Manufacturing in Canterbury is about more than production, it's about innovation, resilience and building a sustainable future. We understand the unique challenges you face and are here to help you tackle them head-on.

Through targeted advocacy, expert advice, industry-specific events and programmes, and strong connections, we support you to grow and succeed.

Our dedicated Manufacturing Business Advisor, John Hamilton, brings 18 years of hands-on industry experience and a deep understanding of what it takes to succeed in this sector.

We’re a strong voice for Canterbury manufacturers, advocating on the issues that matter most – from workforce challenges and supply chain resilience to innovation incentives.

Most recently, our advocacy helped shape Government policy with the introduction of the new Investment Boost scheme. By staying closely connected to the sector, we ensure Canterbury’s manufacturing voice is heard where it counts – both locally and nationally.

Recent advocacy highlights include:

• Halting the gradual decoupling from the Australia-New Zealand standards committees

• Engaging with WorkSafe on balancing enforcement with genuine support for manufacturers

• Raising concerns about the impact of rising energy costs and dwindling gas supplies on industrial competitiveness

Events and Training for Canterbury Manufacturers

We design our events and training specifically for Canterbury’s manufacturing sector – connecting you with industry experts, fresh thinking, and each other.

From hands-on workshops and factory tours to leadership development, health and safety training, and technology insights, our programmes are built to help you boost capability, stay competitive, and navigate change.

Whether you're on the factory floor or driving strategic growth, there's something for every stage of your manufacturing journey.

Explore our latest training:

• Health & Safety →
• Leadership & Management →
• Human Resources →

🔗 Check-out All our latest events →

In manufacturing, who you know can be just as important as what you know. We help connect Canterbury manufacturers with the right people. Whether that’s a potential collaborator, a specialist supplier, a government contact or an expert in a specific challenge you’re facing.

Our extensive networks across industry, government, and research enable us to open doors, spark partnerships and help you find the support you need to move forward.

Stay in the loop with our monthly manufacturing email  update, curated by our dedicated Manufacturing Business Advisor, John Hamilton. Each edition is packed with relevant news, upcoming events, funding opportunities, and practical insights for Canterbury manufacturers. It’s the easiest way to stay informed and ahead of the curve—straight from someone who understands the industry inside out.
Sign up today and get the latest delivered to your inbox.

Business Canterbury Manufacturing Advisory Group

Business Canterbury facilitate a Manufacturing Advisory Group, made up of a range of local manufacturing businesses, who meet approx. six times a year. The group provide Business Canterbury with current market feedback and provide a sounding board and feedback for manufacturing industry policy and initiatives.

Advanced Manufacturing Aotearoa (AMA) & AMA Regional Working Groups

In parallel, Business Canterbury hosts the local AMA Regional Working Group, connecting Canterbury manufacturers to national initiatives that drive productivity and innovation. AMA through their regional working groups, acts as a conduit for government programs, funding, and insights from the Manufacturing Productivity Advisory Group (MPAG).

About MPAG

Manufacturing Productivity Advisory Group (MPAG) is an independent advisory body overseen by government Minister Chris Penk (Min for Small Business & Manufacturing). It brings together over 30 industry leaders and representatives to strengthen New Zealand’s manufacturing sector. The group provides strategic advice on:

• Boosting productivity and resilience
• Driving process innovation
• Closing the skills gap

Through AMA and their AMA Regional Working Groups and collaboration with industry & government, MPAG delivers practical recommendations to support long-term growth in advanced manufacturing.