Operational Excellence, Competitive Systems & Practices (Level 3)

If you have been thinking about strengthening your team’s productivity and improvement capability, now is the time.

MSD Early Response Team

Ministry of Social Development (MSD) offers comprehensive support to AMA members and the wider manufacturing sector through its Early Response Team, which assists businesses during both growth and restructuring phases.

Inspiring the Futures: Food & Fibre Sector

Don't miss this opportunity to showcase your job to students this November 2025. Donald’s Farm and NZ Young Farmers are running a careers event for Auckland for school students in November and we think the students would love to hear about your job.

AMA at the M2 AI Summit - Exploring AI Opportunities for New Zealand Manufacturers

AMA joined industry leaders and innovators to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming business — and what it means for New Zealand manufacturers.

AMA team has doubled in size.

Meet Evelien our Membership and Marketing Executive. Read how she got here, what motivated her to take this role and her first impressions.

Manufacturing and Engineering Tour Series at Scott Technology

This is your chance to get a close-up look at world-class automation in motion and hear from the experts leading the way in advanced manufacturing, robotics, and R&D innovation.

ATNZ – Mechanical Engineering CNC Operator Micro Credential (level 3)

ATNZ – Mechanical Engineering CNC Operator Micro Credential. Invest in and upskill your CNC team today.

Register - AMA AGM 10th November 2025

Please Register for our upcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM), where we’ll discuss key strategic updates and industry insights that will shape our path forward.

Government Procurement Rules Significantly Scaled Back

The government has slashed its procurement rules by a third in an effort to make it easier for local companies when tendering contracts, worth an annual $50 billion.

AMA Council Meeting - 25 September 11am - 1pm via MSTeams

Join us for an informative and action-packed Council Meeting, where we’ll be covering a variety of important topics that you won’t want to miss!

From High School to High Impact: Students leading the way in manufacturing

This year’s Waikato pilot earn-as-you-learn programme has shown what’s possible when industry invests in young talent.

BNZ Performance of Manufacturing Index - August 2025

New Zealand’s manufacturing sector fell back into contraction during August, according to the latest BNZ – BusinessNZ Performance of Manufacturing Index (PMI). The seasonally adjusted PMI for August was 49.9 (a PMI reading above 50.0 indicates that manufacturing is generally expanding; below 50.0 that it is declining). This was down...

Manufacturing Events Calendar 2025 -6

Key manufacturing dates to note in your calendar

Leading the Future of Manufacturing: From Shop Floor to Smart Floor

Join us for a special evening as we celebrate the launch of the Icehouse partnership with Advancing Manufacturing Aotearoa.

BNZ Performance of Manufacturing Index - July 2025

New Zealand’s manufacturing sector moved back into expansion during July, according to the latest BNZ – BusinessNZ Performance of Manufacturing Index (PMI). The seasonally adjusted PMI for July was 52.8 (a PMI reading above 50.0 indicates that manufacturing is generally expanding; below 50.0 that it is declining). This was up...

Earn as you Learn NZ Certificate in Manufacturing L3 - Information Session

Come along to find out more about the programme, meet the employers involved and see behind the scenes of this state of the art manufacturing facility

NZ Diploma Engineering Qualification & National Curriculum Review Project

We are looking for expressions of interest from passionate and experienced individuals to join either an overarching industry focus group, and/or strand-specific groups (e.g. civil, electrical, electronic, mechanical and fire), to help shape the review of the qualification and programme document.

Consultation - Transpower New Zealand: A future grid blueprint for Aotearoa

This is a valuable opportunity for the manufacturing sector to provide meaningful input into Transpower's long-term strategy and play a key role in shaping the future of power distribution in New Zealand.

AMA partners with Icehouse

We’re thrilled to share that Advancing Manufacturing Aotearoa is partnering with Icehouse to bring new opportunities to small and medium-sized manufacturers

Internship Opportunities

Summer internship opportunities in the manufacturing industry offer engineering students a valuable platform to apply academic knowledge to real-world challenges. These internships provide hands-on experience in areas such as...

