Manufacturing and Engineering
The Eastern Bay of Plenty has a well-established and future-focused manufacturing sector that supports the region’s core industries - from forestry and dairy to marine and food production. In 2023, manufacturing contributed approximately $332 million to the regional economy, making up 13.6% of total GDP, and employed around 1,580 people across the Eastern Bay (Infometrics, 2024; Census, 2023).
Local firms produce everything from sustainable packaging and pulp products to marine equipment and high-precision components. These operations are underpinned by a strong network of engineering and mechanical services, creating opportunities in fabrication, maintenance, logistics, product design and sustainable innovation.
Key employers and sector strengths:
- Whakatāne Mill Limited (WML) produces high-quality folding boxboard for international markets and is a national leader in low-emission, sustainable packaging.
- The industrial zone of Kawerau is a regional hub, home to major employers like Oji Fibre Solutions (Tasman Mill), Essity, and Carter Holt Harvey, supporting hundreds of jobs in production, maintenance and logistics.
- Engineering and repair services across the district play a critical role in forestry, pulp and paper, agriculture, and marine sectors, offering careers in welding, fitting, diagnostics and mechanical design.
Why work in manufacturing and engineering here?
- Wide range of career paths - from trades and apprenticeships to mechanical engineering, production planning and automation
- Strong links to major industries like forestry, aquaculture and food processing
- Ongoing investment in modernisation and low-carbon technology
- A skilled, supportive workforce and a region that values innovation and practical problem-solving