Insights into New Zealand’s manufacturing sector

According to Investment New Zealand, New Zealand manufacturing costs are 50% less than most other OECD countries.  New Zealand manufacturing organisations are predominantly small, lean and flexible allowing for short-run production cycles. This in turn reduces costs.

New Zealand manufacturers are internationally successful in:

• Aviation
• Clean technology
• Defence
• Engineering
• Marine
• Plastics

Influence on New Zealand’s labour market

As of June 2009, manufacturing was the largest employer in New Zealand, supplying jobs for 12.4% of the workforce. New Zealand practices stringent health and safety standards ensuring employees are looked after. These highly skilled workers contribute to the cost effectivenes of manufacturing in New Zealand.

Financial performance

Contributing 13.1% to GDP in the year ending September 2009, manufacturing continues to prosper as New Zealand’s economy recovers from the recent economic downturn. The marine manufacturing sector alone had sales of $1.8 billion in 2009.

Key Resources

We suggest looking at the following resources:

• Business New Zealand provides monthly survey updates about manufacturing activity
• The Engineering, Printing and Manufacturing Union represents employees within the manufacturing industry and provides up-to-date industry information
• The Ministry of Economic Development provides information about doing business in New Zealand and international trade
• If you’re considering importing or exporting manufactured goods, New Zealand Customs provides you with useful information and advice.