New Zealand has developed a specialisation for innovative niche production in engineering and manufacturing. In the South Waikato this sector is already building a reputation for excellence and has started to create more opportunities for innovation and continual improvement.

The central north island is the most developed forestry region in New Zealand, with around 550,000 hectares of planted production forest. Around half of the land area in the South Waikato District is covered in planted exotic forest, mostly Pinus Radiata. Major businesses in the area include Carter Holt Harvey’s flagship operations in forest management, pulp and paper production and ply wood. Although Carter Holt Harvey are converting 20,000 hectares to the Dairy industry this is not expected to result in a reduction in output in this sector.

New Zealand is a world leader in international dairying, accounting for around 35% of the world’s traded dairy products. South Waikato District with its lush pastures has for many years been the base for a prosperous farming industry. Diversification from traditional dairying to a more mixed regime including deer, goats and ostrich, is being developed in the District.