BNZ Performance of Manufacturing Index - June 2025

BNZ Performance of Manufacturing Index - May 2025 PMI 48.8 - Still in the Red: New Zealand’s manufacturing sector fell back into contraction during May, according to the latest BNZ – BusinessNZ Performance of Manufacturing Index (PMI).

New Zealand AI Strategy launches

Today, the Government released the New Zealand AI Strategy which sets out a direction for New Zealand, giving New Zealand businesses the confidence to safely use, develop and innovate with this transformative tech

Navigating Industry 4.0: A Practical Guide for Modern Manufacturers

Industry 4.0 isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. But the principles are universal, and these businesses are showing what’s possible

BNZ Performance of Manufacturing Index - May 2025

BNZ Performance of Manufacturing Index - May 2025 PMI 47.5 - Back in the Red: New Zealand’s manufacturing sector fell back into contraction during May, according to the latest BNZ – BusinessNZ Performance of Manufacturing Index (PMI).

Excellence celebrated at first-ever Minister for Manufacturing Awards

The winners of the inaugural Minister for Manufacturing Awards were annouounced at a special ceremony during SouthMACH Christchurch on 28 May 2025. The event will bring together industry leaders, government officials, and innovators to celebrate excellence in New Zealand manufacturing.

Celebrating Kiwi Manufacturing Brilliance - 28 May

The winners of the inaugural Minister for Manufacturing Awards will be announced at a special ceremony during SouthMACH Christchurch on 28 May 2025. The event will bring together industry leaders, government officials, and innovators to celebrate excellence in New Zealand manufacturing.

BNZ Performance of Manufacturing Index - April 2025

PMI 53.9 - Uptick in Expansion: New Zealand’s manufacturing sector showed an uptick in expansion during April, according to the latest BNZ – BusinessNZ Performance of Manufacturing Index (PMI). The seasonally adjusted PMI for...

Incredible Manufacturing Collaboration & Showcase at SouthMACH

This diverse display on Stand39 aims to celebrate the strength and innovation in New Zealand's manufacturing sector.

Government Submissions

View our submissions to see what a difference your voice can make.

Meet Our Finalists - Minister for Manufacturing Awards 2025

Advancing Manufacturing Aotearoa (AMA) is proud to announce the finalists for the first-ever Minister for Manufacturing Awards, celebrating excellence, innovation, and leadership across New Zealand’s dynamic manufacturing sector

Consultation on Industry Skills Boards coverage and decisions on Work Based Learning model

As you know, the Government has decided to disestablish the current Workforce Development Councils and establish new Industry Skills Boards (ISBs). The ISBs will take on some of the WDC functions from January 2026

Manufacturing & Innovation Expo, May 14th

BNZ Performance of Manufacturing Index: April

PMI 53.2 - Holding It's Own - New Zealand’s manufacturing sector continued to show expansion for a third consecutive month, according to the latest BNZ – BusinessNZ Performance of Manufacturing Index (PMI).

Coming Soon: Make Your Move – A Social Challenge for Future Makers

As part of our exciting The Future Makers campaign (coming soon), we’re kicking off something fun to put the spotlight on you—our manufacturers – The Future Makers – and your incredible work.

The Future Makers Campaign is Launching!

Manufacturing in New Zealand is clever , innovative, and world-class—but not enough people know about the incredible work happening behind the scenes. The Future Makers campaign is here to change that.

Fuelling the Engine Room: Aotearoa's Manufacturing Future

BNZ Performance of Manufacturing Index: March

PMI 53.9 - Lift Off - New Zealand’s manufacturing sector displayed its highest value for expansion since August 2022, according to the latest BNZ – BusinessNZ Performance of Manufacturing Index (PMI).

One billion dollars. A passport for rangatahi's future.

So, AMA are delighted to be working with the Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce to support their rangatahi to see the world of manufacturing across the Hutt Valley.

AMA Ask Me Anything Webinar Series: Unlocking Opportunities for Manufacturers

Advancing Manufacturing Aotearoa’s Ask Me Anything (AMA2) webinars are your chance to engage directly with leading industry experts and get answers to your most pressing questions—quickly and efficiently!

