apprentice who shows exceptional promise and skill in the manufacturing industry Manufacturer of the Year: Awarded to a business demonstrating excellence in production, innovation, and overall contribution to the industry. Excellence in Manufacturing Leadership: Recognising leaders who have made a significant impact on their business and the industry through visionary leadership and strategic growth. <click here for Nomination Information Pack> and email Catherine – info@amanz.nz for the nomination form. Hon Chris Penk – Minister for Manufacturing will officiate the awards ceremony on 28th May 2025 at SouthMach Christchurch, the South […]

Balancing innovation and growth

-Adan Sharman, Senior Partner, Dsifer The EMEX Exhibition happens every other year at the Auckland Showgrounds and is both a chance for vendors to showcase the latest in manufacturing technology, systems and services, but also an opportunity for the industry to comes together to share perspectives on the challenges facing the industry, and the opportunities available through evolutions in approaches, technologies and markets. The 2024 edition of the EMEX Exhibition was no exception. Following on from the highly attended 2022 edition as the industry came together for the first time since the COVID pandemic, this year’s event had a more grounded feel to it as vendors and manufacturers alike seek to balance innovation and growth for the long term with capital and market constraints in the short term. One notable change since 2022 was the presence of New Zealand’s first minister for manufacturing, Andrew Bayly. Whilst it is still early days in the establishment of the portfolio, the fact that the industry now has ministerial representation is seen as a positive development as New Zealand struggles to keep pace with the investment in the industry that is being demonstrated overseas. Whilst there may have been little directly for manufacturers to shout about in the May budget (announced on the final day of the exhibition), Minister Bayly has indicated some positive moves already, notably an extension of the Smart Industry Readiness Assessment funding to support manufacturers identify opportunities for acceleration through the adoption of industry 4.0 technologies. This visibility of the industry at the ministerial level was welcomed by the exhibitors and visitors to EMEX this year. However, in speaking with attendees, the focus remains on navigating through a challenging economic environment, whilst not limiting potential future growth and agility for the long term. Whilst every business has its own context, […]

EMEX 2024 – One company’s reflections

From June issue, NZ Manufacturer www.nzmanufacturer.co.nz -Des Pitfield, Datum Machines, Lower Hutt The Datum Machines stand was the result of 11 months of design and prototyping. The last three months were very intense and at times very challenging. We learned a lot and realised some of our business processes and engineering production will need to change going forward. But that’s how we learn. As the crated machine left Waiwhetu on a Mainfreight Truck heading to Auckland, Zak commented that there was 11 months of our lives in that box. We have had a great deal of support over the last eight months or so with other small businesses helping and wanting to see Zak succeed. They recognised his determination, design talent and self-taught engineering skills which have resulted in the finished DGM-S1 Gantry Mill CNC machine. Support from others like Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce and NZ Manufacturer magazine wanting gave Zak’s business exposure to help get the machine out there. Exhibiting at the EMEX Engineering and Mechanical trade show was an expensive exercise and such a venture always costs a big percentage more than what you first imagine. The stand alone was $11K but I think all up it would have cost us at least $16,000, probably more. Zak, his sister Jax and Des Pitfield. That said, the show was a great success. The contacts made with other NZ businesses, potential suppliers, future collaborators, as well as prospective customers was worth it alone. Everyone was impressed with the DGM-S1 and even more impressed to realise it has been Aotearoa New Zealand designed and manufactured. Pretty much single handed by Zak. Other exhibitors of CNC machines came by to check it out and meet Zak. They recognised and commented on the machines look and build quality. They congratulated Zak and […]

