Author: Tania

Latest Economic Figures show Positive Growth

Written by Tania on 25 August 2026. Posted in Economic Updates.

Strong primary sector returns and widespread growth across most industries is being attributed to a positive 2% lift for the Timaru District in the June quarter.

The figures released today (20 Aug) by Infometrics show the district tracking ahead of the national GDP growth figure of 1.7% and the consumer spending is up 3.4%, well above the national tally of 0.6%.

Tourism economic activity for the region is also tracking very positively with growth of 4.7% in visitor spending over the past year and a rise in guest nights of 4.9%.

Venture Timaru Chief Executive Nigel Davenport said the consumer figures show that households are spending again for day to day items, but larger purchases, such as new cars, are a little more limited and new dwelling consents are light for the region.

“It’s been a good year for some of our farmers with lamb prices up 30% and beef up 27%, and these positive results have a flow on effect to the wider community,” he said.

“We’re also encouraged by the visitor economy growth and believe the push for international visitors through the Government funding of various Boost campaigns has made a difference. Timaru has been part of a national campaign targeting North America and an upper half of the South Island campaign targeting Australia.”

Timaru’s unemployment rate has experienced a small drop to 3.7%, down from 4.4% in the previous 12 months.

“This quarter’s numbers back up the advocacy we commenced a week ago,” Davenport said.

“Our GDP growth is again outpacing the national average and unemployment remains well below it – this isn’t a one-off, it’s the pattern. South Canterbury keeps delivering, on a fraction of the infrastructure investment and recognition other regions get. The data keeps making our case for us.

“Overall, the economic report shows our district is well-positioned for longer-term growth, with our agricultural and manufacturing sectors creating a strong base on which we can grow,” Davenport said.

Read the full June 2026 Quarter Update

MachineCraft Components Head to the International Space Station”.

Written by Tania on 19 August 2026. Posted in Business Success, Local innovation.

South Canterbury precision engineering company MachineCraft has completed work on specialist components destined for the International Space Station (ISS), marking an important milestone for both the business and the South Canterbury Aerospace Strategy Group.

Venture Timaru Press Release,

Contracted by Asteria Engineering, MachineCraft manufactured twelve precision aluminium panels for scientific hardware being developed for a University of Canterbury space biology project led by Associate Professor Dr Sarah Kessans. The panels will form the primary interface between astronauts and the research payload aboard the International Space Station.

“These pieces will be the payloads ‘front panels,’ which will host a series of LEDs, buttons, and an LCD display to enable the astronauts to interact with our payload,” said David Wright, Principal Engineer at Asteria Engineering.

MachineCraft owner Andrew Geddes said the opportunity arose through connections established as part of the South Canterbury Aerospace Strategy Group, where Asteria Engineering Principal Engineer David Wright identified an immediate need for a local precision engineering partner to produce the highly specialised components.

Established by Venture Timaru, the South Canterbury Aerospace Strategy Group brings together local businesses already participating in, or seeking to enter, the growing aerospace sector, alongside industry partners and regional leaders. The group is focused on positioning South Canterbury as an active contributor to New Zealand’s expanding aerospace industry by strengthening industry relationships, increasing awareness of emerging opportunities, and connecting local capability with high-value aerospace projects.

A key strength of the group has been its close alignment with the wider Waitaha Canterbury Aerospace Strategy, led by ChristchurchNZ. Through this partnership, Aerospace Lead Emma Renowden has worked alongside Venture Timaru to connect South Canterbury businesses with Canterbury’s growing aerospace ecosystem by facilitating industry speakers, identifying collaboration opportunities, and ensuring the region is represented within the wider strategy. Venture Timaru Chief Executive Nigel Davenport also serves on the Waitaha Aerospace Strategy Steering Committee, strengthening the connection between South Canterbury and Canterbury’s long-term aerospace ambitions.

“Being involved with the Aerospace Strategy Group meant we were in the room when the opportunity arose,” said Geddes. “Without those connections, we simply wouldn’t have known the project existed. It shows the value of bringing local businesses together with people working in the aerospace sector.”

MachineCraft successfully manufactured the precision aluminium components, with vapour blasting completed by another Timaru business before the parts moved on for specialist finishing and final integration.

Asteria was impressed with the quality of the delivered products and subsequently signed up for another piece of work from MachineCraft said David.

“The communication was great too. They were transparent about any delays and issues that arose, noticing potential problems before they escalated and working with us at Asteria to find a workable, positive solution as soon as possible. We often develop novel technology here at Asteria, which frequently brings tough machining challenges, so we know production can present hurdles. The main things for us are transparency, communication, and determination from the manufacturer to find a good solution, and that’s exactly what we found with MachineCraft.”

“This is a genuinely significant moment for South Canterbury — a locally made component is going to the International Space Station. It’s proof that the precision engineering capability sitting in our district is world-class, and that when we connect the right people, our businesses can compete for work at the very top end of global industry.,” says Nigel Davenport, Chief Executive of Venture Timaru.

“MachineCraft’s story is exactly the outcome the Aerospace Strategy Group was set up to deliver — a local manufacturer, backed by our strong relationships with ChristchurchNZ and the Waitaha Aerospace Strategy, landing work that most businesses would never even hear about. As New Zealand’s aerospace sector grows, we want South Canterbury businesses positioned to win that work, says Davenport.”

MachineCraft’s work on the ISS components marks a significant milestone for South Canterbury’s advanced manufacturing sector, and a strong early proof point for the Aerospace Strategy Group’s ambitions.

“This won’t be the last time a South Canterbury business does work like this,” says Davenport. “What MachineCraft has shown is that the capability is here, the relationships are here, and now there’s a track record to point to. Our job is to make sure the next opportunity — and the many after that — finds its way to a local business.”

Read the article published by The Timaru Herald on Wednesday 19 August 2026

Nationally significant – South Canterbury delivers for New Zealand

Written by Tania on 12 August 2026. Posted in Economic Updates.

South Canterbury is a $3.8 billion food and fibre exporter and a national electricity powerhouse generating 16% of New Zealand’s installed capacity — yet receives only 0.7% of the government’s nationwide roading investment, according to new independent analysis released today by Timaru District Council and Venture Timaru.

The region — covering the Timaru, Waimate and Mackenzie districts — makes up around 5% of New Zealand’s land area and just 1.2% of its population. A report prepared by economist Benje Patterson shows it is a nationally significant but largely unheralded contributor to the New Zealand economy.

Food and fibre exports from South Canterbury totaled an estimated $3.8 billion in 2025 — 6.2% of New Zealand’s total —including 10% of the country’s dairy exports, nearly 10% of all seafood and aquaculture exports and over 20% of its arable exports. There is 1,741MW of installed generation capacity across the Mackenzie District and Waitaki River hydro scheme, of which South Canterbury use only around 231MW — a generation-to-demand ratio of 7.5x, making the area a major net exporter of electricity nationally – powering homes and businesses well beyond our own boundaries. Now layer on the next wave: 2,712 MW of additional generation projects in Transpower’s pipeline – with 2,412MW of this at application or investigation phase. Not all will be built, but even partial delivery would make his area one of the country’s largest concentrations of new renewable generation.