What to expect when the Labour Inspectorate visits your business

The Labour Inspectorate proactively works with businesses, industry groups and sector leaders to strengthen the systems that underpin employment standards compliance.

Inaugural Minister for Manufacturing Awards 2025 - entries are open!

The inaugural Minister for Manufacturing Awards 2025 have been launched to recognise and celebrate the outstanding individuals and businesses driving the success of New Zealand’s manufacturing sector. These prestigious awards aim to honour the people and companies that set benchmarks for excellence, inspiring others to raise their standards and contributing to the long-term prosperity of the sector.

More Big News for Christchurch

Awesome story of ChristchurchNZ supporting local hi-tech manufacturers FABRUM. Look at what can happen when we all work together!

Launch of pilot Earn as you Learn NZ Certificate in Manufacturing Level 3

BNZ Performance of Manufacturing Index: February

PMI 51.4 - Expansion - New Zealand’s manufacturing sector displayed expansion for the first time in 23 months, according to the latest BNZ – BusinessNZ Performance of Manufacturing Index (PMI). The seasonally adjusted PMI for January was 51.4 (a PMI reading above 50.0 indicates that...

Announcement: Results of AMA Board Election

Things got very exciting with counting votes for new AMA Board Members following a last-minute flurry of Proxy Votes and at the Special General Meeting this morning.

Voting now open for AMA Board positions

The calibre of the 17 candidates is truly outstanding, with each one bringing a wealth of experience and a forward-thinking vision that will shape the future of manufacturing in New Zealand. This is an opportunity for our members to make their voices heard and contribute to the direction of our industry.

Agentforce World Tour Sydney February 26th

Discover how prioritising agents on the Salesforce Platform can boost productivity and strengthen customer relationships and see how autonomous agents can work alongside your teams to improve efficiency and deliver 24/7 service.

HAVE YOUR FINAL SAY: 2025 Work-based learning reforms – targeted consultation

Over 2024, the Government considered the future design of New Zealand’s Vocational Education and Training system.

Vocational education and training decisions support return to regions

The Government’s aim is to ensure learners across New Zealand have access to vocational education and training with regional provision, and that important industry and national needs are met.

BNZ Performance of Manufacturing Index: December

PMI 45.9 - December Doldrums - New Zealand’s manufacturing sector remained in contraction for the last month of 2024, according to the latest BNZ – BusinessNZ Performance of Manufacturing Index (PMI).

World Economic Forum 2025 Future of Jobs Report

Skills gaps are the biggest barrier to business transformation around the world. And, most of the global workforce will need reskilling within the next five years.

Sarah Ramsay Appointed as Chair of Advancing Manufacturing Aotearoa

We are excited to announce Sarah Ramsay as the new Chair of AMA. Based in Dunedin, Sarah is the co-owner and CEO of advanced manufacturer United Machinists.

AMA Board election announcement

As discussed during our December AGM, we are pleased to announce that applications are now open for the six available roles on the AMA Board. Nominations will be accepted until February 5th, 2025

Announcing the AMA NZ Manufacturing Awards 2025!

AMA are excited to celebrate & recognise excellence in the manufacturing industry at the 2025 Manufacturing Awards! These awards will recognise outstanding achievements across four key categories

A New Name: Introducing Advancing Manufacturing Aotearoa

Advanced Manufacturing Aotearoa (AMA) has officially changed its name to Advancing Manufacturing Aotearoa.

Work visa reforms announced

The Government has announced reforms to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) scheme, a new seasonal work pathway and work rights for more Interim Visa holders.

Only 27 More Smart Factory Assessments Available!

Apply for a fully-funded smart factory assessment as part of Callaghan Innovation's Industry 4.0 program.

Event: SouthMACH, 28-29 May 2025

Explore the South Island’s largest trade event for the manufacturing and engineering industries. Entries are open!

