- 1 Apr 2026
- By ofpanzadmin
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This is the third year we’ve run our industry benchmarking survey, and each year the insights get more valuable. The only catch? We need more of you to take part so the results really mean something. If you haven’t filled it in yet, please take a few minutes to complete the survey. The results will
There’s something pretty special about getting a group of people from the same industry in the same place, at the same time. Ideas get shared, problems get solved, new relationships start, and you suddenly realise that the challenges you’re facing in your business are often the same ones others are working through too. And in
This year, one of our long-standing industry suppliers, W Wiggins, marks an extraordinary 160 years in business. Another, Shann NZ marks 70 years in business and Reid & Twiname celebrated 100 years just last year. In an industry shaped by changing materials, evolving technology, and shifting markets, reaching a milestone of that scale is no
We would like to warmly welcome Craig Smith from Custom Marine Canvas as our newest member of the association. Craig brings a wealth of knowledge from the marine sector and, as many of you will discover, plenty of great stories from his years in the industry. Craig is passionate about keeping the industry moving forward
A real buzz filled the room at the MAST Academy graduation in March, as a record number of graduates gathered at the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron on 4 March 2026. Surrounded by proud families, employers, and industry partners, the evening was a celebration not just of achievement, but of the future of our industries.
Long drives between jobs. Time in the ute. Early morning walks or an afternoon workout. For many in our industry, these moments are perfect opportunities to learn, stay inspired, or simply hear how others are tackling the same challenges we face every day. Podcasts have become one of the easiest and most flexible ways to
At the beginning of March, the Apprenticeship Sub Committee took a close look at our current apprenticeship numbers, and the results tell an encouraging story about the future of our industry. Right now, we have: One of the most interesting things we noticed was the age range. Our youngest apprentice is 17 and our oldest
The Advanced Textiles Association New Zealand (ATA NZ) entered 29 projects from its Awards for Excellence into the global competition, which has celebrated innovation and design in specialty fabrics for more than 75 years. Sponsored by the Advanced Textiles Association (ATA) in North America—formerly known as IFAI—the IAA competition showcases the best in technical skill,
As we prepare for another year of growth and collaboration across Aotearoa’s industrial textiles sector, the ATA New Zealand Executive has set a clear direction for 2026. Our focus remains on strengthening the value we deliver to members, amplifying the skills and innovation within our industry, and ensuring our sector continues to thrive. Below is
Supporting the next generation of skilled fabricators is at the heart of ATA New Zealand’s mission. As we continue to promote apprenticeships and share the stories of those moving through the pipeline, we recently caught up with Adri Hayden of Canvas and Covers Whangārei, who has just completed her Level 3 Industrial Textiles Fabrication qualification

