Griffin’s Snacks plans to shut down its Proper Crisps factory in Nelson.
A company spokesperson said staff in Nelson and Wellington were informed last week about a plan to centralise all savoury snack production at the Wiri site in South Auckland.
The spokesperson said that if the proposal is approved, 82 positions in Nelson and Wellington might be impacted, with production possibly shifting to Wiri between late 2027 and early 2028.
This change would be backed by an investment at the Wiri site, including the establishment of new jobs.
The spokesperson said the company is engaging in good-faith consultations with its staff, listening to their feedback before making any decisions, and remains firmly committed to manufacturing in New Zealand.
“If changes proceed, we will offer relocation and redeployment support and work closely to support our teams through any transition.”
It confirmed that the Papakura site would remain unaffected.
Nelson mayor Nick Smith said it was “just another kick in the guts” for the region that was “almost punch-drunk with bad news.”
“The last four months are just off the charts with the number of blows to the regional economy,” Smith said.
“It just adds to the flow of bad news that the city has had. I remain optimistic that we can get out of this hole, but there’s part of me that just wants 2025 to be over.”
Recently, commercial fishing company Sealord announced plans to close its coated fish factory in Nelson.
The company revealed it is beginning consultations on a plan to cut 79 permanent jobs, comprising 57 factory positions and 22 management or office roles.