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Specialised Manufacturing

New Zealand delivers cost-effective innovation for specialised manufacturing

Cost-effective innovation enables global manufacturing companies to develop distinctive products for a competitive marketplace. Innovation is the key to competing against low-cost rivals able to mass-produce increasingly sophisticated goods. New Zealand's highly educated workforce has the right talent, experience and 'can-do' attitude to deliver that competitive advantage. Our businesses are generally small, lean and very flexible. They are able to offer solutions at a lower cost than many other OECD countries. New Zealand also offers economic stability and world-class infrastructure, making it an excellent prospect for long term investment.

New Zealand delivers commercial success

New Zealand already delivers innovative solutions to overseas partners in the marine, aviation, defence, agricultural technology, and auto components industries.

Ford Motor Company leverages off New Zealand’s ability to offer short-run, flexible manufacturing, with costs significantly less than the United States, Europe and Australia. Partnering with a New Zealand wheel and suspension component manufacturer enables Ford to rapidly deliver customised products that incorporate advances in design and technology.

International engine manufacturer Pratt & Whitney has taken advantage of our highly educated and competitively priced workforce by forming a New Zealand joint venture to service aircraft. The company benefits from New Zealand's culture of productivity, which has led to fewer industrial stoppages and days lost than many other OECD countries.

American Superconductor Corporation also reaps rewards from New Zealand’s highly educated workforce, and our fast and cost-effective research and development processes. A world-class telecommunications infrastructure and a secure business environment offer additional benefits. General Electric leverages off New Zealand's reputation as a cost-effective location for prototype development.

General Electric’s partnership with a New Zealand manufacturer enables it to innovate and test prototype suitability for mass production.

Share the success

These are just a few key examples of the many international companies which profit from a partnership with New Zealand. Contact Investment New Zealand, the New Zealand government investment promotion agency, to find out how your business can benefit from investing in New Zealand. Investment New Zealand understands the specialised manufacturing industry. We have extensive networks in the industry which enable us to identify and facilitate investment opportunities to meet your specific needs.

Reports & Publications

Specialised Manufacturing Sector Profile 
A two page profile of New Zealand's Specialised Manufacturing sector.


The New Zealand Advantage

  • Highly educated workforce has the necessary talent, experience and 'can-do' attitude.
  • Small, lean and flexible companies able to offer innovative solutions at lower cost.
  • Stable economic environment with world-class communications infrastructure.




Specialised Manufacturing profile video





Specialised Manufacturing Case Studies

Pratt & Whitney was looking for an aero-engineering workshop with a global reputation for excellence and innovation. The company found what it needed in Christchurch, New Zealand.