Manufacturing Technology

Blending artistry with automation for strategic advantage

-Scott Adams, Argon & Co Manufacturing companies in New Zealand are most often owned, managed, and operated by engineers and therefore they often lack artistry, passion, and flair. I readily, and happily, accept there are exceptions to this statement, but for every exception there are 10 more that focus on precision, performance, and cost. Is this a problem? Sometimes it is, because we miss the opportunity of producing something wonderful rather than something utilitarian, but also because it limits opportunity and commercial outcomes. If we build a low-cost focused, and therefore often automated, manufacturing capability without creativity then it is very difficult to be innovative with product design and it therefore limits our ability to adapt to a changing market or to create opportunity in a new market. I frequently hear that the only reason a product has changed is because the client required it. This is satisfactory for many of our smaller national or regionally focused manufacturing companies as there are significant obstacles to change: there is not enough space, inflexible machinery, or people are scared to try something different. But if we were to examine a list of the NZ manufacturing companies that have been successful globally and nationally, it would be full of companies that have blended artistry with automation, admittedly in industry sectors where that combination is encouraged, which is generally high-value niche products. Another smaller list of successful companies will show they have primarily focused on the artistry. However, we have very few low-cost automation manufacturing companies producing volume that have been successful, primarily because there are too many barriers to be globally, let alone nationally, successful due to our small population and high labour costs. So, if there are benefits in blending automation with artistry then what steps would I take? I’d argue that […]

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Living in an apartment, near the railway line

On a business trip, I travelled on the Tokaido Shinkansen Bullet Train between Tokyo and Nagoya and, was taken by the number of apartments along the side of the track, at Bullet Train speed. And they all had one thing in common on their balcony: a dog kennel, a satellite dish, plants and clothes lines. Nowhere to walk, no ground level space to kick a ball around. I wonder what the thinking is around 15 storey apartment buildings around the new Auckland railway stations? Is it to ensure the trains have patronage and the huge spend on their development justified? The Government wants Auckland Council to make apartments possible. “Ensuring that Auckland takes economic advantage of this transformational investment in the city”. I wonder how many Government ministers will move there? Apartment buildings can bring problems – lots of people in a built-up area without social cohesion, finding ways to get into each other’s way and an over familiarity with one’s neighbours which doesn’t necessarily lead to a quality of life. The economic advantages for engineers, architects, developers, interior decorating consultants and so on will be great. And may also continue to see trades people in Auckland continue to have work instead of crossing the ditch to Australia. If people live in a large city, they need a quality of life for day-by-day accessibility to work, education and social events. But why live in a large city, in an apartment, by a railway line? Why not move to the regions where you have greater choices of more competitively priced housing and greenfields where the family can play? -Doug Green, Publisher, NZ Manufacturer www.nzmanufacturer.co.nz publisher@xtra.co.nz

Industry 4.0 for SME manufacturers

Article 4 – from a series of 5 – From June issue, NZ Manufacturer magazine www.nzmanufacturer.co.nz -Frank Phillips, Director, Fulcrum Article 4: The Significance of Systems in Industry 4.0 and Automation Welcome to the next part of our Industry 4.0 series for SME manufacturer. We’re exploring various companies that can help you embrace advanced technologies and optimize your operations. Today’s focus: Manufacturing Systems. Let’s dive in and see how they can drive your business success. Systems: The Backbone of Modern Manufacturing In the dynamic landscape of Industry 4.0, systems are the backbone that supports and streamlines manufacturing operations. These companies specialize in providing software solutions such as ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning), MES (Manufacturing Execution Systems), CMMS (Computerised Maintenance Management Systems), APS (Advanced Planning and Scheduling), and various other tools designed to solve challenges and manage processes more effectively. Think of them as the digital frameworks that enable smooth and efficient manufacturing processes. Streamlining Operations: How Systems Add Value Manufacturers often grapple with issues like disjointed processes, lack of visibility, and inefficient resource management. Engaging a systems provider can address these challenges by implementing software solutions that integrate and optimize various aspects of manufacturing operations. By leveraging these systems, manufacturers can achieve better coordination, real-time visibility, and enhanced decision-making capabilities. Implementing Success: Typical Engagement and Resource Requirements The journey with a systems provider typically begins with a comprehensive assessment of your existing processes and systems. This phase involves site visits, technical evaluations, and collaborative discussions to identify pain points and opportunities for improvement. The systems provider then establishes to what extent their solution meets requirements, the optimal configuration and any customisation that might be required. Expect to allocate internal resources, including IT personnel, process engineers, and operations managers, to work closely with the systems provider. The engagement would typically take several […]

