JOINERS Magazine December 2025

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Joinery, Cabinetmaking & Kitchen Manufacturing Industries

December 2025

tree house

Wackrows joinery win supreme award

Handles

materials & styles

panel solutions storing, retrieving, machining

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JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 2

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Open houses 14 COVER Supreme Award winner from Wackrow’s Joinery see story p.24 Photo courtesy Wackrow’s Joinery.

Auckland machinery suppliers Biesse, Farnese and Jacks all invited clients to showroom machinery displays on the same two days in midSeptember. We report on what all described as very successful events.

COLUMNS

Master Joiner awards 22

Master Joiners 4

Regional awards, Category awards, Apprentice awards and the overall Supreme and Premier awards have been decided for another year. We have pics of all the winning entries and commentary on some.

Nathan Moore speaks of the challenges currently facing the industry and the need to remain focused, professional and connected.

Laminex Update 12 Rachel Silcock reflects on the critical nature of people in the success of our industry and the need to ensure pathways for new talent to enter.

NKBA news 76 Rachael Kwok presents the NKBA predictions for 2026 along with comments from members on materials, colours, trends and costs.

polytec in NZ 34 Australian decorative surfaces supplier polytec have crossed the ditch promising local manufacturers more choice in decorative panels and benchtops.

We look at the product and the people.

Steering a Course 80 Ian Featherstone lists a number of common themes that have challenged over the past year and provides some suggestions that might help in 2026.

Safety Series 91 Laminex offer sage advice as we move into the holiday season and provides a health check list to encourage personal and employee safety.

REGULAR News & Info 4 - 20 State of the Industry 82 NZJMF membership 84 Classifieds 92

Handle selection 38 In a repeat of previous years we present our Christmas handles special, of the popular, the trending and the practical to assist in completing your cabinetry and furniture projects.

Handling panel 56 Bulky to store and heavy to handle, panel can be a logistical and physical choke point. From automated storage systems to jib cranes and vacuum lifters we look at options to handle panel efficiently and safely.

Advertiser index 92

A conversation with veneer specialist Johnny Dobbyn - p.48 JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 3

from the president 20.11.2025

Navigating challenges and staying united

Winner Master Joiners Auckland Regional Award - Grandvue Joinery. p.30

As we approach the end of 2025, it’s a time for reflection, and for realism.

The past six – twelve months have been some of the most challenging our industry has faced in recent memory.

of professional joinery, challenging poor practices, and supporting each other to uphold the standards that define our craft. We also need to keep professionalism front and centre, because when times are tough, reputation matters more than ever.

Unfortunately, we’ve seen several joinery businesses forced to close their doors during this period, a sobering reminder of the pressures many are under. These closures underscore the need for resilience, collaboration, and a renewed focus on quality as we navigate what lies ahead.

Despite the headwinds, there are reasons to remain positive. The South Island’s resilience is encouraging, and across the country, there is a strong sense of community among joiners. Now more than ever, connection matters. Whether through regional meetings, peer support, or simply picking up the phone, let’s keep the lines of communication open. When we share ideas and resources, we strengthen not just individual businesses, but the industry as a whole.

Across the country, the picture is mixed. The North Island continues to feel the brunt of the slowdown, with workloads and confidence at concerning levels. In contrast, the South Island shows some signs of optimism, though no region is immune to the challenges. The next six months will be tough for most, with the Christmas shutdown looming and tax obligations early in the new year adding further strain to already tight margins.

One of the most pressing issues we face is the growing presence of below par imported and non compliant products in the market.

These substandard materials compromise the integrity of our work and erode trust in the industry. Coupled with workmanship concerns that have surfaced in some areas, these factors threaten the reputation we’ve worked so hard to build. Cutting corners might seem tempting in difficult times, but it’s never the answer. Our commitment to excellence is what sets us apart, and it’s what will carry us through.

As Master Joiners, we must continue to advocate for compliance and quality standards.

This means educating clients about the value

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 4

Looking ahead to 2026, recovery will take time, but opportunities will come. By focusing on quality, compliance, and professionalism, we can position ourselves strongly for the upturn.

I encourage every member to stay engaged, reach out, share your challenges, and lean on the network we’ve built together. This is what Master Joiners is all about: unity, shared purpose, and collective progress.

All the best for the run into Xmas, we will see you on the other side.

Nathan Moore National President, Master Joiners

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JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 5

from the Publisher

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The magazine for the joinery, cabinetmaking & kitchen manufacturing industries Official Publication of the New Zealand Joinery Manufacturers Federation

Editor Michael Goddard michael@joiners.net.nz

Great Conference & Awards in times of change

Publisher

A

Bob Nordgren bob@joiners.net.nz

nother summer, another Christmas on it’s way. It has been an interesting winter especially with the three, two day open houses held by Biesse, Farnese and Jacks in Auckland in mid October. Signs of green shoot? Maybe. Certainly there was genuine interest at all three events. People were looking carefully and no doubt comparing. It will be interesting to see what both the suppliers and potential customers do over the next six months or so.

For the Master Joiners the big event was of course the Annual Conference and the announcement of the Master Joiners Award winners for 2025. The Rotorua Events centre was a good choice of venue for the event. What caught my eye were two other venues used : the Scion centre for the Gathering and Te Puia, an iconic cultural venue for the Awards evening on the Saturday night. Impressive sites, both of them. Hats off to Allison Delaney and her team at Master Joiners.

Congrats to all the winners and in particular, the big winners Wackrows Joinery for the Supreme Award and Carlielle Kitchens for the Premier Award. We cover the Supreme Award in this issue (and all the other winners) and then the Premier Award in detail in our March 2026 issue. As always a great thank you to all the sponsors without which this doesn’t happen.

Hey I’ve got to say a big shout out for all the Apprentice Award winners. This industry goes nowhere without them. That is why the magazine has supported the Apprentice Awards every year for thirty years on the trot now.

The feature on handling and storing panel is important. It’s a subject which sits in the background but is really important for the smooth running of the industries we follow especially the cabinetmaking sector. Makes for interesting reading to see what is available out there. It comes at a time when a new supplier comes to market in polytec. This is in my view an exciting development for the New Zealand marketplace. Competition makes for more choice. We round off with what has become our annual pictorial nod to the handles market, an important aspect of the kitchen and furniture making process.

The Conference and Awards were once again a real success.

This comes from both the involvement of sponsors and all the Master Joiner members who entered the various Awards.

A big thank you to all of you. The combination is what makes it work. Finally, Michael and I would like to wish everyone a Merry Xmas and a Happy New Year and look forward to doing all again next year!

Bob Nordgren

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 6

M 42 Aldersgate Rd, Box 27-513, Mt. Roskill, Auckland, 1440.

Ph: +64-9-624 4680

Subscriptions & Mailings bob@joiners.net.nz

JOINERS Magazine Online www.joiners.co.nz

PRINTERS

DISTRIBUTORS

ISSN 1173-6836 JOINERS Magazine is the official publication of the New Zealand Joinery Manufacturers Federation. It is distributed to members of the joinery, cabinetmaking and kitchen manufacturing industries and is published quarterly in March, June, September and December. Advertising statements or editorial opinion are not necessarily those of the publisher, its staff, the New Zealand Joinery Manufacturers Federation Inc., or their executives, unless expressly stated. All articles printed in JOINERS Magazine are subject to copyright and cannot be reproduced without the express consent of the Publisher or the authors therein. Advertisements and articles are accepted without liability as to the accuracy or otherwise of the factual matters represented.

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Hettich poised for 2026

Growth, innovation & partnership Sources & References 1. National Construction Pipeline Report 2024 Forecasts a return to growth in New Zealand’s construction sector from 2026, with total activity projected to rise to $63.7 billion by 2029.

2. NZIER Consensus Forecasts – September 2025 Predicts GDP growth of 1.5% in 2026 and a recovery in household spending, supporting demand in residential and interiors markets.

Team Hettich NZ

With New Zealand’s construction and interiors sectors entering a recovery phase in 2026, Hettich is ready to support the industry with expanded product solutions, reliable supply, and deep market insight.

Managing Director Rob Deed notes that while a return to positive growth in the construction sector appears increasingly likely in 2026, the reverberations of 2025’s contraction on the industry particularly in downstream trades like interiors - require suppliers to strike a careful balance.

“Consistency, responsiveness, and long-term thinking will be key to supporting our customers through this transitional period,” he says.

Industry Outlook After a challenging 2025, the New Zealand construction industry is forecast to grow at an average annual rate of 4% from 2026 to 2029, driven by major infrastructure investments and a recovering residential market.

Residential building activity is expected to rise 7.9%, while nonresidential construction will grow by 6.0%, supported by government investment in transport, health, and education.

Government infrastructure investment - addressing a $210 billion deficit - is expected to drive

sustained construction activity, while easing inflation, improving consumer confidence, and a projected GDP growth of 1.5% in 2026 signal a broader economic recovery. Meanwhile, ANZ is forecasting a 5% rise in house prices and QV data showing early signs of stabilisation, indicating the housing market is expected to rebound in 2026.

The interiors market is also set for expansion, with the New Zealand interior design sector projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 5% through 2030.

Renovation and remodeling are leading the charge, as homeowners and developers seek smarter, more sustainable, and more personalised spaces.