Despite this, one of our key enablers roading infrastructure lags behind when it comes to investment. Even though the region’s roads (encompassing the Mid Canterbury roading catchment) carry 5.1% of the State Highway network and underpin the supply chains that get this produce and energy infrastructure to market, NZTA roading expenditure in South Canterbury was just $43.7 million in the 2025 year — 0.7% of the $6.4 billion spent nationwide.

Timaru District Mayor Nigel Bowen said the figures contained in the report, and those collated from other sources, confirmed what the region had long suspected. “We have never been a region that shouts the loudest, and we’ve too often paid the price for that. This isn’t a complaint — it’s a fact-based case. South Canterbury is quietly getting on with the job of growing food, generating power, and running a strong, well-managed economy, and doing it on a fraction of the infrastructure investment, recognition of contribution or support other regions receive. That gap has to close, and it has to start with central government recognising the numbers in front of them.” — Nigel Bowen, Mayor, Timaru District

The Council and Venture Timaru are calling on central government to ensure South Canterbury’s nationally important freight and productive corridors are properly recognised when infrastructure funding is assessed against the Government Policy Statement on Land Transport’s own priorities of economic growth, productivity, freight efficiency, resilience, safety and value for money.

Venture Timaru Chief Executive Nigel Davenport said the data should reset how central government thinks about the region. “South Canterbury isn’t a marginal economy that needs propping up — it’s a strong, diverse, well-performing one that’s carrying more than its share of the national load. Our GDP growth traditionally outpaces the national average, our unemployment rate is well below it, and our exports and energy generation are doing heavy lifting for the whole country. We’re not asking for a hand-out. We’re asking for investment decisions and regulatory settings that actually reflect what this region delivers.” — Nigel Davenport, Chief Executive, Venture Timaru

In addition to a more appropriate allocation of NZTA roading expenditure, Davenport said there was another immediate, tangible development central government should now ignite to show it had heard the region’s case: Transpower’s $193 million upgrade of the Mid & Upper South Island electricity grid, which received Commerce Commission draft approval in December 2025 and final approval in June 2026.

The upgrade will build new switching stations near Orari and Rangitata and strengthen transmission through the Waitaki Valley, improving the flow of lower-cost South Island hydro power northwards, addressing growing demand and providing greater headroom for future electrification. Davenport said the real prize for South Canterbury was what that headroom could unlock next.

“Now with final approval – government should deliver this grid upgrade at pace working with us to unlock large-load opportunities like further electrification of our community and existing industry, attracting new-to-district business, and unlock a growing pipeline of energy prospects — all made possible as soon as this backbone energy capacity and access is secured” – Nigel Davenport, Chief Executive, Venture Timaru

Bowen said the grid upgrade was one of several significant opportunities the region wanted central government to actively back, alongside the wider renewable energy potential that South Canterbury’s unique generation capacity, transmission access and energy environment now put within reach.

Davenport said unlocking that potential was also a case for the electricity market reform business leaders nationally are calling for – including the Auckland Business Chamber’s push to fix a market many are describing as broken. “The courage business leaders are asking politicians to show isn’t abstract — electricity market reform has a concrete test case right here in South Canterbury. This is a region with the generation, land, grid access and appetite to help power up New Zealand, waiting on a market and regulatory framework that matches its ambition – Nigel Davenport, Chief Executive, Venture Timaru.

The two organisations have briefed local Members of Parliament Meager and Anderson who have committed their support to present and position the data and report findings to relevant Ministers and central government agencies over coming months, as part of a wider campaign to ignite action in key areas that better reflects the region’s national significance.

“South Canterbury has always punched above its weight. We produce a nationally significant share of New Zealand’s food, fibre and electricity, and the opportunity now is to turn that productive base into the next wave of investment, higher-value jobs and stronger exports.” The strongest case we can make for investment is that getting the right roads, electricity connections and digital infrastructure in place can unlock substantial private investment, lift productivity and strengthen supply chains for the whole country.” – James Meager MP for Rangitata and Minister for the South Island.

“This is a great piece of work highlighting the significant economic activity of South Canterbury. It shows how central governments have tended to overlook infrastructure spending in South Canterbury whilst detailing significant potential that exists in our region. Both James and I will continue advocating for greater central government funding to come into South Canterbury so our communities receive the share they deserve and can build on opportunities for a stronger future.” – Miles Anderson MP for Waitaki

“We want to unleash what this region can be and so much more. Central government now has the opportunity to step up and in – right alongside us and back that – ” — Nigel Bowen, Mayor, Timaru District.

Read the economic report prepared by Benji Patterson, May 2026 “The contribution of South Canterbury’s primary industries and energy to New Zealand”

Celebrating DB Breweries & International Beer Day

Written by Tania on 7 August 2026. Posted in Business Success, Local innovation.

On International Beer Day (7 August), Venture Timaru is proud to celebrate one of our region’s enduring industrial success stories: DB Draught Brewery in Washdyke.

Since opening in 1976 as the Mainland Brewery, the site has been part of Timaru’s economic fabric for five decades, supporting local manufacturing capability, regional employment, and the proud South Island story behind DB Draught.

For Venture Timaru, DB’s presence here represents more than a well-known brand. It reflects the strength, adaptability and resilience of businesses that continue to invest in our district through changing markets, evolving customer preferences and shifting global conditions. The brewery has stood the test of time by continuing to modernise, improve and look ahead.

Through HEINEKEN’s ownership and backing, DB has continued to strengthen its Timaru operation, supporting investment in plant, systems and environmental upgrades that contribute to long-term economic resilience.

“In a regional economy like ours, investment of this nature matters. It helps sustain specialist skills, supports local supply chains and reinforces Timaru’s role as a place where nationally significant production can thrive,” says Nigel Davenport, CEO, Venture Timaru.

One of the most exciting parts of DB’s Timaru story is its sustainability progress. Brewing requires energy and water, and many of those demands remain constant regardless of production levels. Yet the DB Draught team has responded with innovation and determination, finding smarter ways to brew.

Between 2023 and 2025, DB’s internal unaudited data reports that heat use at the Timaru brewery dropped by 17% and electricity use fell by 12%, supported by upgrades to older equipment, including refrigeration, and a fresh look at how energy is used across the site. These improvements show how established industries can keep evolving, combining operational excellence with a practical commitment to doing better for the environment.

Water efficiency has also been a standout achievement. By adopting HEINEKEN global best practice and closely monitoring water use, the Timaru team reduced water consumption by 20% between 2023 and 2025, reaching 2.74 hectolitres of water per hectolitre of beer produced. The site is now well on track toward HEINEKEN’s 2030 stretch target of 2.6 litres of water for every litre of beer. Cleaning routines, equipment cleaning order and chemical use have all been reviewed to reduce waste while maintaining strict quality standards.

DB’s environmental leadership in Timaru is also reflected in larger infrastructure changes. The brewery has transitioned from coal to locally sourced biomass for process heat, a major step in reducing emissions and supporting a more sustainable local energy story. Its onsite wastewater treatment plant further demonstrates a commitment to responsible operations, with treated water returned to the environment and by-products able to support composting.

As we mark International Beer Day, Venture Timaru is pleased to acknowledge DB Draught Brewery as a valued local employer, an iconic brand, and an example of regional industry adapting for the future.

