Ignite Your Industry Knowledge with the SouthMACH Seminar Series

Stay ahead of the curve and gain invaluable insights at the SouthMACH Seminar Series. Featuring industry leaders and experts, these sessions delve into the latest advancements, trends and best practices shaping the future of manufacturing, engineering and technology in the South Island. Explore our upcoming seminars and unlock new possibilities for your business.

10:00 am - 10:45 am
Wed 28 May

Optimizing HVAC Systems with CFD for Precision and Efficiency

This session has been postponed due to flight cancellations.  New Time TBC.

Gain a comprehensive overview of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and its significance in HVAC system design. Join Holyoake's Pouria Aghajannezhad and explore how CFD can be applied to existing and new design, and the benefits, requirements and cost of using CFD in HVAC systems
10:45 am - 11:10 am
Wed 28 May

Fan selection software & compliance with H1/VM3 of the NZ Building Code

H1/VM3 of the building Code gives specific fan power parameters that must be attained during the design phase. Modern selection software simplifies the design process by providing a range of fans that comply with the standard when specific design requirements are entered.
11:10 am - 11:30 am
Wed 28 May

How H1/VM3 impacts on the demand for folded galvanised ducting

H1/VM3 5.2.1 of the Building Code specifies the R levels of thermal insulation required for rigid ducting in commercial building over 300m2, consented since Nov 2021. The practicalities of insulating and installing traditional folded galvanised steel rigid ducting to H1/VM3 requirements are challenging. PIR panel ducting has become far more attractive than it has in the past. Discover how do Galv and PIR compare?
11:30 am - 12:15 pm
Wed 28 May

Carel Electronic Expansion Valves & IJW Smart APP

Electronic Expansion Valves are not new refrigeration technology but do have some advantages over other types. We will explore some of the points to consider when evaluating these as part of an energy efficiency or sustainability strategy for use in HVAC&R systems.CAREL IJW is the next generation APP enabled family of smart refrigeration controllers that deliver class leading features such as datalogging , Bluetooth, NFC and BMS connectivity . We will share some insights on how this can positively impact both technician and end user experience. APP driven commissioning and field diagnostics are useful Digital tools to enhance service and get a quicker resolution for critical breakdowns in the cold chain.
12:15 pm - 1:00 pm
Wed 28 May

Time for Action to Reduce Harm in Manufacturing

Join EMA's Jane Finlayson and discuss the critical issue of workplace harm that continues to plague the manufacturing sector in New Zealand. Despite numerous efforts, the rate of workplace harm has not seen significant reduction over the past decade. This has resulted in substantial costs not only to workers but also to businesses, communities, and the economy at large. Learn about the findings of Project Whakahaumaru, a by industry for industry harm reduction action plan. Learn about the types of harm, the workers most affected, and the businesses at higher risk and the proposed actionable strategies to support businesses in reducing harm rates through a coordinated, data-led approach with practical, industry-led solutions that go beyond compliance.
1:00 pm - 1:45 pm
Wed 28 May

Getting Started with Digital Transformation

This presentation provides a practical roadmap for manufacturers beginning their digital transformation journey. We'll explore how to assess your current technological maturity and identify high-impact starting points that align with business goals. Learn to overcome common implementation challenges through strategic planning and change management techniques. We'll share case studies of small and mid-sized manufacturers who successfully digitised operations without massive capital investments. Attendees will leave with actionable insights in to implementation strategies and metrics to measure transformation success in their facilities.
1:45 pm - 2:30 pm
Wed 28 May

Attracting a new generation to innovate and create

Join Steven Brooks (Competenz), John Nortman (Competenz), Grant Cameron (HamiltonJet), and Darren Marsh (Fabrum) as they discuss what employers can do to attract the best talent to their business, keep them engaged and opportunities for training and development to retain talent.
2:30 pm - 3:15 pm
Wed 28 May

Design Innovations using Additive Manufacture

This presentation will highlight the exciting possibilities of this manufacturing process and provide a brief summary of the ongoing projects where these structures are being incorporated into design projects at UC.With continued developments in Additive Manufacture (AM), the quality and capability of desktop 3D printing has increased while the average cost of Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) printers has decreased. Such developments have made the ability to manufacture flexible lattice structures accessible using desktop 3D printers and TPU filaments. This manufacturing development has unlocked a number of new possibilities for where these structures can be incorporated in engineering designs.
4:00 pm - 4:45 pm
Wed 28 May