What to look for in a supplier partner in 2026 As the market becomes more competitive and customer expectations rise, choosing the right supplier is critical. Trade professionals should seek partners who offer: ● Reliability: Consistent product quality, dependable delivery, and responsive support. ● Innovation: A forwardthinking approach to design, sustainability, and smart functionality. ● Collaboration: Training, comarketing, and technical support that empower your business.

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 8

● Global Expertise, Local Insight: The ability to translate international trends into locally relevant solutions.

What to expect from Hettich in the next 12 months ● Digital Enablement: Enhancing our online tools, configurators, and technical resources to streamline specification and installation. ● Product Innovation: Launching new products that reflect global design trends for premium interior projects - think new generations of integrated lighting for drawers, spinlines, and hinges. ● Steady and Competitive Pricing and Partnership: In 2026, Hettich remains committed to delivering the consistency our customers value. Expect transparent communication on where growth opportunities exist and proactive collaboration to help you capture that growth. ● A New Brand for Smart Value Builds: With the first product releases from recently acquired FGV, Hettich is set to make this brand more accessible for New Zealand customers.

For Sales enquiries Our friendly customers service team 0800 438 842 | sales-nz@hettich. com Or reach out to your Territory Manager for more information Visit www.designwithhettich.co.nz

3. Building Industry Update Q4 2025 Indicates cautious optimism for 2026, with commercial and infrastructure builds gaining traction and material costs easing.

4. Cotality Home Value Index – September 2025 Shows early signs of recovery in the property market, with increased sales and listings, and expectations for growth into 2026.

5. ANZ Property Focus – October 2025 Forecasts 5% house price growth in 2026, driven by easing interest rates and a cyclical economic recovery.

6. QV House Price Index – September 2025 Provides regional insights into property value trends, showing stabilisation and modest growth in key areas.

7. New Zealand Interior Design Market Size & Outlook - 2024/2025 Projects growth trends in New Zealand’s Interior Design Market using 2024 as the base data year.

8. EBOSS Pulse Report – October 2025 Highlights signs of stabilisation in the construction sector, with building consents steady and infrastructure projects gaining momentum.

9. Oxford Economics October 2025 New Zealand Construction Outlook, Q3 2025: Construction dips in 2025 before rebounding strongly in 2026.

DETAILS CREATE THE EXPERIENCE. AvanTech YOU Illumination The smallest pieces of hardware can deliver the biggest moments of delight. The 2026 generation of AvanTech YOU Illumination can now be paired with wooden drawers.

Premium hardware for exceptional cabinetry. www.designwithhettich.co.nz JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 9

NEW agency

Woodfast Timeline setting global standards in the woodworking industry 1941 - Woodfast Machinery began on June 11, 1941, when two young toolmakers John Hagan and Bonar Powell established a small tool manufacturing company in Woodville. South Australia under the name 'P&H Tools SA’.

1944 - The first woodworking machine a small belt and disc sander, was manufactured in 1944 and marketed under the trade name Woodfast. This was followed by a 100mm (4") buzzer (Jointer) and later by a very successful 14" cast iron frame Bandsaw.

1946 - In 1946, a 6" Jointer was added to the range and it was decided to discontinue the manufacture of engineer's hand tools and to concentrate on woodworking machinery. Also in 1946, John Hagan became the sole proprietor of the company which is still owned by his family.

Designed in Australia Manufactured in China Suited for New Zealand Auckland woodworking machinery supplier Machines R Us are pleased to introduce the Woodfast range of woodworking machinery to the New Zealand market. Designed to meet the needs of woodworking professional the range is robust, reliable and packed with features while remaining at very competitive prices.

The Woodfast range whose origins date back to 1941 in South Australia includes a wide array of saws, thicknessers, planers, sanders and lathes which have consistently met and set the standard in the global woodworking industry.

The machinery is currently manufactured in China and is the only Chinese imported woodworking machinery range which arrives onshore with full CE Certificate ratings valid across Europe and in Australia and New Zealand. This means all safety criteria such as wiring systems and health and safety considerations are compliant with New Zealand regulations which is rather unique in the New Zealand market with product from China.

Machines R Us Managing Director John Fleet says the Woodfast range enables them to offer quality machinery to all price points across the woodworking sector.

“We are delighted to bring this range of time proven machinery to New Zealand, its quality of build and performance along with competitive pricing fits well with the other premium brands we are agents for in New Zealand and enables us to offer our clients real value taking into account their budget and manufacturing requirements.”

The range has created a lot of interest locally with Machines R Us reporting strong interest from local woodworkers and kitchen manufacturers.

1950 - It was not until 1950, however, that the name of the company was changed to Woodfast Machinery Co. a reflection of the progress that had been made in serving the great demand for woodworking machinery after World War II. October, 1950, bought the Port Road property.

1963 - In 1963, extensions gave the factory a total area of 270,000 square feet and by June, 1965, the number of employees had grown to 61. By then, the firm was producing 21 different machines. These not only enjoyed good sales throughout Australia but, in addition, 12% of the total production was being exported.

1980 - By 1980, the factory floor space had grown to 360,000 square feet and plans were being made to design and erect a new showrooms and administration complex on the Port Rd. frontage which was completed by 1984.

1984 - In 1984, Mr. Hagan retired from the role of Managing Director having led the development of the company for more than 40 years. He was replaced by Mr Bronte Edwards.

2004 - In 2004 Woodfast Machinery Co. was sold to QCR China manufacturing company the following in total: The design and manufacturing rights for two woodturning lathes, Models C-1000 and M910. Also the singular word only Woodfast in horizontal font.

2014 - Woodfast was registered as a trademark by Qingdao Jinling Electric Company (QCR) of Qingdao China.

2018 - Tony Mirabile, CEO and founding director of Beyond Tools (established in 1986, formerly known as For Wood Tools and Machinery Sales) and of wholesale company Jaccra Industries, becomes the CEO of Woodfast Australia Pty Ltd. In this role, he is responsible for distributing Woodfast products throughout Australia and the Asia-Pacific region.

2022 - QCR (China) partnered with Jaccra Industries (Australia) to further develop and enhance the Woodfast product line. Jaccra Industries now manages the distribution of Woodfast products in Australia. Asia Pacific and expanding into the European market and globally - expanding market reach and integrating advanced technologies.

2025 - Woodfast remains a leading name in woodworking machinery, known for its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, backed by the support and resources of Jaccra Industries.

For more info phone 09 820 9486, go to www.machinesrus.co.nz, or visit Machines R Us in their new showroom at 13 Patiki Rd in Avondale, Auckland

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 10

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Laminex New Zealand™

update

S

ince my last column, I was lucky to have attended my second Master Joiners Conference in Rotorua. Often, we get caught in the day-to-day, so it was important to carve out the time to connect and celebrate with customers, including having some robust conversations on the future of the industry and the influences – one of which is people.

People are a critical component to business success and many customers I spoke to had spoken to the pipeline of talent into the industry, or lack thereof, and the significant impact when the highly experienced leaves their business. This poses the question, as a supply partner, what does our role look like in supporting talent and the industry?

Catch summer with Blum Blum is kicking off summer with a bit of fun — we’re giving away 100 frisbees to the industry! Be one of the first 100 to scan the QR code and fill in your company delivery details, and a frisbee will be on its way to you. No strings attached — we won’t save or use your details for anything other than getting your frisbee to your door. www.blum.com

We’re proud to have gone live in November with He Rito, a twoweek work experience pilot programme at our Auckland DC. ‘He Rito’ means heart of the flax and the intent is to provide a future for Maori and Pacific students. The pilot included talking to students at Mt Roskill High School about the opportunities, led by our Auckland DC Manager, Sue Evans, and Inwards Goods Supervisor, Vaughan Pauli; who also interviewed the top candidates. We selected three students to attend the two-week programme at our DC (working half days) to understand what goes on in a warehouse and what opportunities could exist after they finish school. We are hoping this pilot to be a success so it can become permanent, as we need more visibility of the opportunities and possibilities amongst the upcoming generation in an industry that helps build NZ. Last month we celebrated an incredible milestone, 40 years of service from one of our most respected and long standing team members at Laminex Particle Board Plant Taupō, Roy Goddard.

He has held many roles from Foreman to Training Manager, but currently leads the production line, what he loves most for more than 20+ years. We’re fortunate to have many people like Roy who are passionate about what they do and lead our business.

We’re thankful for Roy’s leadership and contribution to Laminex.

I’d like to highlight Michelle Moffitt, our National Sales Manager.

From day one, Michelle has immersed herself in the industry, building strong customer connections through meetings, attending the Master Joiners Conference, and engaging at other key events.

Her customer-first approach has already made a real impact, with more fresh ideas to come in 2026.

IKEA choose SCM A recent sale by NZ SCM agent Machines R Us of a Nova SI 400 3200mm sliding table saw to the new IKEA store in Auckland was one of their easier ones. “IKEA have a global policy of buying SCM,” says Machine R Us director John Fleet. “So when they needed a sliding saw for their Auckland store they came to see us. With 500 odd stores across more than 60 countries the policy is a testament to the reliability of the SCM brand and the regard it is held in globally.”

