New Zealand’s manufacturing sector has reached its highest activity level since December 2021, Small Business and Manufacturing Minister Chris Penk said.
According to Penk, this marks a strong start to the year.
The latest BNZ-BusinessNZ Performance of Manufacturing Index (PMI) indicates that the seasonally adjusted PMI for December climbed 4.4 points from November, reaching 56.1.
“This is an incredibly positive signal, as a PMI reading above 50.0 indicates the manufacturing industry is generally expanding,” Penk said.
“The data suggests New Zealand manufacturing growth is outperforming major economies, including the United States, China, Japan, the United Kingdom, and Australia.”
“The success of manufacturing is central to the health of the New Zealand economy. The sector directly employs more than 220,000 people, contributes around 8% of GDP and accounts for 60% of our exports.”
“We know some manufacturers felt the pinch of harder months last year. Today’s great news coupled with a 1.1% uptick for national GDP in the September quarter indicates a brighter future for businesses.”
Penk also revealed that the second annual Minister for Manufacturing Awards will take place at the Auckland Showgrounds on 27 May.
“This year’s awards will again recognise the Manufacturer of the Year, Manufacturing Leader of the Year, Apprentice of the Year and Excellence in Process Innovation. It will also introduce three new categories.”
It features a specific Manufacturer of the Year category for companies employing fewer than 50 full-time equivalent (FTE) staff. “With around 97% of manufacturers falling into this group, opening a new category ensures small businesses receive the recognition they deserve.”
The awards will also include an Emerging Manufacturer Leader of the Year to highlight up-and-coming innovators, plus a Manufacturing Lifetime & Legacy Award recognising lifelong contributions to the industry.
“Entries for the 2026 awards open on 23 February until 31 March, and I encourage manufacturers to join in celebrating their successes by making a submission.”