DB’s continued presence in Timaru speaks to the strength of our local economy, the capability of our people, and the importance of sustained investment in both production and environmental performance. We are proud to have DB as part of our district’s story and look forward to seeing its progress continue for many years to come.

Find out more about DB Breweries and their sustainability efforts.

World Productivity Day 20 June 2026

Written by Tania on 21 July 2026. Posted in Economic Updates.

It’s World Productivity Day and Timaru District has plenty to celebrate!

Our economy is powered by high-performing agriculture, manufacturing and construction sectors that outperform national productivity benchmarks. Together, these industries account for 39% of our districts GDP and provide a strong platform for sustainable economic growth

Key productivity measures highlight the strength of our local economy:

Agriculture: $204,490 GDP per filled job — $49,724 above the New Zealand average.
Manufacturing: $154,872 GDP per filled job — $19,547 above the national average.
Construction: $108,933 GDP per filled job — $10,022 above the national average.

These outcomes showcase the capability of our workforce, the commitment of local businesses and a culture that values innovation, practical problem-solving and continuous improvement.

“These numbers tell a compelling story about what our district does well. Our farmers, manufacturers and construction businesses aren’t just productive by local standards — they’re outperforming the country. That’s something we should be proud of and build on.” Nigel Davenport, Chief Executive, Venture Timaru

As labour markets evolve and the demand for higher-skilled employment grows, productivity will increasingly be driven by the adoption of automation, technology and innovation. Encouragingly, businesses across our district are already investing in new systems, smarter processes and future-focused solutions that strengthen resilience and unlock higher-value opportunities.

“The districts that will thrive over the next decade are those investing now in smarter tools and more efficient processes. We’re seeing that mindset across South Canterbury — businesses that aren’t waiting for change, they’re leading it.” said Davenport.

Today we recognise the businesses, workers and industry leaders whose commitment to productivity continues to strengthen our district and create new opportunities.

A great local example of innovation and productivity in action is ProVision, a South Canterbury-based UAV solutions company applying drone technology across agriculture, conservation and specialist aerial operations.

“ProVision is a fantastic example of the kind of innovation happening right here in our district. Khan and his team are applying technology in genuinely practical ways that lift productivity across agriculture and beyond — and that’s exactly the future-focused thinking that sets South Canterbury apart.” States Davenport.

Their work shows how smarter tools can lift productivity on the ground – supporting more efficient pest management, monitoring, spraying, spreading, mapping and heavy-lifting applications in challenging environments.

For our district, these kinds of practical, technology-led solutions have flow-on benefits well beyond one sector. They help strengthen agricultural performance, support safer and more sustainable land management, and contribute to the highly productive, resilient and future-focused economy we are celebrating today.

Find out more about Provision

Click here to see Khan Adam and the ProVision team in action on You Tube

Innovation is Busuiness as Usual at Vendella

Written by Tania on 21 July 2026. Posted in Business Success, Local innovation.

Innovation is often associated with breakthrough technologies, major research projects, or big disruptive ideas. But in the Timaru District, innovation is also showing up through everyday decisions that improve productivity, create value, and help local businesses compete well beyond our region.

That is one of the strengths of our local economy. Across sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, construction, logistics, and specialist supply, many of our productive businesses build innovation into the way they work.

Vendella is a great example of that mindset in action.

Based in Timaru, Vendella has grown to become a trusted supplier to New Zealand and Australia’s accommodation sector, supporting hotels, motels, holiday parks, student and staff accommodation, healthcare, aged care, and other accommodation providers with beds, bedding, furniture, linen, housekeeping, and in-room essentials. Their client base includes major accommodation brands and large organisations.

Vendellas focus is on fit-for-purpose products, comfort, service, sustainability, and ease of procurement has created a business model that helps accommodation providers deliver consistent guest experiences while also improving their own productivity.

That model has now travelled across the Tasman. Vendella’s expansion into Australia shows how a business built in Timaru can develop systems, relationships, and service standards that are scalable in a much larger market. With business growth accelerating, Australia is expected to exceed New Zealand turnover by the end of the year.

In our conversation with Luke Brodie and Wendy Wolhuter, one theme came through clear, at Vendella, innovation starts with customer pain points.

Rather than innovating only when markets shift or new technology appears, the team listens closely to the people using their products every day — from general managers and procurement teams through to housekeepers and on-site staff. Those conversations are brought back into the business, where different parts of the team work together to ask a simple but powerful question: what could we do differently to make this easier, faster, more sustainable, or more valuable for our customers?

Luke shares a great example of how technology and process improvement have refined bed supply, from higher-volume container shipments and reduced freight movements through to faster installation for accommodation providers. The result is innovation that reduces waste, supports better environmental outcomes, and helps customers avoid lost revenue from rooms sitting empty.

Vendella reminds us that innovation is not always about chasing the latest technology. Sometimes it is about creating a culture where every customer conversation, every process, and every product decision become an opportunity to do better.

And when that mindset becomes business as usual, the impact can be significant — for the business, for its customers, and for the wider Timaru District economy.

“What stands out about Vendella is that their innovation is grounded in understanding their customers and continuously improving how they deliver value. It demonstrates that world-class businesses do not need to be located in major centres to have a national and international impact.” Nigel Davenport, CEO, Venture Timaru

Vendella’s growth into Australia is a strong example of how South Canterbury companies are combining practical innovation, strong customer relationships, and operational excellence to compete successfully in larger markets.

Find out more about Vendella

Watch the video below and hear more from Luke and Wendy about how Vendella is turning everyday problem-solving into growth.

Small growth in Timaru’s GDP for year to March 2026, with modest recovery

Written by Tania on 20 July 2026. Posted in Economic Updates.

Timaru District is tracking broadly in line with national economic trends, with new figures released today showing modest economic recovery in the year to March 2026.

The district’s GDP increased by 0.5% over the period, slightly ahead of the national figure of 0.4%. Canterbury recorded 1.2% growth, while neighbouring districts also posted stronger gains overall — Ashburton (1.6%), Mackenzie (1.8%), Waimate (2.6%) and Waitaki (2.7%).

The figures, released in the latest Infometrics Quarterly Economic Monitor, highlight agriculture, tourism and real estate activity as key contributors to Timaru District’s improving economic position, while construction and manufacturing continue to experience softer conditions.

Venture Timaru Chief Executive Nigel Davenport said the district’s economic performance reflected both the resilience and diversity of the wider South Canterbury economy. “While the recovery remains measured, there are encouraging signs emerging across several sectors of our economy. Our primary industries continue to underpin regional prosperity, while tourism, consumer spending and business confidence are all showing positive momentum,” he said.

Consumer spending in Timaru District rose 1.6% over the year, outperforming both Canterbury and national trends, while business numbers increased 2.2%, indicating growing confidence despite continued global and domestic economic pressures.

Tourism expenditure in the district increased strongly by 11.6% over the year. Tourism now supports approximately 1,378 jobs across Timaru District, representing 5.1% of all local employment.

“We’ve recently enjoyed significant national and international attention for our visitor offering and events sector, and it is pleasing to see that translating into real visitor expenditure,” Davenport said.

“What is particularly important is that many of these visitors are also travelling throughout the wider South Canterbury and North Otago areas. Increasingly, visitors experience this part of the South Island as a connected regional destination.”

Davenport said the economic links between neighbouring districts across South Canterbury and North Otago continued to strengthen.