Auckland IKEA shop carpenter Tui Niwa who is a joiner by trade says he can see why IKEA choose SCM. He uses the saw for a wide variety of tasks involved in the ongoing fit out and renewal of displays within the store and likes its simplicity of setup, ease of use and exceptional accuracy. 

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 12

As the festive season approaches, our team will be taking a welldeserved break over the holidays. You can find our operating hours at laminex.co.nz/holiday-hours.

This year has brought its challenges and opportunities, often challenging our mindset. From me personally and on behalf of our entire team, thank you for your continued support. I wish you and your family a safe and revitalising break over Christmas and the New Year, with a positive 2026.

Rachel Silcock General Manager Laminex New Zealand

Michelle Moffitt appointed Laminex NZ National Sales Manager I am thrilled to join the team at Laminex NZ and build on the great work and momentum for 2025 and beyond. Having worked across several industries both here in NZ and abroad, across different roles spanning sales and marketing, I am excited to bring the skills gathered and inject some fresh ideas and energy into our business.

Michelle Moffitt

What are some of your goals for the next 12 months in the role?

Customer centricity is a key driver for our success, so it’s important we maintain open dialogue and gather customer feedback on how we can continually improve to support them.

As a team we are committed to working in partnership with our customers to deliver our

core products and make it easy to do business with us. A key objective for myself and the team over the next 12 months will be ensuring we are supporting our customers whilst delivering operational excellence.

I am enjoying meeting many of our customers and look forward to meeting more over the next few months. We appreciate that service will set us apart and we are grateful for our valued customers choosing our quality products. I look forward to updating the industry on what we are up to at Laminex as we innovate and evolve. 

Biesse appoints Peter Worrell as New Customer Care Director for Australia and New Zealand Biesse, a global leader in manufacturing integrated lines and machines for processing wood, glass, stone, metal and advanced materials, is proud to announce the appointment of Peter Worrell as Customer Care Director for Australia and New Zealand.

Peter joins Biesse with more than two decades of experience across operations, engineering and customer service. Beginning his career as an aerospace engineer, he has a strong history of leading technical teams, implementing maintenance strategies and driving customer initiatives.

In his new role, Peter will focus on strengthening Biesse’s customer care operations, developing the company’s preventative maintenance programs, enhancing service and parts delivery efficiency, and ensuring that every Biesse customer receives premium support for the life of their machine ownership.

Peter Worrell.

Michael Bullock, Biesse Australia and New Zealand CEO says “Customer Care is at the heart of Biesse’s commitment to its customers.

Peter’s experience and leadership will play an important part in elevating our service experience and delivering even greater value to our customers.”

Commenting on his appointment, Peter said: “Biesse is a globally respected brand known for its quality, innovation and customer experience. I’m excited to join a team that shares my passion for excellence and customer satisfaction, and I look forward to building on Biesse’s current service foundation.”

Peter’s appointment reinforces Biesse’s strategic commitment to delivering premium support and partnerships with Biesse customers and across its multi-material industries.

Biesse.com

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 13

A good day had by all Farnese NZ Ltd’s recent two-day open house event, held at their Auckland showroom in Ellerslie, was hailed as a resounding success by General Manager Rob Hutchings. The event showcased a variety of machinery from Farnese’s renowned range, including several of their top-performing models as well as Edge Banders from their Fravol range.

“The goal of this event was to provide our customers with the opportunity to get handson experience with the machinery we offer,” Rob explains. “It was clear from the turnout that many attendees were serious about making purchases, which made for some very productive conversations.”

The feedback from visitors was overwhelmingly positive, with several new sales resulting from the event. Rob shared that Farnese NZ is keen to continue expanding this open house concept in the future, possibly collaborating with other machinery suppliers to create an even bigger event for the joinery sector.

Farnese NZ, which was formerly known as Proform CNC Ltd, has made significant strides in growing its presence in the local market.

In addition to their comprehensive range of woodworking machinery, the company has also seen strong demand for their accessories catering to the stone cutting industry. “We’ve made great inroads into the stone cutting market here in New Zealand, and this side of our business is really taking off,” says Rob. The event was also supported by other industry partners, including Robertson & Sinclair Ltd and software specialists Joinery IT, adding further value for attendees. Attendees were treated to great weather and good food, making the event not only informative but enjoyable as well.

With more developments and exciting initiatives on the horizon for Farnese NZ we will be eagerly awaiting what their next event will bring. 

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 14

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JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 15

Biesse organised tours to Next Level Joinery, DBJ Furniture, Kitchen Mania and Linea Stone to demonstrate cutting edge Biesse technology processing different materials in a variety of manufacturing operations.

Biesse showroom in Wiri, Auckland.

Biesse’s Material Days one company multiple applications An open house in mid-October for machinery supplier Biesse at their showroom in the Auckland suburb of Wiri reflected the company’s recent branding reset with its emphasis on the latest technologies for processing across a number of materials including wood, glass, stone, plastic and composites.

A steady flow over the two days saw clients and potential clients from around the country view working demonstrations of a range of Biesse machines cutting multiple materials on-site and being given the option to visit four prominent companies around Auckland. Next Level Joinery, DBJ Furniture, Kitchen Mania and Linea Stone were each selected to display cutting edge Biesse technology processing different materials in a variety of manufacturing operations.* Sales Director for Biesse Australia & New Zealand, Lee Barlow said the branding reset reflected the multi material nature of the company and they wanted to ensure the branding made that clear. “Wood is still our core but glass, stone, composites and metal have become very important.

We found that both locally and internationally we had many customers using multi-materials across their projects and having a strong presence in all materials enables us to provide for their machinery requirements across their production activity.”

Biesse Australia and New Zealand Sales Director Lee Barlow and Communications Director Diane Tannous at the Material Days event in Auckland.

Recent acquisitions by Biesse have strengthened this presence.

“With our Intermac range we have long been known for our ability to cut and process stone and glass,” says Lee,” but the purchase of Italian companies GMM and Bavelloni over the last few years have significantly added to our glass and stone portfolio, with GMM being the world leader in Bridge Saws for cutting stone and Bavelloni being renowned experts in glass cutting and processing.

Both companies meshed well with our own range filling any gaps in our portfolio and providing a complete service to our clients.”

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 16

Service has also been an important part of the reset. “Biesse has always been very conscious of the importance of after sales service,” says newly appointed Customer Care Director Peter Worrell. “But we are looking to be even more active and efficient in this area ensuring our staff have the right skills through training, upskilling and improved product knowledge.

We will also be talking to our clients on the value of preventative maintenance, helping them to pro actively anticipate the timing of such things as seal and bearing replacements for instance, which effectively reduces and takes control of machinery downtime.”

Visitors also had the opportunity to talk with trade partners across the associated sectors of panel product, software, tooling and dust extraction, and of course once again to experience Biesse’s renowned Italian hospitality with a lunch menu of woodfired pizza, pasta and seafood dishes.

The two day function was rounded off on the Thursday night with a function at Blum’s showroom on Rosedale Rd, a wind down for both hosts and clients over a drink and light refreshments.

* With a $50 fee for those taking a factory tour matched by Biesse, Blum and supporting tour partners over $5,000 was raised for the Child Cancer Foundation.



Blum showroom in Avondale, Auckland.

Strong industry collaboration on display at Biesse Material Days This year’s Biesse Material Days, held in partnership with Blum, once again highlighted the value of collaboration within the joinery and cabinetry sector. The event successfully fostered meaningful conversations, knowledge sharing, and industry engagement. Some guests also attended Blum’s after-event, reinforcing the strong interest in continued partnership across the sector.

As with last year, Blum and Biesse worked closely to deliver a hands-on, practical experience focused on innovation and workflow efficiency. The event also welcomed participation from key software partners, including Cabinet Vision and Microvellum, offering visitors a well-rounded view of integrated manufacturing solutions.

Blum’s after-event offered guests an informal, engaging setting to connect. The overall atmosphere was positive, and the newly renovated showroom proved an ideal environment for open discussion, networking, and product exploration. Blum showcased the latest unreleased REVEGO version 3, now on display in Blum's refreshed space, drawing significant interest and positive feedback from attendees. The new Concelo entro pullout waste bin system also featured, offering a functional and refined option for modern kitchen layouts. REVEGO, in particular, proved to be a standout—its seamless pocket system capability resonating strongly with designers and manufacturers looking to maximise spatial flexibility.

The space performed well in action and generated several promising new leads—an encouraging sign as the market looks ahead to 2026.

Continuing a tradition that reflects the industry’s commitment to community, funds raised from guided event tours were donated to the Child Cancer Foundation. Both Blum and Biesse matched the donation total, further amplifying the contribution.

Overall, the event reaffirmed the value of collaboration and shared industry momentum.

As manufacturers continue to navigate changing market demands, partnerships like that between Blum and Biesse play a key role in connecting solutions, suppliers, and ideas that help move the industry forward.

If you’ve got a collaborative event idea, touch base with our team at info.nz@blum.com or reach out to your Blum Representative. 

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 17

Show Report

Jacks and KDT along with edgeband suppliers Rehau, Hutchco and Kantek were able to present innovations across the edgebanding process.

Jacks – KDT edgebander expo The Jacks 2025 Expo was all about showcasing the latest innovations in edgebanding — from cutting-edge machinery to advanced materials and services.