Your Story Matters – Here’s what next

To everyone who shared stories with us – thank you so much. The response to the Future Makers campaign has been amazing, and we’re so excited about the depth of talent, innovation, and inspiring stories across New Zealand’s manufacturing sector.

BNZ Performance of Manufacturing Index - November

Retreat- PMI 45.5 - New Zealand’s manufacturing sector continued to show contraction at a faster rate during November, according to the latest BNZ – BusinessNZ Performance of Manufacturing Index (PMI).

Manufacturers’ Workshop Series - The Impact of Industry 4.0 on Your Business

EMA is keeping the Smart Factory Showcase alive with the introduction of a Manufacturers’ Workshop series in partnership with ASB Bank, aimed at exploring “The Impact of Industry 4.0 on Your Business.” Facilitated by experienced Industry 4.0 consultants, LMAC…

Share Your Story - Join the "Future Makers" Campaign

We’re thrilled to announce we are working on the launch of an exciting initiative to celebrate the incredible people and stories within New Zealand’s manufacturing sector - the "Future Makers" campaign.

BNZ Performance of Manufacturing Index - October

Lost Momentum - PMI 45.8 - New Zealand’s manufacturing sector showed contraction at a faster rate during October, according to the latest BNZ – BusinessNZ Performance of Manufacturing Index (PMI).

AMA Special Council Meeting - 20th November 2024

This will be open to all members with the first part of the meeting focussed on any questions around the new Constitution, which will be distributed beforehand. and pr

Unlock your potential with the NZ Diploma Competitive Systems & Practices L5

Are you ready to elevate your career and improve operational excellence in the workplace?

Register - AMA AGM 4th December 2024

Please Register for our upcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM), where we’ll discuss key strategic updates and industry insights that will shape our path forward.  

BNZ Performance of Manufacturing Index - September 2024

The Long and Slow Road - PMI - 46.9 - New Zealand’s manufacturing sector continued to show higher levels of activity for September, although remained in contraction, according to the latest BNZ – BusinessNZ Performance of Manufacturing Index (PMI).

Workforce Development Plans

Strategically preparing Aotearoa, New Zealand's manufacturing, engineering, and logistics industries for future success by addressing diverse workforce needs, emerging trends and technologies, regional needs, skills gaps, and sector-specific challenges.

Sistema Plastics Factory Tours - 16th Oct / 13th Nov

AMA is inviting manufacturers to join us for an exclusive tour of Sistema Plastics Oct 16 & Nov 13. Experience Industry 4.0 technologies and automation in action!

Panning for Gold with Fisher & Paykel Healthcare

On a recent visit to Fisher & Paykel Healthcare, AMA CEO Catherine Lye met with Desh Edirisuriya, General Manager – New Zealand Operations. They discussed everything from people to plant productivity and going above and beyond world class best practice to do something different, something better.

BNZ Performance of Manufacturing Index - August 2024

Incremental Improvement - PMI 45.8 - New Zealand’s manufacturing sector showed further signs of improvement during August, although still in contraction, according to the latest BNZ – BusinessNZ Performance of Manufacturing Index (PMI).

Consultation on the Government's proposed redesign of the vocational education and training system is closed

Thank you to everyone who has engaged over the last six weeks to ensure that your voice is heard by the Government. Read the AMA and Hanga Aro Rau submissions here

BNZ Performance of Manufacturing Index - July 2024

Stopping the Rot - PMI 44.0 - Activity in New Zealand’s manufacturing sector showed some small signs of improvement, although still in contraction, according to the latest BNZ – BusinessNZ Performance of Manufacturing Index (PMI).

Vocational education reform consultation begins

Success Stories: Hutt Valley Innovation and Collaboration Story

There is no silver bullet to solve New Zealand's economic challenges, but gold nuggets are scattered everywhere.

Mapping Waste Streams & Reducing Carbon Emissions

This week Advanced Manufacturing Aotearoa attended the report launch and unveiling of the updated Climate Action Toolbox. Both initiatives aim to help the manufacturing sector reduce its greenhouse gas emissions.