“Our economy does not operate in isolation. The workforce, supply chains, visitor flows and business relationships across Timaru, Waimate, Mackenzie, Ashburton and Waitaki districts are increasingly interconnected, and that regional collaboration will become even more important as we collectively navigate future opportunities and challenges.”

The report notes that unemployment in Timaru District remains comparatively low at 4.0%, below both the Canterbury and national averages, although Jobseeker numbers continue to rise, particularly among the 40–54 age group and longer-term beneficiaries.

“There is no question some sectors and households are still facing pressure, particularly with ongoing global uncertainty and higher operating costs. However, the overall picture suggests a district that remains resilient, adaptable and well-positioned for longer-term growth,” Davenport said.

Read the full report here

Report Date 21 May 2026

Timaru CBD Group

Written by Tania on 20 July 2026. Posted in Business Success.

Representing businesses and building owners within the town centre, the Timaru CBD Group acts as an informal business sector within the district.

The first steps towards the establishment of the group began in 2017, when Venture Timaru was tasked by the Timaru District Council to facilitate the process, gathering together stakeholders and assisting in the development of a strategic plan for the area. It became an incorporated society in 2017 and four activing working groups were formed focussing on promoting and enhancing the CBD, attracting investment, CBD heritage and the Executive Group.

From this, a Business Improvement District (BID) was formed in 2023 which is run by the Timaru CBD Group.

The BID’s vision is to build a strong, connected business community and vibrant destination where people choose to work, live and play, driving economic growth and community wellbeing.

Venture Timaru continues to closely support the Timaru CBD Group and BID, as a vital hub of our district.

In 2024 The CBD Group launched The Exchange

Caroline Bay Rock and Hop 2026

Written by Tania on 17 July 2026. Posted in Life in the Timaru District.

For Caroline Bay Rock and Hop, 2026 marked a huge milestone, celebrating its 10^th anniversary.

The nostaligic celebration of cars, caravans and motorbikes spanned four days in March 2026, with a variety of events including Gala Day at Caroline Bay, Laps at Levels, Friday Cruises and Friday Night Casino Night, a Rock Your Socks Off dance and Car Boot Sale.

Caroline Bay Rock and Hop continues to capture hearts far and wide, with attendees travelling from all corners of New Zealand, and this year they were thrilled to welcome 20 Rock ’n’ Roll dancers from Australia.

Organised by Hospice South Canterbury, events and marketing manager Kim Rogers, says time and time again people tell them this is the best car show they’ve ever been to. She says best of all, the event once again delivered where it matters most, with an incredible $177,000 was raised for Hospice South Canterbury, proving that Rock and Hop is not only a crowd‑favourite celebration, but also a powerful fundraiser supporting local palliative patients and their families.

On top of this, an event calculator report by Infometrics for Caroline Bay Rock and Hop 2026 showed an economic impact for the community of approximately $2.8m turnover, $1.5m contribution to GDP and $769,070 to household income.

The reports says that the average spend per person per day of the visitors from out of the district was $425, with locals spending, on average, $295 per day. This money was spent on accommodation, restaurants and bars, food from stores, other retail, transportation and fuel.

Caroline Bay Rock and Hop brings almost $3m to Timaru District | The Press

South Canterbury Aerospace Strategy Gorup

Written by Tania on 17 July 2026. Posted in Business Success, Local innovation.

South Canterbury is well positioned to participate in one of the world’s fastest-growing industries, with the global aerospace economy forecast to grow from approximately USD 630 billion in 2023 to USD 1.8 trillion by 2035. Closer to home, New Zealand’s aerospace sector is already valued at NZD 2.5 billion, having grown by 53% over the past five years, and is supported by the country’s position as the third busiest launch nation in the world.

Recognising the scale of this opportunity, South Canterbury businesses, industry partners and regional stakeholders are working together to shape a local aerospace strategy that aligns with the wider Waitaha Canterbury Aerospace Strategy. The focus is on ensuring the region’s existing strengths, capabilities and infrastructure are visible, connected and positioned to participate in this rapidly expanding sector.

Facilitated by Venture Timaru, the group is taking a collaborative, industry-led approach to co-design a strategy that reflects the region’s unique advantages. While aerospace may be viewed as an emerging industry, many of the capabilities required already exist across South Canterbury’s established sectors. Advanced engineering, precision manufacturing, automation, electronics, software development and drone technologies all provide strong foundations for future growth.

The region is already demonstrating its capability through businesses and assets that are contributing to the wider aerospace ecosystem. Glentanner Aerodrome supports aerospace activity through its use by Dawn Aerospace for test flights. Local companies such as SPS Automation and Provision are delivering innovative drone applications and technologies with strong alignment to aerospace markets. Precision engineering firms are also proving their capability on a global stage, with MachineCraft recently completing its first CNC-machined prototype for an international aerospace player.

By identifying and connecting these capabilities, the group is creating a strategy that aims to create pathways for local businesses to access new markets, enter regional and national supply chains, attract investment and build future workforce capability.

Coming together on an eight-week cycle, this group is positioning South Canterbury to capture the economic, innovation and employment benefits of a sector that is expected to become a major contributor to both the Canterbury and New Zealand economies in the years ahead.

Volunteering and Community with Roselyn Fauth

Written by Tania on 17 July 2026. Posted in Life in the Timaru District.

For Roselyn, volunteering has been a way to learn, connect, build friendships and help shape the place she loves. A sixth-generation Timaruvian on her father’s side, Roselyn grew up in Timaru, attended Waimataitai School and Timaru Girls’ High School, and now raises her own family here with her husband Chris and their two daughters. With family roots stretching back to the 1860s, and a mother who came to New Zealand from the Netherlands, Roselyn grew up with a strong sense that stories, cultures and traditions help people feel they belong.

That sense of belonging has guided much of her community involvement. Roselyn was first invited into volunteering in her early 20s through the Friends of Aigantighe. What began as a chance to support the art gallery became more than two decades of contribution and learning. Through the Friends, she helped support artists, exhibitions and access to art, while also gaining practical skills in meetings, governance, organising and teamwork. The experience showed her that volunteering opens doors: not only to helping others, but to learning from people of different ages, backgrounds and perspectives.

Roselyn’s passion for free, meaningful family fun led to Timaru Rocks, a simple idea and activity that quickly grew into a community of thousands. Rock painting events brought people together and reinforced that many families were looking for low-cost ways to enjoy the district. From there, Roselyn, Chris and her father Geoff created WuHoo Timaru, a voluntary project helping people discover free things to see and do across the district. As the project grew, Roselyn began researching local places and stories, making everyday outings richer by connecting people with the history around them.

One of Roselyn’s most visible contributions has been her involvement with CPlay at Caroline Bay. As part of a small volunteer committee, she helped champion a new playground that raised $3 million and, when it opened, was one of the largest in the Southern Hemisphere. Drawing on what she had learned through volunteering, Roselyn helped ensure the play space was fun, accessible, challenging and meaningful. The playground’s themes celebrate local stories, helping children play while also learning about where they come from. She also created resources for educators to support school visits and connect play with local learning.

Her contribution extends across the arts, heritage and civic life of the district. Through the Friends of Aigantighe and the Timaru Civic Trust, Roselyn has supported causes that reflect her love of art, history, buildings and local stories. For her, these things matter because they help people feel part of something larger than themselves. She believes old buildings, artworks, museums, libraries, sports fields and public spaces all help create communities around them.