Technology One of the standout highlights was KDT laser technology. With zero glue-line now an industry standard, true laser processing remains the ultimate solution for laser tape.

Visitors were impressed by its ease of operation, superior bond strength, low energy consumption and instant readiness. Jacks offer three KDT laser edgebanders, giving customers flexibility to match their production needs.

Another crowd favourite was the KDT KE-395J 45° edgebander. With handleless pull drawers trending, this machine drew significant attention. It dramatically reduces what is typically a time-consuming process, delivering a consistent, high-quality finish that manual methods simply can’t achieve.

achieving a near-zero joint finish.

This service even makes veneer tape laser-compatible, a gamechanger for many joiners.

Customer Engagement Jacks Sales Manager, Dylan Staples, summed up the event:

Jacks team at their Auckland Expo.

Materials On the materials front, Rehau’s Pigmento range stole the spotlight.

This innovative laser tape virtually eliminates the framing effect caused by edge trimming, creating a seamless one-piece look. Pigmento’s coloured flecks run through the tape thickness, so trimming reveals matching tones further disguising the join between face and edge.

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 18

Services Industry service leaders Hutchco and Kantek were on hand to discuss new developments. Of particular interest was their laser melt coating service, which removes the need for a glue pot in edgebanders. If a tape in their range isn’t available in laser format, they can apply a lasercompatible polymer coating, colour-matched to the tape,

“We were thrilled with the turnout, with customers flying in from all over the country. The feedback was extremely positive. Our goal wasn’t just to showcase the latest edgebanders, but to present the complete edgebanding process — machines, materials, operator training, service and maintenance.

Customers want to see the whole cake, not just a slice.

We’re pleased not only with the response to this strategy but also with the confidence many showed in investing in KDT edgebanders, especially KDT laser models. It’s a great blueprint for future shows.” 

Product Release 660 COLOURWASH To provide natural & decorative colours for interior timber products • Application friendly • Solvent based timber stain • For interior use • Designed tp prevent pooling or blotching • Can be used with multiple clear coats

December 2024

DISTRIBUTORS Whangarei Paint Centre Whangarei (09) 430 2414 Wairau Paint Centre Auckland (09) 443 3430 PPG Industries NZ Ltd Auckland (09) 573 1620 Grayson Auto Colour Centre Auckland (09) 278 0685 Autolink Distributors Ltd Hamilton (07) 846 1443 Linkup Paints (BOP) Ltd Tauranga (07) 571 8921

• Available in a wide range of the latest fashionable colours

Complete Paints Ltd Napier (06) 843 1122

USES

Total Paint Supplies Ltd New Plymouth (06) 769 9415

Designed as a high quality furniture stain for kitchens, shop fittings, cabinets, desks, panelling, partitions and most interior wood.

Total Body Shop Ltd Wellington (04) 586 6681 Paintco Nelson (03) 546 6660

For more Information please contact PPG

PPG Industries NZ Ltd Christchurch (03) 384 0255 Rainbow Paints Ltd Dunedin (03) 474 0659 Southern Paints Invercargill (03) 218 4664

PPG Industries NZ Ltd, 5 Monahan Rd, Mt Wellington, Auckland Freephone 0800 990 093 • Freefax 0800 659 377 • www.ppgic.co.nz

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 19

Otago Southland Master Joiners President Kate Rule-Munro with holiday intern Ryan Johnston.

Blum Shop have continued refining their platform with updates based on user feedback.

SCM won a SMAU award for its intelligent spindle which can anticipate faults before they occur..

Supporting young talent

Smart spindles

Workflow refined

Otago-Southland Branch welcome Ryan as a Master Joiner Intern. At the start of Term 1, Otago – Southland Branch connected with Cromwell College to explore an opportunity for a promising Year 11 student who had shown real enthusiasm for the joinery industry. A few months later, Kate RuleMunro reconnected with the school and provided a flier for their newsletter, careers page, and daily notices. The school then carefully selected the student it felt most deserving of the award.

Thanks to sensors, software, and artificial intelligence technologies, SCM Group has transformed the electrospindle of a machining center into a predictive monitoring and maintenance system capable of reducing costs and downtime while optimizing the entire lifecycle of the machine.

With the much-anticipated release of our latest REVEGO version coming next year, now is the perfect time to get familiar with the Blum Shop and how it can support your workflow. Whether you’re planning ahead for upcoming projects or simply keeping an eye on new solutions entering the market, having confidence in the ordering process makes integrating new products faster and easier from day one.

We wanted the recognition to be meaningful, so we arranged for a ‘keep’ trophy and a Makita drill kit valued at around $600— “something practical and lasting” Kate shares. Both were delivered ahead of the school’s awards evening, where they were presented to Ryan during the scholarship section.

Ryan was delighted, and we’re excited to see where his interest in joinery takes him and look forward to supporting his journey ahead.

Get involved in the Master Joiner Internship Programme, you can make a real difference by helping connect your local Master Joiners branch with nearby schools through our internship programme. It’s a great way to support young people exploring a future in joinery while strengthening ties with the schools in your community. Members can sign up through their branch—every connection counts!

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 20

Predicting a fault before it occurs, increasing production efficiency, and turning maintenance into a proactive service: this is the vision behind “Smart Spindle”, the innovation developed by SCM Group and recognized at the 19th edition of SMAU, held in Milan on November 5–6.

SCM Group has reimagined one of the key elements of its CNC machines—the electrospindle—turning it into an intelligent node within a broader ecosystem of smart services.

Developed in collaboration with Hiteco, a Group company, the electrospindle is equipped with a smart control unit that collects and interprets data from sensors monitoring critical parameters such as temperature, vibration, and tool change cycles. The system can anticipate faults and trigger predictive interventions before a problem occurs. 

To help with that, we’ve continued refining the Blum Shop experience based on your feedback. Recent updates have made the platform easier to navigate and use. You’ll now find assembly and technical instructions directly on product pages, a streamlined order history view that makes reordering effortless, and a comparison tool that allows you to evaluate up to three products side-by-side.

These improvements are designed to support smoother planning, clearer decision-making, and more efficient ordering — without disrupting your workflow.

And we’re not finished. The Blum Shop will continue to evolve, and your insights play a key role in shaping what comes next. If you have suggestions, ideas, or features you’d like to see, we’re always open to hearing them.

Please reach out to your Blum Representative or to our team—we genuinely value your input.

Now’s a great time to explore the Blum Shop, get comfortable, and be ready for what’s just around the corner. Visit shop.blum.nz to get started! 

It’s so easy to stay connected.

I just ring toll-free 0800 HOMAG1 0800 HOMAG1 — the easiest way to stay connected!

We value our relationship with our customers and strive to make your experience with us as smooth as possible. Whether you need assistance with ordering spare parts, seeking technical guidance, or discussing your woodworking requirements, our friendly and knowledgeable team is just a phone call away.

www.homag.com | sales-australia@homag.com | Toll free 0800 HOMAG1

YOUR SOLUTION JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 21

2025 Conference Rotorua

A Conference full of inspiration The Conference was held this year in Rotorua in mid September at the Energy Events Centre. The theme was ‘Crafting The Future’.

The site for the Conference was spacious and ideal, while the weather remained good throughout the three days. I had the privilege of meeting and briefly addressing the Executive Committee on the Thursday.

Although I had not met many of the Committee before I was impressed by their attentiveness and commitment. A good conference looked likely!

Scion hosted the first night ‘Gathering’

The two evening events on the Thursday and Friday were really memorable for where they were held. The Conference organisers did themselves proud. The Gathering was held at Scion which is New Zealand’s leading Crown Research Institute focused on forest science, bioproducts and innovation in timber and bio based materials (see picture).

This was notable as Scion took us on a fascinating guided tour of their facilities, something they don’t often do I was told. It was followed by a short Q&A session with their Henri Bailleres who the following day was a guest speaker at the Conference venue.

A delightful location for meeting friends old and new garnished with amazing food to nibble on. Many thanks to Innergy for sponsoring this evening.

The following night was Quiz Night at the Skyline sponsored by newcomer Polytec. An absorbing ride up in a gondola led to a spectacular view of Rotorua. The smorgasboard meal was fantastic as was the Quiz night itself.

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 22

In between these events were the business sessions on the Friday and Saturday. Notable was the Keynote Presentation on the Friday morning run by Bruce Poling from The Joinery Coach.

Maximising what you have to get ahead leads to opportunities for growth. A well received session.

We have a contribution from Bruce in this issue as well. The other guest speaker was employment lawyer Tess von Dadelszen who spoke about issues affecting both employers and employees across all areas of workplace law. A really interesting session. We hope to hear more from her in the New Year.

The highlight of the Conference came on the Saturday night with the Master Joiners Awards evening held at Te Puia, an iconic cultural venue in Rotorua. The architecture of the site is truly impressive.

The Supreme Award sponsored this year by Allegion went to Wackrows Joinery with their amazing Treehouse entry. We have a feature on this winning entry in this issue and some commentary

from Liam Wackrow about the project. We will cover the other major award, the Premier Award sonsoered by Blum and won by Carlielle Kitchens in our March 2026 issue. Congratulations go to all the winners in this year’s Awards. Of particular note of course are the Apprentice Awards which this magazine has now supported every year for the past thirty years. Our thanks particularly to BCITO for their support.

