Why manufacture in New Zealand?
New Zealand has a strong manufacturing sector, which contributes to our economy and gross domestic product (GDP). By working together and pooling resources, manufacturers can generate even better results. If you’re thinking about growth, or if you’re starting out in manufacturing, read on to kick-start your plans.
Manufacturing is a big part of our economy
Let’s look at how much manufacturing contributes: it generates 10% of our GDP and employs 10% of our workforce. Manufacturing covers a lot, including food and beverage, machinery and equipment, wood and paper, plastics and rubber, metals, chemicals and refining and more.
Flexible and creative
You may wonder if it’s harder to start or grow in manufacturing in a small country at the bottom of the world. But that’s a good thing! It means we’ve become superstars at being flexible and responsive. And absolute legends at being creative and innovative.
Manufacturing in New Zealand offers:
- local suppliers at your fingertips to meet your needs – especially if you’re developing innovative stuff or you’re a research and development centre
- easy connections with a network of suppliers and expert help
- opportunities to learn and have your say on policy – the manufacturing industry is well connected to local and central government.
And we’re good at being self-sufficient
Relying on overseas suppliers and products can be risky. Bad weather, natural disasters, far-off wars, a pandemic – it all makes us vulnerable to delays and price increases.
So, manufacturing here makes us more resilient and less reliant on the rest of the world.
Benefits of manufacturing in NZ
New Zealand has other benefits for manufacturers, including reliable infrastructure, high-speed internet and a stable political system. We’re also known for scoring super-low on corruption – this is one time when a low score is a really good thing!
All of this sets New Zealand apart as a great place for manufacturing, whether you’re starting out or thinking about growth.
Next steps to grow your manufacturing
Explore topics that can help you:
Industry 4.0 and strategic planning
You can also check out organisations that work for and with manufacturers.
Advanced Manufacturing Aotearoa (AMA) aims to strengthen New Zealand’s manufacturing network, by supporting manufacturers to adopt smart and modern technologies and processes.
AMA — Advanced Manufacturing Aotearoa
Employers and Manufacturers Association (EMA) has case studies, an advice line, networking, learning courses and more. A membership fee applies.
Manufacturing — EMA
ManufacturingNZ is part of BusinessNZ. It has news, training, events and more for manufacturers.
Related topics
Industry 4.0 and strategic planning
Industry 4.0 is changing the manufacturing scene. Learn what this means for you, how to plan and successfully transition into the future.
Improve your productivity
Stay competitive by continuously improving your business operations. There are four main ways to do so, and we’ll walk you through them.