BNZ Performance of Manufacturing Index - June 2024

Freefall - PMI 41.1 - Activity in New Zealand’s manufacturing sector dropped to its third lowest value for a non-COVID lockdown month.

EVENT: Transforming Manufacturing - the role of AI

New Zealand Manufacturing Talent Survey 2024

AMA are surveying the manufacturing sector to collect and present comprehensive evidential data to support our advocacy for solutions to the challenges arising from the recent changes in immigration settings.   Our goal is to provide the Minister with detailed, data-driven real-time insights that highlight the critical areas affected and propose actionable solutions

EMEX2024 - One Company’s Reflections

Des Pitfield from Lower Hutt manufacturer Datum Machines - Our stand was the result of 11 months of design and prototyping.

BNZ Performance of Manufacturing Index - May 2024

Lack of Orders - PMI 47.2 - Activity in New Zealand’s manufacturing sector experienced a drop in May

Budget 2024 for Manufacturing

It is clear that the allocation for manufacturing is significantly less than what the sector needs, though this is not surprising for the immediate 12-month horizon. The key factor will be the Minister's decisions regarding the long-term strategy, and we are confident that through AMA’s established connections with MPAG, we will continue to play a vital role in this process…

The Relentless Pursuit of Better, Faster, Smarter

Having arrived late to the viewing of the latest Netflix series, “Drive to Survive,” I couldn’t help but notice the striking parallels between Formula One and our manufacturing/engineering industry.

Go Fourth and Prosper

How can Industry 4.0 technologies help Aotearoa’s manufacturers to work smarter, not harder, and is there a flow-on benefit for the way people view engineers

Success Story: SnapCore - Oceans to Orbit

Catherine Lye attended the grand opening ceremony of SnapCore’s new advanced manufacturing facility in Nelson on the 13th May 2024. The Honourable Shane Jones, Minister of Regional Development and Oceans and Fisheries presided over the ceremony, and it was attended by well over 100 friends, family, iwi, business leaders, local & central government officials, investors. It was incredibly fulfilling, rewarding, and inspiring for all who have played a key role in SnapCore’s transition into a global hitter.

Tech Week 24 is live! 20th - 26th May

Featuring hundreds of events nationwide and engaging thousands of Kiwi across the motu. Techweek drives the national conversation about the value and impact of emerging technology upon the lives of New Zealanders.

TechStep - Tech Ambassadors to inspire the next generation

Auckland Business Chamber, Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce and their many partners around Aotearoa.  The team would like to appeal to Manufacturers to get involved - find out more

BNZ Performance of Manufacturing Index - April 2024

To and Fro - PMI 48.9 - Activity in New Zealand’s manufacturing sector experienced a pick up during April,

AI and manufacturing: why AI is not an either-or decision

AMA board member Phill Patton asked his Datacom colleagues Tracey Cotter-Martin & Dave Ffowcs-Williams to share insights on the opportunities AI holds for manufacturing in New Zealand – and some advice for organisations getting started.

Digital Systems for Productivity Improvement in Manufacturing

NZQA has just approved a new micro-credential for Digital Systems for Productivity Improvement in Manufacturing

BNZ Performance of Manufacturing Index - March 2024

Activity in New Zealand’s manufacturing sector experienced stronger contraction during March, according to the latest BNZ – BusinessNZ Performance of Manufacturing Index (PMI). The seasonally...

Innovate, Collaborate, Transform: NZ Product Accelerator and Fisher & Paykel's Visionary Partnership

In the ever-evolving landscape of technology and innovation, the NZ Product Accelerator (NZPA) aims to supercharge the research and development processes of local companies.

Success Stories: 2024 Finalists announced in NZ Hi-Tech Awards

A HUGE round of applause for the amazing NZ Hi-Tech Award Finalists with a particular spotlight and shoutout to New Zealand’s ‘manufacturing’ finalists demonstrating excellence across the technology sector!