Last but not least are the organisers of this event. Hearty thanks to Allison Delaney and her team from Master Joiners. Thanks especially to their Marketing Manager Aleximie Holleaux who did a grand job with the Awards ceremony. Was good to catch up with so many people this time round. Look forward to doing it all again next year!

Bob Nordgren

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 23

2025 Supreme Award Winner

Liam Wackrow from Wackrows Joinery with the Supreme Award for their ‘Treehouse’ project.

A once in a lifetime project This year’s Supreme Award winner at the 2025 Master Joiners Awards held in Rotorua in mid September was won by an amazing Tree house by Cambridge based Wackrows Joinery. Bob Nordgren from JOINERS Magazine caught up with the Wackrows team to find out more about their stunning winning entry.

Situated within a small stand of Redwoods, the tree house stands 14.5 metre high on a central cylindrical trunk, with a 9 ton bar platform some 7 metres off the ground linked together by a spiral staircase. The bar platform itself is encased by 16 Cedar shutter bi-folds staggered from 2.2 metres to 4 metres around the facets with faceted jambs linking them together.

Twelve months in the making, this was a once in a lifetime opportunity with a focused client and a supportive head contractor.

Due to the structure design,

this construction posed many challenges making this more out of the square or norm.

keep rodents and birds out!) and a hidden Cedar clad toilet door at the platform height of 7 metres.

“Transporting the custom bar cabinetry and bi-folds up the spiral staircase followed by a complex install process at height was a key challenge” comments Liam, one of the owners of Wackrows. Each component had to be carefully handled and precisely fitted due to its bespoke design at height. Every piece of timber you see in the project was supplied and handled in some form by the Wackrows Joinery team.

At the platform level is the bar room of about 14 square metres of floor space. The bar itself features a faceted radiused bar top matching the floor pattern. The bar cabinetry had to home two bar fridges, an ice maker, plumbing utilities and glass storage in what was a tight radius which meant every unit was custom angled to fit many varying rectangles.

Each part of the project demands commentary. Let’s start with the staircase. Custom profile band sawn Cedar was used to fit around the internal and external radiuses while radiused Kwila stair treads were shaped off the CNC after being laser templated. H3.2 Pine droppers, struts and joints were hand mortised to conceal any structural steel connections.

Above this was the suspended band sawn Cedar door to lock the platform mid staircase (to

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 24

“This was indeed a challenging project which took some twelve months to complete from beginning to end” says Liam. “It certainly tested all our joinery skills to meet the client brief, and we are immensely proud of what we have created in the end.” A worthy winner indeed.

For more information contact the team at Wackrows Joinery, 13 Gillies St, Cambridge, ph 07 827 5981, email info@wackrows.co.nz or visit www.wackrowsjoinery.co.nz

Based in Cambridge the joinery business was established back in 1973 by Gus Wackrow. It is now run

by Liam his son along with Carl Riley and Bryce Norris.

They have over the years been a specialist in timber window joinery, wooden door joinery, kitchens including installation and other cabinetry. Their work can be found all around New Zealand. The firm has grown to now have some eighteen staff. They have been past winners of various Master Joiners Awards including Best Kitchen, but this is their first Supreme Award.

Note: As well as winning the Supreme Award, the Treehouse also won the Best Creative Use Of Timber and Best Timber Project Awards

Treehouse

Wackrows Joinery

“The Treehouse is a remarkable showcase of exceptional timber craftsmanship, innovative design, and meticulous execution” “an outstanding example of timber joinery that strikes an effective balance between functionality, aesthetics and environmental sensitivity” “seamless integration of structural steel with handcrafted timber elements demonstrates a high level of skill and attention to detail, making it a true standout in the industry” “This project distinguishes itself by integrating robust timber joinery within a unique and adventurous architectural concept. Overall, it stands as a strong representation of industry best practice, delivering a visually striking and enduring timber structure that responds thoughtfully to its environment” Judge’s comments

AWARD Sponsor

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 25

2025 Premier Award Winner Framed in Light

Carlielle Kitchens, Pukekohe.

Tasha McMiken from Carlielle Kitchen accepting the Premier Award for their ‘Framed in Light’ kitchen.

Judges Comments The selection of products are crucial to a brilliant design and function. It will stand the test of time with choice of enduring quality products.

High end joinery at its best. Matching timber elements and lighting details echo the kitchen, reinforcing continuity across the home while allowing this space to shine on its own terms.

Cool !!! love the vibe of this bar, an entertainers dream. I would be proud to serve a drink in this bar.

Beautifully made and presented, a stunning piece of cabinetry Nice to see in house photos, even smaller details like the beautifully spaced wine glass holder are good to see AWARD Sponsor

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 26

Resene AquaLAQ

Water Based Paint Licence No 1296003

TM

Waterborne low VOC coating system for cabinetry, joinery, shop fittings, kitchens and doors

• Economical • Hard and Durable • Waterborne 1K System • Authentic Resene colours

AquaLAQ is waterbased, low VOC, low odour and Eco Choice Aotearoa certified.

Better for your business and better for your customers.

Call 0800 108 008 or email help@reseneauto.co.nz to become a trained and registered applicator | reseneauto.co.nz/aqualaq JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 27

2025 Category Award Winners

BEST KITCHEN OVER 50K & BEST CABINETRY PROJECT Carlielle Kitchens, Pukekohe.

BEST KITCHEN UNDER 30K Finesse Joinery, Christchurch.

BEST KITCHEN 30 - 50K Finesse Joinery, Christchurch.

BEST KITCHEN DESIGN (by in-house design team) Finesse Joinery, Christchurch.

BEST USE OF COLOUR Well Hung Joinery, Wellington.

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 28

BEST STAIRS Ruben's Joinery, Christchurch.

BEST CREATIVE USE OF LIGHTING MWF Manufacturing, Christchurch.

BEST SPECIALTY BAR, COUNTER OR FITMENT Artisan Carpentry, Te Puke.

BEST DOOR OR WINDOW Crown Joinery, Wellington.

BEST CREATIVE USE OF TIMBER & BEST TIMBER PROJECT Wackrow’s Joinery, Cambridge.

Category Award Sponsors Blum, Laminex NZ, Hafele NZ, Halswell Timber, Thermawood, Allegion.

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 29

2025 Regional Award Winners

AUCKLAND Grandvue Joinery, Waitakere.

WELLINGTON Commercial Joinery, Kilbirnie.

WAIKATO BAY OF PLENTY Graft Joinery, Taupo.

CANTERBURY Bates Joinery, Christchurch.

WAITAKI Barrett Joinery, Timaru

TARANAKI Modex Kitchens, New Plymouth.

NELSON MARLBOROUGH Cooper Webley, Nelson.

OTAGO SOUTHLAND B&M Joinery, Cromwell.

HAWKES BAY POVERTY BAY Kakapo Joinery, Napier.

Regional Award Sponsor Hettich JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 30

QUALIFICATIONS

THAT FIT WHAT YOU DO WORK SMARTER

Have your team work smarter, learn up-to-date skills.

TRAIN AN APPRENTICE

Help them learn the skills and become qualified.

ALREADY HAVE THE EXPERIENCE?

Get skills recognised with a formal qualification.

GROW YOUR BUSINESS THROUGH TRAINING

Training an apprentice is an investment in your business and the industry.

CALL BCITO TODAY

JOIN-2150

0800 4 BCITO (422 486)

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 31

2025 Apprentice Award Winners

MWF Manufacturing staff were to the fore in the Apprentice awards from left - Planning Manager Sam Montgomery holds the Gordon Caulfield Memorial Trophy for employer of the Top Apprentice, Jamal Qualls, winner Best Timber Project & Highest Judged Workmanship and Sam Kempton, winner Best Fitment and People’s Choice, here with Managing Director Gary Altenburg.

Best Fitment Over Two Years & People’s Choice Over Two Years - Sam Kempton, MWF Manufacturing, Christchurch.

Best Timber Project Over Two Years & Highest Judged Workmanship & Skills - Jamal Qualls, MWF Manufacturing, Christchurch.

Gordon Caufield Memorial Award - MWF Manufacturing as the employer of the years leading apprentice.

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 32

Best Fitment Under Two Years, Best Timber Project Under Two Years & People's Choice Under Two Years - Mark Seager, Customtone Kitchens, Otorohanga. (Pictured here with his boss George Van Boven.)

Ernie Jelinek Cup

Greg Durkin, Jack Hitchcox, Spencer Bremner and Nathan Moore.

Celebrating rising talent Jack Hitchcox of Dunedin’s Bespoke Cabinets was awarded the prestigious Ernie Jelinek Cup for Most Promising Apprentice at the Master Joiners Excellence Awards.

pack up early. Last month, I was away from work for two weeks, and Jack ran the company in my absence – every job was delivered on time, and everything was handled professionally. He’s a once in a generation apprentice,” said employer Spencer Bremner.

The Ernie Jelinek Cup, presented by cup sponsor BCITO, is awarded annually to a timber joinery apprentice who has demonstrated exceptional skill, commitment and potential. Jack received the award in front of industry peers at the Excellence Awards Dinner at Te Puia, Rotorua in September.

Jack said he’d been lucky to work on some unique projects and to learn from people who’d trusted him with responsibility early on.