SouthMACH 2025: Capability Is still the differentiator

From June issue, NZ Manufacturer magazine www.nzmanufacturer.co.nz Review from Caliber Design There was a strong sense of optimism at SouthMACH this year. The energy was good. People were open, engaged, and proud of the work they’re doing. Yes, there are still challenges—but the general feeling was that things are picking up, and that real progress is being made. Capability remains a key issue. “We’ve got the ideas. We just don’t have the resource.” The work is there. Priorities are clear. But teams are at capacity. There’s limited room to take on more—let alone deliver faster. Shifting the Dial Whether the focus is production, upgrades, product development, or compliance—it takes people to get things done. Not just more hands, but the right experience, at the right time. At SouthMACH, there was strong interest in how to keep momentum without overloading internal teams. Many are turning to flexible engineering support—people who can step in, contribute from day one, and help shift the dial. The common thread? Capability isn’t just about technical knowledge. It’s about judgement, communication, adaptability, and the ability to work well on-site, under pressure, and in step with the wider team. What We Noticed Amidst the usual challenges—capacity, backlog, deadlines—there was also a clear sense of optimism. Many have weathered tough years and come through more focused. Some of the best conversations we had were about what’s working: building long-term partnerships that help teams flex as needed; investing in project engineering—not just design, but full delivery; and embedding engineers into existing teams to remove bottlenecks and keep work flowing. We also asked our team: “What was the most exciting innovation or product you came across during the event?” The answers were varied—but all pointed to practical, clever engineering solving real problems. Dawn Aerospace stood out to several engineers—not just […]

Page Macrae’s new Port Products hopper a game-changer for materials bulk handling

From June issue of NZ Manufacturer magazine. Page Macrae Engineering is one of New Zealand’s most respected heavy engineering fabrication companies, with a legacy spanning more than six decades. Based in Mount Maunganui, the company was founded in 1955 and has built a reputation for large-scale projects in tank and piping fabrication for the energy, pulp and paper and water-treatment sectors; log and dry bulk solid handling equipment for ship loading and unloading; bulk storage for fuel and chemicals; and manufacture of forestry equipment. At the helm of Page Macrae is CEO Alan Sutcliffe, whose leadership has recently helped steer the company into new international markets. The Employers and Manufacturers Association’s Nicholas Russell sat down with Alan to discuss the company’s new world-leading hopper, which sparked huge interest during a recent sales trip to Europe. Can you tell us about your recent product launch and how it was received internationally? We recently launched our new Bulk Master Smart Dock Hopper in Mount Maunganui at an event attended by the Prime Minister and some of his Ministers. It’s a hopper full of smart technology that is designed to suppress dust emissions during bulk cargo unloading from ships. Traditional hoppers create large dust plumes, which harm the environment. Our design includes a vacuum system that captures the dust as cargo is released into the hopper and is automated, so operators can control the system remotely without having to be in a hazardous environment. We previewed the product at a conference in Australia recently, which had strong attendance from European buyers. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Based on that, we decided to test the product in the European market by attending the Breakbulk event in Rotterdam in May. That trip validated that our product fills a gap not currently met in the Northern […]

Have you optimised your asset care strategy?

-Ian Walsh, Partner, Argon & Co NZ It’s great to see the recent government announcements allowing additional tax deduction for new assets, which will encourage business to invest in plants and equipment to help drive productivity. These are all a step in the right direction for making New Zealand’s manufacturing sector more competitive on a global stage. With that said, any investment should be reviewed in terms of the cost and benefit, and the overall business case for making it. When I worked in Japan the approach taken was to drive efficiency and productivity until you had exhausted the potential of your existing assets. The aim was to get the absolute maximum possible out of all the equipment and space available, and only then to invest in extra capacity. This led to a relentless focus on efficiency and debottlenecking to get the most reliable, most productive assets. I remember a conversation I had with a production manager at one of these Japanese plants. He explained to me how he disliked new equipment, as “the first day was the worst day”, and it got better after that. He preferred older equipment because “we know everything about it and how to run it highly efficiently”. This is interesting to compare with more ‘Western’ approaches where we assume that new equipment is at its best on its first day and then we depreciate it, because it’s deteriorating and will only perform worse from then! The difference is that the better performing factories don’t only invest in new capital when they need capacity (or to meet an innovation need); they invest in the total asset. This includes how it is commissioned, optimising it for its role, how it is run, how it’s maintained, care for its individual parts, how people are trained to operate […]