Timaru, Roselyn says, is small enough for people to make a genuine difference, yet rich with opportunities. From the library, Aigantighe Art Gallery and South Canterbury Museum to playgrounds, sports facilities, theatres, gardens, beaches and nearby lakes and trails, she sees a district where people can discover what matters to them and find their own way to contribute. Her own family spends time together, often exploring, making, noticing and uncovering local stories together.

She encourages others get involved in volunteering “you do not need to be an expert, and you do not need to do everything. You simply bring what you can. Whether it is time, creativity, practical skills, curiosity or encouragement, every contribution matters.”Roselyn’s involvement shows how volunteering can open doors, strengthen connections and help make Timaru a great place to live, visit and belong.

“I want people to feel seen, included and able to participate. I want children to have opportunities to discover what they enjoy and where they belong. I want people to understand that their ideas, skills and experiences have value.” says Roselyn Fauth

Creating Pathways & Attracting Talent at Timaru Dental Centre

Written by Tania on 16 July 2026. Posted in Business Success, Life in the Timaru District.

Creating a future-ready workforce means building workplaces where people of different ages, backgrounds and experiences can grow, contribute and develop meaningful careers over time.

As demand for skilled healthcare professionals continues to grow, attracting and retaining talent is a challenge faced by many practices. Mark Goodhew of Timaru Dental Care has responded by building a team that brings together emerging professionals, experienced practitioners and talent from beyond New Zealand.

Mark has developed strong links to education pathways, particularly through the University of Otago’s School of Dentistry. Several members of the clinical team are Otago graduates, including dentists who qualified in 2021, 2024 and 2025. This demonstrates how the Timaru District can successfully attract and retain highly skilled graduates at the beginning of their careers. The proximity of Timaru to Dunedin and Otago University creates a valuable advantage.

Alongside emerging professionals, the practice also benefits from decades of experience. One of its newest team members graduated from Otago in 1973 and joined Timaru Dental Care in 2025 after a long career serving communities across the region. His continued participation in the workforce highlights the opportunities available for people later in their careers to remain connected to meaningful work while sharing a lifetime of knowledge, expertise and professional judgement with younger colleagues. This intergenerational approach creates valuable mentoring opportunities, helping pass on technical skills, work ethic and a passion for patient care.

The practice has also demonstrated that Timaru can attract talent from around the world. A dentist who trained and practised in the United States has chosen to continue his career in Timaru, bringing a different perspective and experience to the team. His decision reflects the appeal of the district as a place where skilled professionals can build rewarding careers while enjoying the lifestyle and opportunities that regional New Zealand offers.

Timaru Dental Care is also investing in the next generation. A current team member first joined through the High School Gateway Programme, gaining work experience that inspired a career in dental assisting. After becoming a permanent employee, she completed her professional qualification and continues to build her career within the practice.

Timaru Dental Care’s approach reflects a broader ambition shared by employers across the district: creating workplaces where people can belong, learn and lead at every stage of their career. By embracing diversity, supporting qualification pathways and valuing both emerging and experienced professionals, businesses like Timaru Dental Care are helping build a skilled, adaptable workforce ready to meet the opportunities of the future.

Building Primary Industries Talent for the Future

Written by Tania on 16 July 2026. Posted in Life in the Timaru District.

In the Timaru District, there is a shared ambition to create strong pathways from education into rewarding careers.

As food and fibre, logistics, manufacturing, and supporting services adapt to automation, digital tools, sustainability, and new ways of working, employers need skilled, confident, work-ready people who can move successfully from education into industry.

At Geraldine High School, the Primary Industry Academy (PIA) is a practical, structured model for school-to-work transition. Delivered through the Secondary Tertiary Partnership Trade Academy framework in partnership with Primary ITO, it provides NCEA-aligned, hands-on learning connected directly to industry expectations.

The programme runs during normal school hours, around four hours per week, with students progressing through three levels:

Level 1 introduces Year 11 students to foundational skills including fencing, water systems, nutrition, welding, and farm bike operation, supported by field trips, competitions, and A&P show engagement.
Level 2 builds capability through chainsaw, tractor, and fencing training, a weekly workplace placement day, and major experiential learning such as multi-day industry exposure trips, fundraising, and competitive fencing events linked to Fieldays at Mystery Creek.
Level 3 supports a small group of senior students through advanced Primary ITO papers, including feeding and pastures, with pathways into apprenticeships, tertiary study, or direct employment.

Across all levels, the academy prioritises practical competence, with Level 3 students spending up to 90% of their time in applied, industry-based learning.

Contributing to the success is the academy’s deep integration with industry partners, sponsors, and community organisations. Students access real equipment, mentoring, and workplace environments through contractors, agribusinesses, and training providers, with organisations such as Fire and Emergency New Zealand and New Zealand Police contributing to learning around safety, decision-making, and responsibility.

Beyond technical training, PIA is designed to build character, teamwork, and employability. Students develop leadership, communication confidence, and accountability through expectations on every field trip: asking questions, engaging with professionals, arriving early, helping set up and pack down, and showing respect through handshakes and positive participation.

Team building is reinforced through shared challenges, outdoor expeditions, competitive events, and collaborative problem-solving. Fundraising is also important, with students helping raise about $35,000 annually through activities such as apple picking, tree planting, quiz nights, potato sales, and industry-supported work opportunities. This builds ownership, responsibility, and respect for resources.

Students also contribute back to the wider community by hosting visiting schools, supporting industry events, and delivering training sessions for educators and sector partners.

The outcomes show strong transitions into meaningful pathways. The 2023 intake of 22 students moved into agricultural contracting, dairy and deer farming, fencing apprenticeships, mechanics, horticulture, and further study, demonstrating a range of successful destinations.

PIA is a standout example of how school-based learning, strong industry partnership, and practical experience can strengthen the future primary industries workforce.

Local businesses interested in supporting the next generation of primary industries talent through work placements, mentoring, sponsorship, or training opportunities are encouraged to connect directly with Geraldine High School.

Engineering Futures Built on Culture

Written by Tania on 16 July 2026. Posted in Business Success, Life in the Timaru District.

Creating a future-ready workforce starts with people who are willing to invest in others, share knowledge, and create workplaces where individuals can grow, belong and build rewarding careers.

At Bleeker & Weith, that philosophy is embedded in the company’s culture.

Managing Director James Forrest believes strong businesses are built on strong relationships. While Bleeker & Weith is recognised for its engineering expertise and contribution to the region’s industrial capability, James is equally passionate about creating opportunities for people to thrive.

“We often joke that our motto could be ‘We’re here for the weekends’,” says James. “But what we really mean is that we’re here for the lifestyle, the connections and the people. We want our team to enjoy what they’re working for.”

That sense of connection has become a defining part of the company’s culture. Whether it’s an after-work catch-up, supporting teammates through challenges, or celebrating milestones with their families, Bleeker & Weith has deliberately created an environment where people feel valued and supported.

For James, this culture is critical to attracting and retaining talent in an industry that underpins much of South Canterbury’s production, manufacturing and agricultural sectors.

