Minister for Manufacturing Awards 2026 Finalists Revealed
May , 2026 : The finalists for the 2026 Minister for Manufacturing Awards have been announced, recognizing businesses and individuals across New Zealand’s manufacturing sector. Minister for Small Business and Manufacturing Hon Cameron Brewer announced the finalists, saying they reflect the innovation, creativity and tenacity of the industry.
The winners have not yet been announced. They will be officially revealed at the EMEX Exhibition at Auckland Showgrounds on Wednesday, 27 May 2026, where the awards ceremony will be held with Minister Brewer.
The awards are hosted in collaboration with Advancing Manufacturing Aotearoa and are now in their second year.
Manufacturing’s Role in New Zealand’s Economy
According to the Minister’s release, New Zealand’s manufacturing sector employs around 250,000 people, generates eight percent of GDP, and contributes 60 percent of exports.
Brewer said the finalists are helping set a benchmark for industry excellence, while contributing to productivity, high-value jobs and New Zealand’s presence in global markets.The 2026 awards also include new categories, including a category for manufacturers with fewer than 50 full-time equivalent employees. The Minister said this change gives greater recognition to smaller manufacturers, which make up a large share of the sector.
Small Manufacturers Among the Finalists
The Manufacturer of the Year : FTE under 50 category includes The Fairlie Bakehouse, Lanaco, United Machinists, and Arotec Diagnostics.This category highlights the variety within New Zealand manufacturing, from food production and advanced materials to engineering and diagnostics.
The official awards programme also includes categories recognizing apprentices, emerging leaders, manufacturing leaders, process innovation and larger manufacturers.
Finalists From Across New Zealand
The 2026 finalist list includes businesses and individuals from several regions, including Auckland, Waikato, Canterbury, Northland, Wellington, Gisborne, Dunedin and South Canterbury., Finalists include well-known names such as Fonterra, Vitaco, Dawn Aerospace, Barkers Food Processors, PACT Group, RML Machinery, and Architectural Glass Products, alongside smaller and specialist manufacturers.
The list also recognizes individual talent through the Manufacturing Apprentice of the Year, Manufacturing Leader of the Year, and Manufacturing Emerging Leader of the Year categories.
Apprentices and Emerging Leaders Recognized
The Manufacturing Apprentice of the Year finalists are:
- Tanner Landon : Oasis Engineering
- Sam Boakes-Lark : MitchPine
- Devin Givson : Culham Engineering
- Ben Worthington : Bluefix Boatworks
The Manufacturing Emerging Leader of the Year finalists are:
- Tyler Thurston : Free Flow Manufacturing
- Andy Reid : Dodson Group
- Dmitry Carruthers : Gisborne Engineering
- Oliver Hunt : Medsalv
These categories highlight the people developing skills, leadership and future capability within New Zealand manufacturing.
Process Innovation in Focus
The Manufacturing Excellence in Process Innovation finalists are Lanaco, Architectural Glass Products, Free Flow Manufacturing, and Fonterra.
The category recognises manufacturers improving production processes, efficiency, sustainability and product quality.
In a challenging global environment, process innovation is becoming increasingly important for manufacturers seeking to improve competitiveness and resilience.
Winners to Be Announced on 27 May
The winners of the 2026 Minister for Manufacturing Awards will be announced at EMEX in Auckland on Wednesday, 27 May 2026.
Until then, the current announcement confirms the finalists only. The awards will bring attention to the companies, apprentices, emerging leaders and senior industry figures contributing to New Zealand’s manufacturing performance.
Editorial Note: This article is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It provides analytical insights based on publicly available information and does not constitute financial, legal, or political advice. Readers are encouraged to consult official sources and expert advisors for verified guidance.
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