Smart Manufacturing Today

Engineering capacity when and where you need it

Celebrating 10 Years of Caliber Design at SouthMach 2025 Caliber Design is turning 10—and we’re marking the occasion at SouthMach 2025 with a celebration that reflects who we are: practical, people-focused, and project-driven. Visit us at Booth 135 for a slice of birthday cake and go in the draw to win a $1,000 Christchurch Adventure Park voucher. While you’re there, we’d love to talk about how we can help you scale your mechanical engineering capacity, flexibly and efficiently. We’re not a consultancy. We’re not a contractor. Caliber is something different—a secondment-based engineering firm with a growing team of over 60 mechanical engineers working with businesses across New Zealand. We embed engineers directly into your team, on-site or remote, to provide the horsepower you need to get projects across the line. Whether you’re navigating a peak workload, filling a short-term skills gap, or moving a major capital project forward, our engineers are there when and where you need them. From machine design and product development to FEA and project engineering, our team has deep, practical experience across a wide range of industries—from automation and manufacturing to food processing, aerospace, and advanced materials handling. What Makes Caliber Unique? What sets Caliber apart isn’t just our model—it’s our people. We carefully select engineers who bring the right mix of technical ability, communication skills, adaptability, and professionalism. We back them with systems, mentors, and processes that ensure they deliver value quickly. And we stay involved—checking in regularly, monitoring progress, and making sure the secondment is working for everyone. When you engage a Caliber engineer, you don’t just get that one person—you tap into the entire Caliber network. That’s 350+ years of collective experience, shared knowledge, and access to a powerful library of proven templates and systems. As one client put it, “Caliber engineers don’t […]

Chemz: Built on experience, Powered by Kiwi loyalty

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 […]

Article 2: The Crucial Role of System Integrators in Industry 4.0 and Automation

-Frank Phillips, Director, Fulcrum Welcome to the next part of our Industry 4.0 series for SME manufacturers. We’re exploring various companies that can help you embrace advanced technologies and optimise your operations. Today’s focus: System Integrators. Let’s dive in and see how they can drive your business success. System Integrators: The Orchestrators of Connectivity In the realm of Industry 4.0 and automation, system integrators are the maestros who ensure that all the pieces of your technological puzzle work seamlessly together. These companies specialise in connecting various automated systems, ensuring smooth communication and integration between hardware and software components. They act as the bridge that links different technologies, creating a harmonious and efficient manufacturing environment. Maximising Efficiency: How System Integrators Add Value Engaging a system integrator can significantly enhance your manufacturing operations by ensuring that all automated systems and technologies work in unison. Manufacturers facing challenges like disjointed processes, data silos, and inefficiencies can benefit greatly from the expertise of system integrators. By creating a unified system, these professionals help optimise workflows, reduce downtime, and improve overall productivity. System Integrators tend to have significant cyber security knowledge. When establishing a wider Operational Technology (OT) environment they can be key partners to keep your business secure. Journey to Integration: Typical Engagement and Resource Requirements The process of working with a system integrator typically begins with an assessment of your existing systems and a thorough understanding of your integration goals. This phase involves site visits, technical evaluations, and collaborative discussions to identify integration opportunities and challenges. The system integrator then designs a customized integration plan tailored to your specific needs. Expect to allocate internal resources, including IT personnel, operations managers, and system administrators, to collaborate with the system integrator. The engagement can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the […]

