Stats & Survey

There are two characteristics that make the New Zealand plastics industry unique. First it is a processing industry - no polymer resins are manufactured in New Zealand - they are all imported. Secondly it produces a higher proportion of packaging products in comparison to other developed nations.

A significant amount of plastic manufactured in New Zealand is exported as packaging for New Zealand dairy, meat and horticultural products. With over 53% of New Zealand's plastic product manufacture in packaging we are experts and innovators in this arena.

The New Zealand plastic industry is responsive, versatile and innovative. With technical excellence and a can do attitude New Zealand manufacturers take on and meet challenges many others won't even consider.

New Zealand plastic manufacturers process plastic resin into a huge variety of products ranging from special multi-layer films for packaging, to automotive and electrical parts, specialised products for the agricultural and construction industries, medical equipment, and a host of other items.

The country's manufacturers have fantastic skill and expertise in producing specialist tooling and plastic components. Many of these products are exported in home appliances and electrical products.

We work while you sleep

Being close to the International Date line, as New Zealand is, can be an huge advantage. Whilst many major developed countries of the world are sleeping we are just a click away - access to Internet and e-mail means communication and business with New Zealand is fast and efficient. The answer to your problem could be there when you switch your computer on in the morning or your order on its way.

To lodge a trade enquiry with member companies go to www.plasticsnz.com.

 

World-wide Growth

New Zealand has quadrupled exports of plastic products in recent years, from $80m in 1990, to approximately $335m in 2000, to approximately xxx in 2008. In addition up to half as much again is exported indirectly, i.e., as packaging or components for other export industries, in particular for meat, dairy and horticultural produce.

To find out more on the subject of Plastics – the types, Plastic Identification codes, manufacturing process, uses and future technologies as well as information about the Plastics Industry in New Zealand please take a look at this section. We have also included a Schools Resources segments and useful links page to various other Plastics Sites around the world.