Event: Manufacturing Industry Conference (in conjunction with EMEX 2024)

After the success of the 2023 Manufacturing Industry Conference hosted by MAKE│NZ and SouthMach, we’re bringing the conference north to Auckland for EMEX 2024. Join us on Wednesday May 29th 2024 at 10am to 5:30pm

Success Stories: East Auckland Business Awards 2024

Business East Tamaki staged an unforgettable evening filled with recognition, inspiration and a lot of fun on the 20th March!  Congratulations to the finalists in the 'excellence in industry & manufacturing' category and winner Leanne's Kitchen.

Event: SOREC Summit - Future proofing your manufacturing & engineering business

The premier event celebrating manufacturing & engineering businesses across Otago & Southland scheduled for Thurs 18th April

Developing a Plan to PowerUP NZ Manufacturing

Manufacturing is critical to the New Zealand economy, underpinning over half of our exports and employing around 250,000 people. As New Zealand’s first ever Minister for Manufacturing, Andrew Bayly, has hosted two workshops to improve the sector and encourage growth, which will ultimately make sure our economy is firing on all cylinders.

Industry4.0 Demonstration Network

The Industry 4.0 Demonstration Network is a Government initiative to help New Zealand businesses realise the benefits of a range of digital technologies that will enhance manufacturing performance, output, monitoring and control.

Beyond Borders: Global Innovations in Sustainable Manufacturing Technology

NZIER Report to ASB - Business Productivity in New Zealand

This provides a prime opportunity for banks to play their part in driving productivity growth by supporting businesses with financial investment in technology, innovation and developing export markets.Take out business lending to increase productivity by 30 June, and you could be eligible for your share of $5 million worth of Productivity Grants.

BNZ Performance of Manufacturing Index - February 2024

Activity in New Zealand’s manufacturing sector continued to show improvement in February, but still remained in contraction, according to the latest BNZ – BusinessNZ Performance of Manufacturing Index (PMI).

ImmigrationNZ Roundup: January - February 2024

The latest bi-monthly ImmigrationNZ Roundup, with a summary of policy changes in January & February - plus the usual key links and recent stats

Success Stories: ANZ Business of the Year Awards 2024 (Ashburton District)

It's time to hit fast forward

It’s time to hit fast forward: Spark study finds a 20% uplift in advanced digital technologies could boost productivity and increase industry output by up to $26 billion in the next decade

Westpac Manufacturing Insights Report - Connecting for Prosperity

Westpac released their new insights report today, "Manufacturing in New Zealand - Connecting for prosperity".

Manufacturers urged to adopt more digital tech: 'NZ is a decade behind Europe'

"Larger firms here are investing in smart technologies, although that typically focuses on getting greater efficiencies out of existing operating models. But that's very different from using digital technologies to enable transformative change." - Westpac NZ Industry Economist, Paul Clark

Small is our Superpower

New Zealand has a strong manufacturing sector, but it could be better, stronger, more productive. Technology is a key enabler.

Debunking the Myths: A case for manufacturing

Catherine Lye interviews AMA Board member Glenn Hansen Group CFO, Vortex Engineering Group

Accelerating Manufacturing Innovation

Join us for an exciting in-person event - the Accelerating Manufacturing Innovation hosted by New Zealand Product Accelerator and University of Waikato!

What is advanced manufacturing? It's as easy as SMB...

Advanced Manufacturing for SMB: the path to smarter, modern & better operations

AMA applauds Minister for Manufacturing appointment

Advanced Manufacturing Aotearoa (AMA) applauds the appointment of Andrew Bayly as Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, Minister for Small Business and Manufacturing, and Minister of Statistics.

Minister of Manufacturing?

National’s Manufacturing spokesman Andrew Bayly aims to have a Minister of Manufacturing in the new Government.

2023 NZ Advanced Manufacturing report

The Technology Investment Network’s (TIN) inaugural NZ Advanced Manufacturing report is now available.

Productivity - it turns out its rocket science

We need a government that’s clever enough to put policy in place that supports companies shifting from identifying high value innovation, to making it. It’s not rocket science. Or is it?

Chief Executive Appointed

Catherine Lye is the first Chief Executive of Advanced Manufacturing Aotearoa. She has a deep knowledge of the ITP and understanding of issues faced by the sector.