“Running jobs and taking on complex builds has pushed me to grow quickly, and I’m grateful for the support of my employer, my BCITO training advisor, and everyone who has backed me along the way. This recognition motivates me to keep raising the bar and contributing to the future of our trade.”

"Ernie Jelinek was greatly involved with the Joinery Industry Training Organisation (JITO) and today we continue to recognise his contribution to the joinery industry with the awarding of the Ernie Jelinek Cup. We want to congratulate Jack on receiving this great honour for 2025," said Nathan Moore, National President, Master Joiners.

“Jack joined Bespoke Cabinets as a young after-school and holiday worker, and it was immediately clear that his talents were better suited to working with tools than pushing a broom. Jack is also incredibly dependable. He often beats me to work in the morning and I’ve never once seen him

Greg Durkin, Director at BCITO, said the award is a testament to the strength of talent coming through the trades. “Apprentices like Jack represent the future of the joinery profession. Their d e te rmin atio n , w ill ingne s s to learn and creativity ensure that traditional craftsmanship continues to thrive. BCITO is proud to support and celebrate the next generation of joiners through our ongoing sponsorship of the Ernie Jelinek Cup.”

Apprentice Award Sponsors JOINERS Magazine, BCITO

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 33

Nataio Walnut melamine in Ravine finish with Cinder Matt on front island.

polytec offers New Zealand more choice for decorative panels and benchtops For the first time, New Zealand’s joinery, design, and construction community can experience polytec — one of Australia’s most trusted decorative surface brands, renowned for its combination of functionality, architectural appeal, and manufacturing excellence.

For over 35 years, polytec, a Borg Group company, has been synonymous with design-led, durable and functional surface solutions, offering a system of melamine decorative boards, high-pressure laminates (HPL) and matching edging that allow seamless coordination across joinery and wall-lining applications. With an extensive offer that includes 60 matching melamine and benchtop HPL designs, the collection offers endless creative possibilities, from contemporary kitchen joinery to commercial fit-outs — all backed by a reputation for design consistency, quality and value.

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 34

Aw a r d - w i n n i n g A u c k l a n d architect Michael Cooper was among the first to specify polytec in New Zealand.

“I saw the range at the Melbourne Design Show earlier this year and just loved it — it’s not often you walk by and think, this will change everything. There’s nothing else in the market that compares with the polytec Woodmatt finish. I’ve chosen Society Oak for a kitchen, Botany Oak for wardrobes and bedheads, and we’re also considering Manor Oak and Ecru Oak. Our joiner loves working with it — it’s incredibly high quality and easy to handle.”

Local cabinetmakers are equally positive. Warren Smith from Kitchencraft Interiors says: “It gives us another string to our bow, a product with solid foundations and great quality. Their range is exciting and their sample presentation is excellent. But having local stock on hand with strong and very enthusiastic sales support from Ian Atkinson and the team made all the difference.”

Warren made the point that their business would still be supporting NZ-made product but appreciated the ability to have more options for their customers with the addition of polytec

A particular emphasis on bespoke automation and robotics has allowed Borg to achieve incredibly efficient production, at scale, of an extensive product range which under the polytec brand includes decorative panels, custom doors and benchtop laminates.

polytec sales and support in New Zealand, Ian Atkinson, Jack Allan & Anne Knight.

The warehouse team: Hutch, Roger and Terry.

A 37-year history of innovation and growth, founded by the Borg Group From its origins in a small joinery business founded by Michael and John Borg in 1988, polytec has grown into one of Australia’s largest decorative surface brands.

Its extraordinary growth has been achieved by an absolute commitment to investing in the most technologically advanced and computer integrated manufacturing systems.

A particular emphasis on bespoke automation and robotics has allowed Borg to achieve incredibly efficient production, at scale, of an extensive product range which under the polytec brand includes decorative panels, custom doors and benchtop laminates.

The commitment to innovation is already in evidence with the NZ start-up where the company’s first

Combilift Slipsheet is being used to swiftly unload containers in a record seven minutes.

The Borg Group’s broader operations include growing and harvesting renewable plantation pine, manufacturing MDF and particleboard, and producing decorative panels and doors across advanced, technology-led facilities. A significant proportion of board material is reclaimed, repurposed and reintroduced into production, ensuring timber waste is minimised and resources are continuously reused.

This commitment to sustainability extends to energy generation where the Oberon manufacturing site in NSW hosts Australia’s largest rooftop solar array, spanning eight hectares with over 27,000 solar panels, alongside an on-site wastewater treatment and recycling plant.

All polytec board products are manufactured from E0 or E1 substrates, with particleboard incorporating recycled wood content, and all timber sourced from PEFC, Responsible Wood and GreenTag-certified plantations.

Chief Executive Officer Jim Snelson says establishing a New Zealand distribution operation has been a long-considered decision.

“We’re confident there’s strong demand for polytec products in New Zealand, and our production efficiencies allow us to supply board and laminate to the East Tamaki warehouse at competitive prices,” he said.

Supporting NZ joiners In New Zealand, Ian Atkinson and Jack Allan are leading the sales charge for polytec – Ian is an industry veteran well known to many while Jack is a Kiwi, relocated from polytec in Melbourne. Anne Knight is in a part-time specification role supporting architects and designers.

The warehouse team is led by Branch Manager Roger Miller, supported by Marshall Hutchinson (Hutch) and Terry Tangata.

(Continued over page)

“We’re also fortunate to have a local team with outstanding experience and industry connections, enabling us to get up and running quickly.”

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 35

polytec offers New Zealand more choice (cont)

The versatility of the range in terms of panels size and the ability to coordinate vertical and horizontal surfaces provides immense versatility for both residential and commercial projects.

The polytec Oberon manufacturing site in NSW hosts Australia’s largest rooftop solar array, spanning eight hectares.

What’s on offer from polytec for NZ Joiners From its well-stocked East Tamaki warehouse, polytec can supply melamine decorative panels, benchtop laminates, and edgetape to customers across the Upper North Island and beyond, with prompt and reliable delivery: •

80 colours in the melamine range in finishes that cover all the bases from a lowreflective anti-fingerprint

• • •

The Venette finish shown here in Black is a premium melamine finish offering low reflectance and antifingerprint properties.

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 36

matt (Venette) through to gloss, matt and woodgrain textures (Woodmatt and Ravine).

Longer 3100 mm melamine panels for select colours A benchtop HPL range of 95 colours that includes 60 melamine matches Matched 22x1mm ABS edgetape for all colours in either 20m or 100m rolls. A wider 29mm tape is available on select colours.

The versatility of the range in terms of panels size and the ability to co-ordinate vertical and horizontal surfaces provides immense versatility for both residential and commercial projects.

With higher stud heights now the norm in new residential builds, the longer 3100 panels are fast becoming industry standard and are ideal for overheight joinery and wall panels.

Sample boards and sample boxes are available for joiners and the full range can be viewed online at the polytec New Zealand website at www.polytec.co.nz.

Contact details for the sales and specification team can also be found on the contacts page. 

JOINERS J JOI JO OI OIN NE NER ER E RS M RS Ma Magazine agaz ga azzine ine ne D December Dec ec ecemb ember em ber e 2025 2025 page 202 2 pag age g 37 7

Handles for everything In a repeat of previous years in our December issue we once again bring the Christmas handles pictorial, of the popular, the trending and the practical to assist in completing your cabinetry and furniture projects.

FIT p.42

Sage p.43

Hafele p.40 Archant p.44 Katalog p.39

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 38

www.katalog.co.nz

HANDLES ALWAYS AVAILABLE AT

katalog.co.nz 15c Williamson Ave Ponsonby, Auckland +64 9 360 4290 Proud suppliers of for 17 years

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 39

Häfele 2025 Collection The latest in Decorative Hardware.

Browse Our Range

The 2025 Déco Collection by Häfele redefines the art of touch. From bold statements to refined classics, each piece captures the evolving language of design.

H2510

H2515

H2520

H2525

H2530

H2535

H2540

H2545

H2550

H2555

H2560

H2565

H2570

H2575

H2580

H2585

H2590

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 40

Slido F-Park72A Elevating Pocket Door Innovation in 2026.

COMING SOON!

Space-saving solution for modern living spaces.

Key technical specifications:

Häfele is set to launch Slido F-Park72A in 2026, a new pivot sliding system designed to maximise space and deliver a clean, modern aesthetic. This innovative solution allows doors to pivot and slide smoothly into a concealed pocket, creating uninterrupted access and a minimalist look for kitchens, living areas, and multi-functional spaces.

– Door height: Up to 2800 mm – Door weight: Up to 30 kg – Door thickness: 19–25 mm – Opening width: Flexible single or double-door configurations – Mechanism: Pivot sliding with concealed pocket integration

The system is engineered for ease of installation and long-term durability, making it ideal for designers and installers who want to offer their clients value, but not compromise on performance and simplicity. Slido F-Park72A supports handle-free fronts and integrates seamlessly with contemporary cabinetry designs.

Easy installation & adjustments

– Installation: Pre-assembled components for simplified setup – Finish options: Compatible with a range of modern finishes With its official rollout planned for early 2026, Slido F-Park72A promises to deliver flexibility, elegance, and performance, empowering designers to create spaces that are both functional and inspiring.

Pre-mounted system for quick and easy installation.