“Engineering plays a vital role in the future of our region. If we’re going to keep growing, we need to invest in the next generation and create pathways that help people succeed.”

That commitment starts with apprenticeships and career development. Bleeker & Weith actively supports young people entering the industry, providing practical experience, mentoring and opportunities to progress. Many go on to build successful careers within the business, while others move into specialist roles or positions with some of the district’s leading producers and manufacturers.

The company’s investment in future talent extends beyond its workshop doors.

Each Friday, members of the Bleeker & Weith team visit South School to share practical life skills with students. From learning how to safely use tools to changing a tyre, the sessions are designed to build confidence and capability in young people.

“These kids are incredibly capable,” says James. “Sometimes they just need someone to spend a bit of time with them and show them what’s possible.”

It’s a simple initiative, but one that reflects a much bigger commitment to the community.

As Timaru District continues to strengthen pathways between education, employment and lifelong learning, businesses like Bleeker & Weith demonstrate how employers can play a leading role.

By investing in apprentices, mentoring young people and building workplaces where people genuinely belong, they are helping create the skilled, adaptable workforce our community aspires to build.

Find out more about Bleeker & Weith

Watch the video below and find out more about one of Bleeker & Weiths apprentice engineers.

From Shanghai to Timaru with Kathy Shu

Written by Tania on 16 July 2026. Posted in Life in the Timaru District.

When Kathy Shu moved from Shanghai to Timaru in 2015, with her husband Sam and young son, she was taking up a role with local business, Vendella. At the time, China was a major part of Vendella’s supply network, and Kathy’s ability to negotiate pricing, manage existing supplier relationships, and understand international procurement was a significant asset to the business. Her relationships and market knowledge continue to support Vendella’s growth, helping the business stay competitive on quality, sustainability and value.

Nearly a decade later, Timaru is home. Kathy has grown her career, Sam has retrained in civil engineering, and their family has grown to four, with their younger son born at Timaru Hospital in 2018.

“Moving halfway around the world was a big adventure for us, but it has been one of the best decisions we have made,” Kathy says. “We have built our lives here, raised our family here, and developed strong connections within the community. Timaru has given us opportunities, a great lifestyle, and a place where we truly feel at home.”

For Kathy and Sam, one of Timaru’s greatest strengths is the balance it offers: short commutes, flexible family routines, and more time together.

“One of the things we value most about living in Timaru is how easy it is to get around,” she says. “Our commute is usually less than 10 minutes, which means we spend much less time in traffic and much more time with our family. Compared to larger cities, life here feels much less rushed and stressful. Our children are involved in a range of sports and cultural activities, and it’s easy to support them without long travel times between activities.”

Career and learning opportunities have also been important. Kathy has been able to use her international expertise locally, while Sam transitioned from software and mechanical engineering into civil engineering, working for one of New Zealand’s leading civil contractors. “Having a tertiary provider like Ara in Timaru has been a real advantage, especially in terms of flexibility, language support, and range of practical programmes available,” Kathy says.

For newcomers, community support has made a lasting difference, from Gleniti Baptist Church in their early days to Multi-Cultural Aoraki and other local connections.

“What stands out about Timaru is how friendly and approachable people are,” she says. “It is relatively easy to meet people, build relationships, and become involved in community life.” That welcome has inspired the family to give back and help strengthen the same sense of belonging that supported them when they first arrived.

Outside of work, Sam and Kathy enjoy hiking, reading, and gardening, and their family is actively involved in the South Canterbury Chinese Society (SCCS), where they have built strong friendships over the years.

As Chair of the South Canterbury Chinese Society, Kathy plays an important role in keeping Chinese culture alive and visible within the Timaru community. Through the Society’s activities, Chinese families have opportunities to maintain connections to their language, traditions and cultural identity, while also sharing these with the wider community.

The Society provides an important sense of belonging for new Chinese migrants, helping families settle with confidence, knowing they can build successful lives here without losing touch with their heritage.

Kathy and Sams story shows that people of many nationalities can bring their skills, traditions and experience with them, and build successful careers, friendships and meaningful lives in the Timaru District while enriching the community around them.

For Kathy, “Timaru has given us stability, opportunity, and a strong sense of belonging,” she says, “and it has become the place we are proud to call home.”

Why Andrew Geddes returned home to Timaru

Written by Tania on 16 July 2026. Posted in Life in the Timaru District.

When Andrew Geddes returned to New Zealand after nine years overseas, he chose to come home to Timaru to grow a business in a place that offered both opportunity and quality of life. His story reflects what we know to be true about our district — Timaru is a place where ambition, innovation and lifestyle can work side by side.

After leaving high school, Andrew completed an engineering course at Ara. He speaks positively about the opportunities within the trade, encouraging young people to gain experience across a range of engineering businesses and disciplines. For Andrew, engineering has always been about solving problems, identifying opportunity and creating practical value.

That mindset underpins Machinecraft, the engineering business Andrew acquired when it was operating out of a shed at home, before steadily growing it into a company serving a broad range of sectors. Through investment in precision engineering and CNC machinery, Andrew expanded the business’s capability and helped strengthen Timaru’s wider engineering offering. Today, Machinecraft services a diverse client base, from established regional industries to major manufacturers and specialist projects, showing how a Timaru-based business can innovate, grow and compete across multiple markets.

For Andrew and his family, choosing where to settle after returning from overseas came down to more than just work. They wanted access to hunting, fishing, surfing, water sports and, most importantly, the ability to spend meaningful time together as a family. When weighing up Christchurch and Timaru, it was Timaru that stood out.

That is because Timaru offers what many businesses and families are looking for: accessibility, balance and room to thrive. Here, the commute is measured in minutes rather than hours, making it easy to move between work, school, the bay and the town centre. That convenience creates something increasingly valuable — time. Time to grow a business, time to be present for family, and time to enjoy the lifestyle that makes our district distinctive.

For the Geddes family, that lifestyle is part of everyday life. With two children, weekends are often spent exploring the district and making the most of what is close at hand. Hunting is within easy reach, the ski slopes are about an hour away, and fishing, motorbiking, surfing and other outdoor pursuits are all part of the rhythm of life here.

There is also a strong sense of connection in returning home. Andrew reflects on growing up with the Caroline Bay Carnival as a familiar part of summer — something he now gets to share with his own children. That connection between community and family, is part of what makes Timaru special.

Machinecraft’s success reflects both the diversity of Timaru’s industrial base and the global reach that a business can achieve from here. The company supports traditional sectors that are important to our district, while also contributing to projects beyond New Zealand. From specialist components for the Australian mining sector to engineered prototypes for advanced applications, Machinecraft shows that Timaru businesses can compete in diverse markets.

Andrew’s story is a strong example of what the Timaru District offers. It is a place where business growth can sit alongside family priorities, where innovation thrives, and where an active outdoor lifestyle is part of everyday life. For Andrew and his family, Timaru is the place that gives them the life they want to live.

Food Production Business Connection Group.

Written by Tania on 16 July 2026. Posted in Business Success.

Food and fibre exports are the backbone of South Canterbury’s export economy, accounting for an estimated 97% of goods exports from the region and contributing 6.7% of New Zealand’s total food and fibre exports.

The key food and fibre exports include 10% of national dairy exports, 20.5% of arable exports, 9.7% of seafood and aquaculture exports, and 4.4% of meat and wool exports.