Remanufacturing 101: Reviving parts, reclaiming value

The remanufacturing market unlocks opportunity across sectors for higher margins, affordability, and supply chain resilience. Remanufacturing, the process of restoring used parts to give them a second life, has propelled into the spotlight in recent years by attempts to mitigate supply chain shortages, reach new customers through affordability, and search for high-margin alternatives for parts. Both independent remanufacturing companies and remanufacturing arms within OEMs have proved essential for efficiently restoring parts and creating a way to lower expenses while making operations more efficient. These players provide value across multiple industries, from the well-established space in the automotive sector to more emergent opportunities across sectors such as medical devices and electronics. All of these sectors can benefit from reduced dependence on raw materials, extended product life cycles, and more. But remanufacturing is an inherently complex process, and the industry faces unique challenges. For example, remanufacturers grapple with the unpredictable availability, quantity, and quality of incoming used parts (referred to as “core”), complex pricing due to the volume and long tail of SKUs, and a high volume of unstructured, text-based data generated by product warranty claims. What is remanufacturing? Remanufacturing is the process of restoring core to give it an entirely new life. The core, the starting point for the remanufacturing process, is typically a high-value part that requires technical expertise to be restored to its original function. Within the automotive and industrials industry, parts that can be remanufactured include engines, transmissions, hydraulic components (such as bucket lifters), and drivetrain components (such as clutches and axels), as well as turbochargers and superchargers. Historically, the automotive and industrial equipment industries have had the most use cases for remanufacturing, but a growing number of use cases are emerging in industries such as medical devices, furniture, electronics, and aircraft components. The remanufacturing process typically involves seven […]

From Automation to Augmentation: How Industry 5.0 is Redefining Manufacturing

The landscape of manufacturing is undergoing a significant transformation as we transition from the principles of Industry 4.0 to the emerging focus of Industry 5.0. While Industry 4.0 emphasised automation and the integration of digital technologies into manufacturing processes, Industry 5.0 shifts the spotlight towards augmentation, fostering a harmonious collaboration between humans and machines. Evolution from Industry 4.0 to 5.0 Industry 4.0 brought a revolution by embedding automation and data exchange into manufacturing through cyber-physical systems, the Internet of Things, and cloud computing. The central aim was to streamline operations, reduce human intervention, and enhance efficiency. However, as we pivot to Industry 5.0, the emphasis broadens to include the critical role humans play alongside machines, leveraging the unique capabilities of both to drive innovation and adaptability. Key Differences: Automation vs Augmentation The shift from automation to augmentation marks a fundamental change. Automation focuses on machines performing tasks independently, effectively reducing human involvement in repetitive and labour-intensive activities. In contrast, augmentation enhances human capabilities. It is about empowering workers with intelligent systems, using machines to support and elevate human decision-making and creativity rather than replace it. Benefits of Human-Machine Collaboration The synergy between humans and machines in Industry 5.0 offers numerous benefits. It enhances problem-solving capabilities by combining human intuition with machine precision and data processing power. This partnership can lead to more innovative solutions and a more flexible production environment. Moreover, it increases operational efficiency as machines handle repetitive tasks, allowing human workers to focus on more strategic roles that require creativity and complex decision-making. Examples of Successful Augmentation Real-world examples of successful augmentation in manufacturing often involve collaborative robots, known as cobots, working alongside human workers on production lines. These cobots are designed to assist with precision tasks, reducing the physical strain on workers and lowering the risk of human error. […]

‘Tech bro’ culture stifling startup sector

You might have heard the term ‘tech bro’ – a shorthand for the hypermasculine culture synonymous with the startup world. But while it’s often associated with Silicon Valley, that same culture is alive and well in New Zealand’s innovation scene too, say researchers Professor Anne de Bruin and Dr Janine Swail. Entrepreneurial ecosystems: the networks, organisations, and funding systems that support startup ventures, might seem open to all. But they’re far from gender neutral, the researchers say. “The strong association of masculine traits with entrepreneurship persists, hindering gender equity,” says de Bruin. In a new paper, de Bruin and Swail examine how gender dynamics shape startup ecosystems, and how feminist theories can be used to make them more inclusive and equitable. “If you think about Auckland’s startup sector, it’s still pretty ‘tech bro’,” says Swail. “We need to rethink what it means to be inclusive in entrepreneurship.” She says this starts with challenging the norms that shape entrepreneurial culture – norms that can make women and non-binary people feel unwelcome. “Imagine you’re a female deep-tech entrepreneur looking for a lab or an accelerator programme,” says Swail. “You walk into a space that feels overwhelmingly masculine; in-jokes, blokey language, a boys club. It can be difficult to feel like you belong, let alone thrive.” One of the biggest barriers? Unacknowledged gender bias baked into the structures and language of entrepreneurship. De Bruin points to New Zealand’s finance ecosystem, where most venture capitalists are men. “The way people communicate and operate in that world is often coded in a very masculine way. Language matters, and when we start to unpack it, we see how women and others are often excluded, even unintentionally.” If New Zealand wants to develop a genuinely diverse startup sector, we need to question who it’s built for, and who’s […]