KEYNOTE SESSION: From Garage to Orbit: A Manufacturing Story

Dawn Aerospace is building spaceplanes and in-space propulsion systems from the South Island of New Zealand—but it didn’t start that way. In this keynote, Charlie North shares the journey from a humble backyard shed to global impact, reflecting on the deeper truths of manufacturing. It’s not about hype or heroics, but people, process, and purpose. This is a call to action for New Zealand industry: aim high, build well, and back ourselves.
5:00 pm - 5:45 pm
Wed 28 May

Minister for Manufacturing Awards Presentation

Join your industry colleagues and other special guests as we announce the winners of the inaugural Minister for Manufacturing Awards 2025 at a special awards ceremony officiated by Hon Chris Penk - Minister for Manufacturing. The Awards recognise and celebrate the outstanding individuals and businesses driving the success of New Zealand’s manufacturing sector.
10:00 am - 10:45 am
Thu 29 May

Potential and pitfalls of modern tech

AI, Automation, Robotics and Optimisation.Founder/CEO Doug will use his 40 years building technology across the world to help you consider the options modern technologies from the software world AI, ML, Automation and Robotics, ERP, MRP, CRM, provide to your manufacturing business. He'll also look at the list of pitfalls and pain he often sees them creating. Then a quick consideration of things to help you when looking for tech to help your manufacturing business thrive and why you shouldn't believe the promises of Silicon Valley.
10:45 am - 11:30 am
Thu 29 May

How Australasian companies are leveraging the Digital Thread

Using digital thread to streamline information flow to manufacturing/operations.
To compete in the modern globalised economy, manufacturers must innovate rapidly, personalise customer experiences, and deliver high-quality products, all while managing costs and adapting to supply/demand fluctuations. Integration between strategic manufacturing support systems and overall business strategies is critical. This integration empowers Research and Development (R&D) and Manufacturing teams with real-time information and automation, enabling multidisciplinary teams to work more efficiently across departments and empowering frontline workers on the shopfloor with direct access to digital assets, helping optimise the flow of information through to manufacturing/operations.
We showcase examples of Australian and New Zealand manufacturing companies who have successfully utilised digital transformation and digital threads to meet these challenges.
11:30 am - 12:15 pm
Thu 29 May

Health and Safety from a Management Perspective

Brief review of Management/Officer responsibilities under the HSW Act 2015, key lessons from a recent landmark case and importance of prioritising critical safety risks over other types of risks. Michael brings over 40 years of Human Resources experience. He has a passion for helping Canterbury businesses navigate recruitment, employee relations, and performance management, with a special focus on fostering and developing talent and improving workplace culture to achieve positive commercial outcomes for businesses.
1:00 pm - 1:45 pm
Thu 29 May

Precision in progress: Advancing inspection techniques for future ready engineering

This presentation explores the use of 3D laser scanning technology for inspection processes, revolutionizing quality control (QC) across civil and mechanical industries. By leveraging precise, non-contact measurement techniques, 3D laser scanning enhances accuracy, reduces human error, and streamlines inspections. The presentation highlights how automated reporting systems can further optimize workflows, providing real-time insights and actionable data.
1:45 pm - 2:30 pm
Thu 29 May

Avoiding Maintenance Management Disaster and Embarrassment in the IOT World

Prefaced with an expose on what went wrong in the Kaitaki Interislander Ferry incident, Craig Carlyle presents a reality check on maintenance management in the IOT 4.0 world, what is happening out there and what isn’t.
2:30 pm - 3:00 pm
Thu 29 May

Beyond Prototyping: The Future of 3D Printing

The next era of 3D printing is here — and it goes far beyond prototypes. In this forward-looking session, Janak Patel explores how additive manufacturing is reshaping global supply chains, enabling digital warehouses, and unlocking new levels of agility in production. Discover why the smartest manufacturers are rethinking how, where, and when things get made — and how 3D printing is poised to become a cornerstone of modern industry.

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