The Food Production Business Connection Group recognises the importance of this sector coming together as a collective voice to support sustainable growth, strengthen resilience and identify the opportunities that will shape the district’s future economy.

Meeting quarterly, the group is made up of major local and global brands, including Fonterra, Oceania Dairy, Barkers, Mount Cook Alpine Salmon, Heartland Potato Chips, McCain Foods, Sanford and Mānuka Honey Collective. These meetings provide a vital forum to share knowledge, explore innovation, identify productivity opportunities and discuss emerging market trends, infrastructure needs, regulatory settings and workforce challenges.

As Timaru District’s economic development agency, Venture Timaru plays an important connector role by bringing the right people, partners and opportunities together. This includes facilitating presentations or links to funders, infrastructure providers and local decision-makers. Through this role, Venture Timaru helps ensure the sector is well supported, well connected and positioned to respond to change, including opening opportunities to adjacent or emerging industries that can support future growth.

The strength of the group lies in its willingness to collaborate openly — sharing challenges, insights and opportunities across areas such as staffing, innovation, productivity and investment. By working together, members are helping lead advocacy for positive change, strengthen business capability, grow their industries and people, and deliver lasting benefits across the wider food production ecosystem and our community.

The Coastal

Written by Tania on 16 July 2026. Posted in Life in the Timaru District.

Run the coast – chase the views! The Coastal is a celebration of scenery, challenge and community, offering a unique running and walking event set in Timaru, along the stunning east coast of New Zealand’s South Island.

Widely regarded as one of the most scenic running events in the country, the course is both beautiful and diverse – featuring a mix of packed and loose trails, roads and footpaths.

With 5km, 10km, and half marathon options, there’s a distance to suit every participant. All events start and finish at Timaru’s iconic Caroline Bay, providing the perfect setting for supporters and a vibrant location to celebrate post race.

The event is steadily gaining momentum, with 2025 recording record participation at 670 individuals, with 145% growth, of which one third of participants visiting from out of town. The vision now is to grow participation to 1,000–1,200 athletes and increase overnight visitation and visitor spend across the district.

Community involvement is central to the success of The Coastal 2025, with more than 30 volunteers contributing across race operations, course marshalling, registration and the start/finish area. The event was proudly supported by two local volunteer organisations, Rotary and the Aorangi Croquet Club, whose members played an integral role in delivering a safe and welcoming event. In recognition of their contribution, The Coastal donated more than $3,000 back to these organisations, supporting their ongoing work within the Timaru community.

Wherever possible, the event prioritises local suppliers and contractors, ensuring event expenditure remained within the South Canterbury economy. This includes infrastructure, traffic management, medical services, signage, equipment hire and other operational services, creating direct economic benefits for local businesses.

Beyond the economic impact, The Coastal strengthens community connections by bringing together volunteers, local businesses, schools, sponsors and participants to deliver an event that showcases Timaru’s hospitality and community spirit. These partnerships not only enhance the participant experience but also have helped establish The Coastal as a growing event of which the local community can continue to support and take pride.

The Coastal is run by South Island Masters Games — an incorporated non for profit society proudly based in Timaru.

Entries for the event on 16-17 October 2026 open are now open.

The Coastal 2026 | Timaru’s Scenic Running & Walking Event

Multicultural Aoraki Festival 2026

Written by Tania on 16 July 2026. Posted in Life in the Timaru District.

More than 3,000 attendees flocked to the 2026 Multicultural Aoraki Festival, along with 83 stallholders. It is regarded as Timaru’s biggest day celebrating culture and one of the region’s most anticipated community events.

The festival features a wide range of cultural performances, international food, music, community stalls, and family activities. Held on the fields at Ara, food stalls showcased flavours from the Pacific, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Europe, while cultural performances representing communities from around the world entertained the crowd.

The festival aims to bring people from different backgrounds together to celebrate, learn, and connect. Free entry and free activities, make the event accessible to everyone.

Organisers Multicultural Aoraki report that the festival helps to create a strong sense of belonging and community, with many people sharing how much they enjoyed learning about different cultures and meeting others from across the region.

This year they welcomed visitors and stallholders from outside South Canterbury, including Christchurch and Dunedin, showing the festival continues to grow in popularity.

Link to photos from the Timaru Herald

https://shorturl.at/ZDg2Z

Land Diversification & Sustainable Growth at Turley Farms

Written by Tania on 15 July 2026. Posted in Business Success, Local innovation.

For more than 50 years, the Turley family have continually adapted and diversified their farming operations, finding new ways to unlock value from South Canterbury’s productive land. From pioneering large-scale potato and onion production to developing hybrid vegetable seed crops for international markets, their success has always been about more than what happens on their own land. At the heart of their approach is a genuine commitment to creating opportunities that flow through the wider community- supporting local jobs, strengthening supply chains and helping contribute to a better quality of life for the district as a whole.

YAP Orchard, their Rockit Apple operation is a recent example of their approach to innovation and continuous focus on community and future generations. The new orchard shows how research, technology and market insight can create new opportunities while building on the strengths of generational knowledge and an established agricultural region.

Operated by Murray, Margaret and Belinda Turley, and supported by the agronomic expertise of Dominique Eastham, YAP Orchard began as a small trial block of apple varieties. After extensive evaluation, Rockit emerged as the standout performer, leading to a commercial-scale investment that has added another dimension to the family’s long-standing commitment to productive and sustainable land use.

The orchard reflects a focus on innovation at every stage of production. Trees are grown using a two-dimensional trellised system that improves light interception, enables more precise management and supports efficient harvesting. The design reduces labour requirements, allows for greater consistency across the orchard and creates opportunities for future technology adoption while maintaining high-quality fruit production.

Just as importantly, the orchard has been designed with long-term sustainability in mind. A focus on water efficiency, soil health and production systems tailored to local conditions demonstrates how innovation can reduce environmental impacts while supporting productivity. It is an approach that recognises environmental stewardship and commercial success as complementary goals.

The Turley family’s willingness to explore new opportunities reflects a broader strength of Timaru District’s primary sector. Across our district, growers and producers continue to adopt new technologies, refine production systems and diversify their operations to meet changing market demands.

For Timaru District, innovation is about building businesses that endure, improving productivity, creating sustainable outcomes and ensuring our industries, both established and new, remain competitive.

Find out more about Turley Farms

Dan Cosgrove Ltd, Diversification Driving Long-Term Success

Written by Tania on 15 July 2026. Posted in Business Success.

Across the Timaru District, many of our most successful companies are family-owned enterprises that have adapted, diversified and grown while remaining deeply connected to the region that helped shape them.

Dan Cosgrove stands as one of the district’s leading examples of how long-term investment in capability, plant and people can help a business adapt, diversify and remain resilient across changing markets.

Established in 1935 as a plumbing business, Cosgroves has grown to become one of New Zealand’s most recognised names in roofing, sheetmetal manufacturing and agricultural infrastructure. Gary Fahey, the current director and owner, purchased Dan Cosgrove Ltd twelve years ago and has continued to build on the capability already within the business.

Cosgroves’ success has been its deliberate investment in plant that supports diversification. Rather than relying on a single market or product line, the business has developed the capacity to work across construction, agriculture, roofing, sheetmetal and grain storage. That breadth of capability has helped build resilience in an economy and markets that are constantly changing.

