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Should New Zealand do more to keep manufacturing jobs here?

2 June 2026

The possible closure of two timber mills in Kaitāia has put around 200 jobs at risk and raised concerns about the future of manufacturing in regional New Zealand. Locals fear the loss would ripple through the wider community, affecting families, businesses and the local economy. Some worry it could push more people to leave for bigger cities or even Australia in search of work.

It’s not the only recent manufacturing loss. Heinz Wattie’s confirmed the closure of several of its sites in Auckland, Christchurch, and Dunedin in March. There were also several closures in the industry in 2025, including Carter Holt Harvey shutting its operations in Tokoroa & Tasman and Oji Fibre Solutions ceasing manufacturing at Kinleith Mill.

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Source: Stuff

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