Use of standard hinges make adjustments very intuitive.

Optimum price/performance ratio High-quality technology at a reasonable price – Ideal for cost-optimised projects.

Easy to use Intuitive operation without complicated mechanisms.

Compact form & seamless movement The doors move smoothly and quietly, ensuring maximum convenience.

MORE FREE SPACE, LESS COMPLEXITY.

sales@hafele.co.nz | www.hafele.co.nz JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 41

Cabinet Handles from FIT Angolo

Gaziano Vesuvio

Spada

Gaziano Otto

www.fit-nz.co.nz JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 42

Gaziano Otto

Introducing

The Inset Handle - fully adjustable length and position.

Opticoat® handles Earlier this year, we announced the launch of Opticoat® – our thermoformed door products, made using the latest in automated coating technology from Europe. Today, we are excited to further expand these opportunities with our newest addition, the Opticoat Handles.

Opticoat Handles are available in 3 different style options: Profile Handle: Featuring a sleek and subtle ‘shark nose’ detail along the full edge, available on both 18mm and 22mm thick door styles.The Profile Handle requires the use of a backing rail in the cabinet, which does reduce the capacity of the drawer, which is why we also have the …

J Handle: The J Handle is a handy all-in-one option for maximising drawer capacity. As no backing rail required in the carcass, it provides the seamless handle-less look, with full use of the drawer space. This handle is only available on 22mm thick doors.

Inset Handle: The Inset Handle is similar to the J Handle, but the length and position is fully adjustable. This makes it perfect for tall doors (you can set the handle length and position), vanities (you can have a left & right door, with the handle meeting in the middle) and doors where you want a custom width handle. This handle is only available on 22mm thick doors.

These 3 different handle options can either be used on their own, or used together throughout the project. For example, on a kitchen with J Handles, the top drawer front could have a Profile Handle on the bottom edge, with the J Handle below creating the backing rail element required. And then the Inset Handles could be customised as required for the tall cabinets.

The Opticoat® handle options can be used on a flat door or frame profiles, but are not suitable for linear profiles.

Opticoat is available up to 3100 long in all of our profiles, with options for full return panels with no join lines in the back of the panel. If you’d like samples of the product, or would like to learn more, get in touch with our team!

www.sagedoors.co.nz

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 43

Solid Brass in 2025 The detail that elevates the whole kitchen Some materials don’t just complete a design—they define it. Solid brass lives in that rare space where craftsmanship, performance and beauty meet. In 2025, its appeal is stronger than ever: warm to the eye, reassuring in the hand and timeless across styles.

When the brief calls for authenticity and longevity, solid brass answers with quiet confidence.

Solid brass pairs effortlessly with timber veneers and painted shaker, brings warmth to minimal laminates, and grounds expressive stones and porcelains.

Why solid brass feels different The first impression is tactile. Lift a solid brass pull and there’s a calm, even weight; edges are crisp, threads engage smoothly, and the hardware seats with precision.

That integrity isn’t surface-deep— it’s built in. Over time, doors and drawers see thousands of touchpoints. Solid brass responds with stability and composure, so the daily ritual of opening a drawer feels considered, not accidental.

and excellent durability when a low-maintenance brief is essential.

Unlacquered “living” brass, by contrast, embraces change; it develops a natural patina that softens and deepens with handling, telling the story of a kitchen being lived in. Both choices are honest; each creates a distinct design narrative.

Designed for New Zealand homes Local conditions ask more of finishes. From coastal air to seasonal humidity, kitchens here work hard. Solid brass offers two credible pathways. Advanced coated finishes—such as modern PVD—deliver consistent colour

Berkley: tactile precision with knurled detail.

Berkley pairs solid brass construction with a refined diamond-knurl texture, catching light across its criss-crossed ridges while brushed ends keep the silhouette modern. Available across practical lengths with

Three design directions— beautifully resolved by Archant

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 44

complementary knobs, it brings confident grip and visual rhythm to wider drawers and tall fronts.

Fade XL: elegant proportion for expansive cabinetry.

A long, linear profile that reads as architecture rather than ornament, Fade XL extends the much-loved Fade ® language into 160, 320 and 640 mm spans. Precisionengineered from solid brass and offered in Antique Brass and Brushed Anthracite, it delivers a minimalist, luxurious touch that aligns form and function on larger doors and drawers.

Lexden: Art Deco poise, reimagined for today.

Geometric lines, luxurious finishes and a poised hand feel define Lexden—a solid-brass handle that bridges classic and contemporary

schemes with ease. Available in Antique Brass and Brushed Anthracite and in multiple sizes, its sleek proportions add a note of tailored sophistication to any interior.

Framing the palette — and the experience Great hardware doesn’t compete with the scheme—it completes it. Solid brass pairs effortlessly with timber veneers and painted shaker, brings warmth to minimal laminates, and grounds expressive stones and porcelains. Brushed and satin treatments feel refined and contemporary; deeper, antiqued tones introduce quiet depth. The result is a finish that photographs beautifully on day one and looks intentional years later. 

Newly renovated Blum showroom Blum has recently reinvented its Auckland showroom — a space designed not just to display hardware, but also to inspire, educate, and support how joiners work with clients and plan their projects.

The updated showroom now features a variety of kitchen styles, plus home office, living area, and bathroom setups to demonstrate how our solutions work throughout the home. Rather than relying on catalogues or online images, you can open drawers, run your hands over surfaces, and get a true sense of movement and functionality.

It’s a space built for practical conversation, hands-on learning, and confident decision-making.

A standout feature of the renovation is the installation of REVEGO V3, the newest pocket door solution set to be released next year. Seeing REVEGO V3 in action offers joiners the chance to understand the system’s spatial advantages, installation considerations, and the sleek, seamless movement it delivers. Getting familiar with it now means you’ll be prepared to specify, quote, and integrate it into projects the moment it launches.

The showroom is a useful tool for supporting ypur client consultations.

The showroom is also a useful tool for supporting your client consultations. Bringing clients in often speeds up decisionmaking significantly — they can compare finishes, systems, and configurations side-byside, reducing indecision and minimising redesigns later in the process. It also elevates your service approach, positioning you as a detail-driven partner who guides clients through thoughtful, informed choices.

With our barista-quality coffee and varied meeting spaces, the new showroom space offers a cosy, welcoming environment to talk design with your clients.

B l u m ’s s h o w r o o m t e a m i s available to talk through technical questions, design challenges, and planning considerations. Whether it’s a hinge angle puzzle, waste bin placement, or storage layout, a short conversation can often save hours on site.

Whether you’re exploring new solutions, helping a client finalise selections, or simply looking for ideas to refine your own design approach, the newly renovated Blum showroom is built to help you do your best work. Pop in and see the team at 621 Rosebank Road, Avondale, Auckland for a freshly brewed coffee and check out the refreshed new space, or book in a time with your Blum Representative to have them show you around. 

Major upgrade underway to boost warehouse capacity and delivery efficiency As the industry continues to pick up momentum — with strong order growth recorded through September and October — Blum appreciates the patience and support shown by customers throughout this improvement phase.

Blum is currently undertaking a significant upgrade to its A u t o m a t i c Wa r e h o u s e i n Auckland, marking an important step in strengthening supply performance and ensuring future growth across the joinery and cabinetry industry. The upgrade, which is now well underway, will more than double current capacity once completed — increasing efficiency, improving responsiveness, and helping minimise delivery delays during peak seasonal periods.

To maintain service throughout the upgrade, the warehouse team has been operating two shifts, six days a week. The investment now

The company looks forward to sharing the benefits of the new system and celebrating its new showroom and warehouse facilities in 2026.

being made in system expansion and automation will support a faster, more agile supply chain for years to come. Once complete,

the upgrade will allow Blum to react quickly to urgent orders and support industry demand more effectively during busy periods.

www.blum.com

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 45

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In conversation

Product: Rimu Toitu Mixed.

ARG Te Tai Tokeau Whangarei, designed by MA Studio. Mark Scowen photography.

Johnny Dobbyn veneer, craft and the NZ Panels Group’s approach Timber has a unique way of grounding a space and creating a sense of connection and warmth.

Veneer provides the medium for us to celebrate that natural beauty in a resource-conscious way.

At New Zealand Panels Group (NZPG) across the Prime and Bestwood veneer ranges, our focus has always been the same: select the right logs, match them with care, and help designers and joiners get the best out of the material.

Q1. Johnny, you’ve worked with veneer and timber for many years now. What keeps you so passionate about it?

We sat down with Johnny Dobbyn* who has spent more than 30 years working closely with veneer and timber, sourcing it, grading it, studying how it behaves, and helping people use it well.We talked about what inspires him, how sustainability is shaping the journey ahead, and why education, collaboration and communication matter so much in this category.

Q2. The Prime and Bestwood veneer ranges are often spoken about together and have long been recognised names in New Zealand interiors. How do the two sit alongside each other today?

Johnny: I’ve worked with veneer for a long time and what still gets me is how every piece tells a story. No two are ever the same.

The grain, the movement, the way it is prepared and finished, the way the colour shifts as the light hits it, it feels alive. Veneer brings real warmth and character into an interior space, and it does that without needing to use large volumes of timber. That balance of beauty and respect for the resource is something I’ve always valued.