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 […]

Christchurch manufacturing trade fair to create opportunities

NZ Manufacturer, a Media Partner for SouthMACH 2025, extends best wishes to exhibitors at the show, commencing today in Christchurch. In challenging economic times we look for the best equipment and services to keep our companies ahead of the game; or at least, breaking even. There is no one simple answer to the market forces of today; the best we can do is be prepared to seize the opportunity when it arises, using the technology essential for success. Mixing with peers, discussing these opportunities and sharing secrets of success are also what trade fairs are about. The challenges your company may be facing are not unique, lots of companies are currently facing them. Creating a mutual support society is part of the battle…the other is runs on the board. It is in-board, in workshops, in brain-storming sessions on the floor. Reach out to us at www.nzmanufacturer.co.nz or email publisher@xtra.co.nz if your company has a story from SouthMACH 2025 you would like to share. Your observations on the event itself or where you see manufacturing’s future are subjects we are interested in hearing about. Best Wishes for a rewarding two days to your company. D J Green, Publisher, NZ Manufacturer magazine 027 625 6166

Investing for growth

The Budget’s Investment Boost is a tax incentive for businesses to invest in productive assets such as machinery, tools and equipment. This means business can deduct 20 per cent of a new asset’s value from that year’s taxable income, on top of normal depreciation. Because the cashflow from investment improves, more investment opportunities become financially viable and therefore more take place. Business investment can raise the productivity of workers, lifts incomes and drive long-term economic growth. However, businesses, following this path, need some predictability. That a reasonable investment will bring about a return. That their equipment purchases will help their businesses grow. I take it that by increasing the stock of capital in New Zealand, Investment Boost is expected to lift GDP by 1 per cent per year and wages by 1.5 per cent per year over the next twenty years, with half these gains in the next five years. Investment Boost makes New Zealand a more attractive place to invest. It gives businesses facing global uncertainty a reason to keep investing in themselves and in the future of New Zealand. It seems that large-scale businesses with established markets can continue to build their markets. There is also Invest New Zealand to encourage investment in infrastructure. This would be a welcome change from investment in property …let’s keep making and growing things!

Is your value network world class?

Over the last 40 years I have seen significant change in how manufacturing businesses compete. We have moved through the quality revolution which brought new expectations around quality and cost, to the lean revolution and associated methodologies delivering better service, value and reduced costs. Businesses then shifted their focusses onto supply chain optimisation, bringing end-to-end thinking. Their approaches moved from comparing their business models with their competitors’, to comparing their supply chains. Top performing supply chains became enabled by ERPs, and are now enabled by value networks, no longer in point-to-point structures but integrated webs of suppliers and partners delivering products and services seamlessly through a multitude of channels. Of course, the rapidly increasing deployment of AI further fuels optimisation and connectedness in these supply chains. At the root of this change in manufacturing are constantly moving market-led goalposts for how businesses better deliver what the end customer wants, when they want it, at the lowest cost possible. Understanding this value equation and then aligning their service delivery model to meet and exceed this expectation better than competition is what separates the wheat from the chaff, and industry leaders are doing this at the most competitive cost to maximise their margins. Very few, if any, businesses can do all of this by themselves. Generally, larger businesses with more scale, buying power, and connections have more capability than SMEs. However, interconnected SMEs can create highly efficient clusters which can compete with anyone and be highly agile and scalable. As we know NZ has a high proportion of SMEs and this presents both an opportunity and a risk. The opportunity is that we can create high-value clusters and that can be highly agile, integrated and capable of delivering high-value products and services through multiple channels to customers around the world. We certainly […]

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