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.
Excellence in Process Innovation Finalists – Recognising innovative manufacturing processes that improve efficiency, sustainability, and product quality.
- APL Manufacturing
- Breadcraft Wairarapa Ltd
- New Zealand Steel
- SEQUAL Lumber
Excellence in Manufacturing Leadership Finalists– Recognising leaders who have made a significant impact on their business and the industry through visionary leadership and strategic growth.
- Dmitrey Carruthers – Gisborne Engineering
- Jeff Vidanes – Temperzone
- Dr Karnika de Silva – NZ Product Accelerator
- Nathan Hay – Argus ManuTech
Manufacturer Apprentice of the Year Finalists – Honouring the achievements of an outstanding apprentice who shows exceptional promise and skill in the manufacturing industry.
- Joshua Chugg – Page Macrae Engineering
- Kate Cooper – Pact Group
- Lomialagi “Mia” Fa’Amausili – Blue Star Group (New Zealand) Ltd
- Michael Vitale – Pacific Steel
Manufacturer of the Year– Awarded to a business demonstrating excellence in production, innovation, and overall contribution to the industry.
- Douglas Pharmaceuticals
- HamiltonJet
- Howick Ltd
- Medsalv
Advancing Manufacturing Aotearoa (AMA) is a cross-sector industry body established in 2023 to champion New Zealand’s manufacturing and accelerate productivity innovation. AMA does this through information sharing, promoting collaboration, and taking practical steps to connect stakeholders across the industry. By delivering initiatives that strengthen the sector and support sustainable growth, AMA aims to drive meaningful progress and innovation that benefits all New Zealanders.
