Events

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

Embracing the Future: How Digital Twin Technology Can Accelerate Manufacturing Operations

From May issue, NZ Manufacturer magazine www.nzmanufacturer.co.nz -Adam Sarman, Senior Partner, Dsifer In an industry in which flexibility, agility and innovation are no longer competitive advantages, but tickets to the game, the ability to make responsive, agile decisions, predict future requirements and innovate without impacting operations are critical. In this dynamic industry context, digital twin technology has emerged as an important but underutilised technology. Digital twins are software models that represent the attributes and operating behaviour of physical assets, product designs and/or processes. They support better decision making by simulating how these applications behave given certain inputs. A digital twin’s ability to enable progressive learning and capture tacit knowledge provides a key, differentiating benefit: it stores and structures information in a way engineers and operators can understand. Digital twins, are reshaping how products are designed, manufactured, and optimised across all process and design-drive industries. Three key applications of digital twin technologies are process optimisation through simulation, product design simulation, factory/operation design and predictive maintenance. Process Optimisation: Enhancing Efficiency and Accuracy Process simulation lies at the heart of manufacturing and supply-chain optimisation, and digital twins provide an unparalleled platform for achieving this. By creating virtual replicas of production processes, manufacturers can simulate and analyse operations in real-time, enabling them to identify bottlenecks, optimise workflows, and improve efficiency. For instance, in automotive manufacturing, digital twins are used to simulate assembly lines, allowing manufacturers to test different layouts and production scenarios before implementation. Moreover, by integrating IoT sensors and data analytics, manufacturers can collect real-time data from equipment and processes, feeding it into the digital twin for predictive maintenance and continuous improvement. Product Design: Accelerating Innovation and Iteration Digital twins play a crucial role in product design by enabling engineers to create virtual prototypes and simulate their performance under various conditions. This […]

The relentless pursuit of “Better, Faster, Smarter”

-Catherine Lye, CEO, Advanced Manufacturing Aotearoa Having arrived late to the viewing of the latest Netflix series, “Drive to Survive,” I couldn’t help but notice the striking parallels between Formula One and our manufacturing/engineering industry. Both embody precision engineering, composites, CNC Machining, additive manufacturing, artificial intelligence, and, crucially, teamwork. Manufacturing is a team sport. Across manufacturing, achieving industry “fit for purpose” embodies the essential quest to align skills with the sector’s dynamic purpose-driven landscape. This necessitates a concerted effort towards upskilling the workforce, ensuring that competencies seamlessly merge with the industry’s fast-changing needs and objectives. Whether embracing advanced technologies, sustainable practices, or fostering innovation, being “fit” demands a workforce adept at navigating the intricate demands of a purpose-driven business. From mastering cutting-edge machinery to embracing sustainable production methods, the journey towards industry fitness entails a commitment to continuous learning and adaptation. Ultimately, by cultivating a workforce equipped with the right skills and mindset, manufacturing can assert its relevance, efficacy, and sustainability in fulfilling its broader purpose within the global economy – economic development, driving productivity, employment, a vehicle for social development, entrepreneurship and wealth creation. Fostering innovation and technological advancement, acting as a catalyst for progress across various sectors, driving growth and enhancing societal well-being on a local, regional and global scale. We must reimagine manufacturing for the next generation. They are the future drivers of our factories. Younger people are seeking problems to solve. You hear stories about them wanting to be YouTube SuperStars, Influencers, but they are just as serious as well as anyone else about earning good money and doing what they can to change and make a difference in the world. Manufacturing presents an intriguing and interesting career choice for them – a change to innovate and solve problems in new ways. To ensure industry competitiveness, […]

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