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 […]

‘Tech bro’ culture stifling startup sector

Dr Janine Swail. You might have heard the term ‘tech bro’ – a shorthand for the hypermasculine culture synonymous with the startup world. But while it’s often associated with Silicon Valley, that same culture is alive and well in New Zealand’s innovation scene too, say researchers Professor Anne de Bruin and Dr Janine Swail. Entrepreneurial ecosystems: the networks, organisations, and funding systems that support startup ventures, might seem open to all. But they’re far from gender neutral, the researchers say. “The strong association of masculine traits with entrepreneurship persists, hindering gender equity,” says de Bruin. In a new paper, de Bruin and Swail examine how gender dynamics shape startup ecosystems, and how feminist theories can be used to make them more inclusive and equitable. “If you think about Auckland’s startup sector, it’s still pretty ‘tech bro’,” says Swail. “We need to rethink what it means to be inclusive in entrepreneurship.” She says this starts with challenging the norms that shape entrepreneurial culture – norms that can make women and non-binary people feel unwelcome. “Imagine you’re a female deep-tech entrepreneur looking for a lab or an accelerator programme,” says Swail. “You walk into a space that feels overwhelmingly masculine; in-jokes, blokey language, a boys club. It can be difficult to feel like you belong, let alone thrive.” One of the biggest barriers? Unacknowledged gender bias baked into the structures and language of entrepreneurship. De Bruin points to New Zealand’s finance ecosystem, where most venture capitalists are men. “The way people communicate and operate in that world is often coded in a very masculine way. Language matters, and when we start to unpack it, we see how women and others are often excluded, even unintentionally.” If New Zealand wants to develop a genuinely diverse startup sector, we need to question […]

Hydrogen electric flight prepares for lift off in New Zealand

Stralis Aircraft, Fabrum and Ara Ake are collaborating to advance hydrogen-powered aviation by designing, developing and testing liquid-hydrogen storage tanks and a fuel system for Stralis aircraft. The partnership aims to enable Australasia’s first liquid-hydrogen-powered flight – and support the transition toward zero-emission aviation. Australian company Stralis Aircraft, which develops high-performance, low-operating-cost hydrogen-electric propulsion systems, will integrate Fabrum’s tanks and fuel system into its aircraft. New Zealand company Fabrum, which specialises in zero-emission transition technology, will provide lightweight composite tanks and dispensing systems, essential enablers for hydrogen-powered aircraft. The project is supported by Ara Ake, New Zealand’s future energy centre, and aligns with Fabrum’s recently announced hydrogen testing facility at Christchurch International Airport. “Our hydrogen liquefier provides readily available liquid hydrogen onsite, allowing the capability to access the critical fuel source to prove and test the tanks and fuel system we are developing for Stralis and their fixed-wing fuel-cell electric aircraft,” said Christopher Boyle, Managing Director of Fabrum. “With Ara Ake support, we are excited to be delivering our light-weight composite tanks and fuel system for Stralis to advance the future of hydrogen-powered flight.” The collaboration also aims to strengthen industry ties between New Zealand and Australia. The project will build expertise in liquid-hydrogen storage refuelling, and aircraft integration, contributing to New Zealand’s growing role in hydrogen aviation. In the picture: Ara Ake CE Cristiano Marantes (middle) with Stralis co-founder and CEO Bob Criner and co-founder and CTO Stuart Johnstone. “This project is a strong example of Ara Ake’s role in connecting leading organisations across countries to advance real-world clean energy solutions,” said Cristiano Marantes, CEO of Ara Ake. “By enabling this initiative, we’re supporting the first hydrogen-electric demonstration with liquid hydrogen and positioning New Zealand as a global testbed for sustainable aviation innovation.” Stralis’ fuel-cell technology is significantly lighter […]

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 […]

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