While roofing remains a service the company is well known for throughout New Zealand, silos are now a core part of the business. Cosgroves also supports ongoing maintenance programmes for organisations such as Ravensdown.

The company’s success has also been supported by the strengths of the Timaru District itself. When asked what makes Timaru a great place to do business, Gary points to the close, collaborative nature of the community. “People are connected here, and they’re willing to help each other,” he says. “That’s been a key part of Dan Cosgroves’ success.”

That community strength sits alongside access to productive agricultural industries, skilled tradespeople, manufacturing expertise and efficient transport networks. The district’s strategic location and established infrastructure provide reliable connections to suppliers, customers and markets throughout New Zealand and the world.

Those connections are long-standing. Before purchasing Dan Cosgrove Ltd, Gary worked for BJ Scarlett, another successful engineering firm with deep community roots. He still maintains those relationships today, reflecting the way local businesses in Timaru continue to support, connect with and strengthen one another over time.

“The collaborative spirit of the Timaru District is one of our greatest strengths. Time and again, local businesses speak about the value of trusted relationships and a community that’s willing to help each other succeed. It’s an advantage that continues to strengthen our local economy.” says Nigel Davenport.

Cosgroves is not an isolated success story. Across the district, generations of business owners have built enduring enterprises by combining practical expertise with a willingness to adapt and invest for the future. Knowledge is retained, skills are developed locally and businesses benefit from a collaborative environment where innovation is supported by strong industry connections.

For investors, businesses like Cosgroves provide evidence of what is possible here. Their growth demonstrates how companies can leverage local capability, sector diversity, strategic investment and strong supply chains to create resilient, future-focused businesses. Their longevity reflects a district where businesses can succeed, endure, evolve and create value across generations.

Find out more about Dan Cosgrove

Watch the video below, Business Development Lead, Tania Stoddart discusses diversification and sustainable business growth with Gary Fahey

Heartland Potato Chips, A Timaru District Success Story Built on Local Knowledge and Investment

Written by Tania on 15 July 2026. Posted in Business Success.

Across Timaru District, many successful businesses share common foundations: strong local ownership, deep industry knowledge, trusted supply chains and a willingness to invest for the long term. Heartland Potato Chips is one example of how these strengths come together to create sustainable growth.

Today, Heartland Potato Chips is recognised by consumers throughout New Zealand and stocked in major supermarkets nationwide. Based in Timaru District’s Washdyke Industrial Hub, the business demonstrates how local investment, integrated supply chains and generations of farming expertise can create value well beyond the farm gate.

The Heartland story began in 2009 when a major food manufacturer exited Timaru as part of a national restructuring programme. Rather than seeing the closure as a setback, the Bowan family recognised an opportunity to retain food manufacturing capability within the district. By acquiring the facility and establishing Heartland Potato Chips, they invested in Timaru’s future while creating a platform for long-term growth.

At the heart of the business is Fallgate Farm, which recently celebrated 50 years of family ownership. The Bowan family continues to work across both farming and manufacturing operations, creating a direct connection between production and processing. Potatoes grown on the family farm travel just 30 kilometres to the Washdyke factory, where they are transformed into products enjoyed by New Zealanders nationwide.

This proximity between growers, processors and markets is one of Timaru District’s strengths. Integrated supply chains support quality, traceability and resilience while reducing transport requirements and strengthening operational efficiency.

The business also reflects the value of generational knowledge and succession planning. While Raymond and Adrienne Bowan remain actively involved, the next generation now leads key areas of the operation, combining decades of farming experience with contemporary business leadership.

Spend time with the Bowan family and you’ll quickly understand a characteristic shared by many successful Timaru District businesses. There is a genuine passion for what they do, a willingness to roll up their sleeves and a long-term commitment to both their business and community. These values have helped build trusted relationships, support sustainable growth and create businesses that continue to evolve across generations.

Heartland’s growth has been supported by the wider business ecosystem that exists within Timaru District. Access to productive agricultural land, skilled employees, specialised engineering services, logistics providers and established food manufacturers creates an environment where businesses can scale with confidence.

Heartland Potato Chips has become a source of pride for the district, reflecting the capability, resilience and ambition found across our business community. For investors exploring opportunities in Timaru District, it demonstrates what is possible when local knowledge, strategic investment and connected supply chains come together in a district built for long-term growth.

Find out more about Heartland Chips

Juice Products New Zealand, Scaling Global Markets from Timaru District

Written by Tania on 15 July 2026. Posted in Business Success.

Across Timaru District, many businesses demonstrate how strong supply chains, strategic investment and access to world-class natural resources can create opportunities well beyond New Zealand’s borders. Juice Products New Zealand (JP-NZ) is one example of how businesses can grow from regional roots to become globally significant exporters.

Based within the Washdyke Industrial Hub, JP-NZ has grown into one of New Zealand’s largest carrot processors and a leading international supplier of premium carrot juice concentrates. Exporting to markets across Asia, North America and Australasia, the company recently celebrated processing its one millionth metric tonne of carrots, a milestone that reflects decades of investment, innovation and growth.

JP-NZ’s journey also highlights one of Timaru District’s key strengths: the ability to support businesses through every stage of development, from entrepreneurial beginnings to international expansion and global investment.

Recognising the long-term potential of South Canterbury, the company’s directors made the strategic decision to relocate operations to Washdyke and invest in a purpose-built processing facility. That investment created the foundation for future growth, allowing the business to expand production, strengthen customer relationships and build a reputation in international markets.

As the company continued to grow, international investment followed. Sumitomo Corporation’s acquisition of the business reflected confidence not only in JP-NZ, but also in the region’s production capability, skilled workforce and business environment. Importantly, management and sales functions were also relocated to Timaru, reinforcing the district’s role as a centre for leadership, innovation and strategic decision-making.

For investors, JP-NZ demonstrates how businesses can successfully scale from Timaru District while remaining connected to the resources and relationships that underpin long-term success.

A key part of that success is the company’s collaborative approach to supply chain management. JP-NZ works closely with local growers and suppliers to identify suitable carrot varieties, coordinate planting programmes and manage harvest schedules. These partnerships create certainty across the supply chain, support consistent product quality and enable the business to respond effectively to market demand.

This close collaboration between producers, processors and exporters is a characteristic shared by many successful businesses across the district. Long-term relationships, trusted partnerships and proximity between suppliers and manufacturers help create resilience, improve efficiency and support sustainable growth.

JP-NZ also benefits from operating within one of New Zealand’s most concentrated food production ecosystems. The Washdyke Industrial Hub brings together manufacturers, exporters, logistics providers and specialist service companies, creating an environment where businesses can innovate, collaborate and scale with confidence. Combined with reliable transport connections and access to international markets, these advantages continue to support investment and growth across the district.

JP-NZ’s evolution from a growing regional processor to a globally significant exporter demonstrates what can be achieved when strategic investment is supported by strong infrastructure, connected supply chains and access to high-quality agricultural resources.

For businesses looking to expand production, access export markets or establish a foothold in New Zealand, Timaru District offers a proven environment for growth. JP-NZ is one example of how businesses can scale successfully from South Canterbury while attracting the confidence of international investors and customers around the world.

Find out more about JPNZ

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Author: Tania