Mulcahy Engineering and Epicor comment on EMEX 2024

How did you find EMEX 2024? Kayne Mulcahy, Managing Director, Mulcahy Engineering Graeme Evans, Regional Vice President (ANZ), Epicor Kayne Mulcahy, Managing Director, Mulcahy Engineering: This was our ninth time exhibiting at EMEX, with our first being back in 2007. It is always great to reconnect with existing and potentially new customers, suppliers and business partners directly. Having the opportunity to share knowledge and experiences with industry peers is also an invaluable outcome of the show. Graeme Evans, Regional Vice President (ANZ), Epicor: We support manufacturers across Australasia to optimise their end-to-end operations through enterprise resource planning (ERP) solutions that deliver real-time intelligence. EMEX 2024 was a terrific opportunity for us and a wide variety of individuals and organisations to collaborate around the themes of engineering, manufacturing technology and electronics. As the largest trade show of its kind in New Zealand, it is integral for cultivating relationships and fostering a culture of innovation and growth, driving the entire sector forward. Was the energy positive, potential for sales? Mulcahy: There was a really positive energy amongst both exhibitors and attendees at this years show, which is pleasing considering the current economic conditions faced by many. A real sense that businesses are feeling that we may be past the bottom of the cycle and are looking forward to the climb back up to a more favourable trading environment. Evans: EMEX has now been in operation for more than 40 years – an incredible milestone. There were more than 200 exhibitors and an estimated 5,000 buyers in attendance. Naturally, there is always potential to drive sales at EMEX, but Epicor’s priority for the three-day event was to meet with our existing customers and establish new relationships with organisations that we can empower in the short and long term. How are you finding present […]

Harm reduction to take centre stage at EMEX 2024

From May issue, NZ Manufacturer magazine The Employers and Manufacturers Association (EMA) says it will be using its presence at EMEX 2024 this month to promote the urgent need for manufacturers to work together to help improve the sector’s health and safety record. EMA Head of Advanced Manufacturing Jane Finlayson says that the manufacturing sector has one of the country’s highest rates of workplace injury and there has not been the improvement in workplace harm that has been seen in other sectors such as construction and primary industries. “Simply put, too many manufacturing workers are being harmed at work. In fact, you are twice as likely to be injured working in a manufacturing environment in New Zealand than you are in Australia, and the economic and social cost is too high,” says Jane. “Every year there are about 30,000 injuries in the manufacturing sector and ACC pays out $50 million for acute injuries resulting in more than 240,000 lost workdays. But it’s not just about the economic costs. Each injury can have an impact on an individual, a family, and a community, “It also has a huge business impact, affecting productivity and morale. No one wants to see an employee, or a colleague, injured or seriously hurt at work. “That is why we’ve launched Project Whakahaumaru with support from ACC. This project aims to bring the sector together to develop a five-year action plan to reduce harm and improve the health, safety, and wellness of everyone working in manufacturing. Jane says the team are looking forward to engaging with manufacturers at EMEX to hear their ideas and encourage them to get involved in the project and share their experiences. “We don’t pretend to have the answers. The reasons for the high rates of harm in manufacturing are complex and, to […]

EMEX is a big deal…

May issue, NZ Manufacturer includes our second Preview of EMEX 2024. Click on the link below to read. Because it is the premier trade fair in the country for the manufacturing sector. Where visitors can see the best of the best all in one place. An example of an exhibitor is Datum Machines Ltd of Wellington, a manufacturer, who has been designing and engineering over 18 months the Series One Gantry Mill CNC machine from the ground up. NZ Manufacturer May 2024 by Media Hawkes Bay Limited – Issuu This machine is for companies wanting to add CNC automation to their production workflow and increase productivity. At an extremely competitive price. A labour of love, devotion and lots of money, the machine, an example of great Kiwi ingenuity, is on display at EMEX 2024, on Stand 4115. As much as it is an event to discuss business – buying or selling, export opportunities etc – it also benefits visitors who want to discuss industry trends and share stories of success. New Zealand has a rich history of inventions and product development, something that became clear to me a little while back when I produced for this show’s organisers a History of Manufacturing in New Zealand document which went back as far as the early 1900’s. Today’s innovators, using different technologies and equipment, manufacturing for the needs of the times, have a rich history to fall back on, on the path to success. So, let’s keep manufacturing strong. We certainly do have our challenges in today’s environment. But they are only challenges. We adapt, we change, we keep moving forward. We keep making the next ‘big thing.’ -Doug Green, Publisher

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