Johnny: They really come from the same place. The same sourcing philosophy, the same care from the team in selection and the same

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 48

One of the most meaningful things about veneer is how efficiently it uses the timber resource. focus on helping people achieve a great finish. Two great New Zealand brands, under one roof.

The variety across the combined offering means designers and joiners can find exactly the right tone and grain character for their project.

What we know matters most to joiners and designers is reliability.

Knowing it will be consistent, confident it will be well-matched, obviously within the limits of the natural product, which can vary from species to species, different cuts and layups - especially nowadays with more stains and finishes than ever before.

Q3. Sustainability is a big focus. How can veneer support designers in creating more sustainable projects?

Johnny: One of the most meaningful things about veneer is how efficiently it uses the timber resource. Because you’re slicing the timber flitch into thin sheets, you make use of far more of the tree. Both our veneer ranges are Eco Choice Aotearoa accredited, so there’s independent assurance behind the environmental performance.

And then there’s our Track My Tree programme is very cool – available on selected New Zealand native veneers, the material can be traced back to the exact forest it came from. It reconnects people to the place, the landscape, the story. It reminds us that this is a real natural material with real roots - pun intended! (continued over page)

Helping create inspired New Zealand interiors.

Thermoform Doors/Panels

Mosman Interiors

Decorative Panels

Hayley O’Connor, Collab Interiors

Sinks and Taps

Mercer Showroom, Auckland

Benchtop Surfaces

Cleine Design, Mike Greer Homes

NZ Panels Group is the country’s leading manufacturer and distributor of interior products with a range that covers pressed decor panels, benchtop surfaces, sinks and taps, commercial washroom products and particleboard flooring.

Discover more at nzpanels.co.nz

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 49

Johnny Dobbyn on veneer (cont)

Kitchen designed by Shane George, Jamie Cobel Photography. Product: Rimu American White Oak Crown Cut.

Q4. You’ve also been running veneer training across the country. What drove that?

Johnny: Because veneer is a natural product, it is very nuanced and understanding it makes a huge difference. Things like sequencing, book matching, slip matching, mismatching, finish choices all affect the final look.

Over the years, I’ve had so many great conversations with joiners and designers about how to get the best from veneer. While there has been a lot of development and change in production, finishing and staining, craftsmanship still plays an important role when working with veneer, after all, it is still wood.

To make sure that joiners and furniture makers get the result they are after, we have some helpful technical resources and checklists which are available through our sales and customer service teams with information and questions that help us deliver

the perfect products for your projects, factoring in the cut, placement, style and application is important as we are working with natural products that do vary from tree to tree and are not identical like melamine or HPL products.

We developed a CPD-accredited veneer training presentation with the NZIA that we’ve been delivering around the country.

It’s practical and hands-on with real examples, real answers, real projects. The feedback has been great. People leave feeling more confident and more inspired to use veneer. Also with a new or renewed realization of the craftmanship and skill that joiners / furniture makers invest in our product to create something truly unique.

Q5. What excites you about where veneer is heading next?

Johnny: There’s a real shift back toward materials that feel natural and that are in harmony with

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 50

the environment. People want warmth, texture, and authenticity and veneer offers all of that.

The mismatch layup (available in our Prime Toitu or Art range) is a wonderful development over the last 10 years. It creates a more “solid wood look” over the traditional bookmatch / slip match repeated pattern look.

This embraces the whole look of the timber species that has been chosen and is very forgiving for overall matching of the individual boards when large quantities are involved and or certain stains or finishes are used. Not only does this use more of the natural resource than other styles but it also saves on wastage where the variation is part of the product, perfect for when you are using veneer together with solid timbers.

If a more uniform look is what you are after, our Evoake veneer has a matching grain and colour, providing a more standard, repeatable pattern available

in both crown and quarter cut options, something for everyone.

We’re seeing more use of curves, layered textures, and grain as a design feature rather than just a background. It’s a really exciting time. I think veneer is only going to become more central to how interior spaces feel; calmer, more grounded, more human.

Closing Line Thanks to Johnny for sharing his passion, knowledge and craft and for reminding us that when we understand a material deeply, we can do something truly special with it.

If you feel that you would benefit from receiving training on our veneer products, register your interest today by emailing us at marketing@nzpanels.co.nz

* Johnny Dobbyn is the Veener Category Manager for New Zealand Panels Group

Experience the difference Millwood Ltd, established by husband and wife team Andrew and Kirsten Miller, has gone from strength to strength since they started as timber importers and wholesalers back in late 2017. Bob Nordgren from JOINERS Magazine caught up with them recently to find out more about them and their business.

The number of wholesale timber suppliers in New Zealand is relatively small but very competitive. Andrew and Kirsten are from South Africa having come to New Zealand back in the mid 2000’s. “Timber has been in our veins so to speak from the start” explains Andrew. “I was in the timber business back in South Africa and Kirsten worked in the furniture manufacturing sector when we first met so when we decided to move to New Zealand it was pretty much on the cards we would end up back in the timber business.”

After stints with some other well known timber companies that came to fruition when they set up Millwood Ltd in 2017. “With some kind help, we started out using a shed and as it grew we moved to our current location some three years ago” recalls Andrew.

having recently been to Canada, we are excited to have added Western Red Cedar to mix. The main local specie is New Zealand Pine. The main market has been those in the Joinery, furniture, shopfitting and Interior decoration sectors. “We have gradually grown both our customer base and the all important volume of timbers in stock to meet demand” adds Andrew.

And where to from here? Andrew comments “Just more of the same: looking after our clientele as well as adding volume and range to our stockholding. We would like to think those out there looking for a reliable, friendly supplier with good advice would come and see what we can offer and experience the difference.”

Andrew & Kirsten Miller - growing their market and stock volumes.

From the start they had a more traditional, hands on approach with direct customer involvement.

“The buck stops with us so to speak” comments Andrew “and our customers know who they are dealing with at all times.”

Andrew who is very hands on in the warehouse and on the fork hoist, supervises most orders going out of the door, with the help of Jared and Wikus. “Customer happiness experts” is what the trio proudly call themselves.

They have both had a number of years being coached by Andrew to understand and work towards

the best yield for customers’ orders. Kirsten, also capable in the warehouse, focuses on the accounting and stock control side of things.

They operate from two buildings in East Tamaki with about 1000 square metres of storage space. They have a solid range of imported and local timbers.

“Popular species at the moment include American White, Ash and Oak while we have European Oak and Beech from Italy and African Iroko and Sapele dried and supplied from Italy as well” Andrew comments, as well as

We have many people to thank for their support, says Andrew.

“Kirsten and I often talk about how fortunate we have been, and how grateful we are for the help received along the way”. It hasn’t always been easy, and we really appreciate you all.

For further information contact Andrew on millwood.nz@xtra.co.nz, Ph. 021 286 7060 or visit www. millwoodtimber.co.nz

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 51

Felder is working at ITI NZ Step into ITI NZ’s workshop and you’ll feel the hum of progress. More than a timber supplier, ITI is reshaping how quality timber products are delivered to the New Zealand market. At the centre of this transformation is Daniel, Production Manager and Head Machinist, whose passion for precision and efficiency is driving ITI’s manufacturing journey.

Daniel began his career in joinery, apprenticing at BML Joinery before moving to JSC Timbers where he mastered machining on moulders and bandsaws. With 20 years of hands-on experience, he joined ITI NZ four years ago to lead its in-house manufacturing.

Previously reliant on outsourcing, ITI NZ’s new owners had a clear vision: bring production in-house for better control over quality and delivery. Daniel was hired to make that happen. “We didn’t want to play in the sandpit – we wanted to own the sandspit,” he jokes. The goal? To become New Zealand’s largest supplier of non-framing timber.

ITI NZ now offers profiled weatherboards, decking, architectural mouldings and premanufactured products. Stocked items are usually available for pickup or delivery within 24 hours, while custom orders are turned around in 3 - 4 weeks. With one of the largest ranges of exotic hardwoods in NZ, plus a full suite of cladding and decking options, Eva-Last composite decking, and Accoya Wood, ITI NZ is wellequipped for large-scale projects at competitive prices.

When Daniel arrived the workshop had a new Stenner bandsaw and a moulder. To handle smaller jobs and samples without disrupting high-volume production, he needed more machines: a wide belt sander, thicknesser and spindle moulder. With his experience, Daniel knew exactly what to look for.

Daniel and ITI continue to buy Felder - value for money, great features and robust build.

ITI NZ’s procurement policy involves gathering multiple quotes and doing thorough comparisons.

After reviewing options, Daniel chose Felder machines supplied and serviced by Jacks. “Felder offered better value,” he says.

“Their models were more robust, which is crucial when machining exotic hardwoods. Durability and safety were top priorities.”

The first addition was the Format-4 Exact 63 thicknesser with a Silent Power cutterblock. “The finish is fantastic and it’s so quiet I had to check if the cutterblock was spinning,” Daniel says. “We’ve had it two years and still haven’t turned the four-sided knives. The scissor-lift outfeed table is great for longer parts and prevents shorter pieces from falling.”

Next came the Felder FW1102 wide belt sander. “It’s perfect for sanding thin panels and weatherboards. We run up to 5,000m a week with 80 grit on the first roller and 120 on the pneumatic pad. It hasn’t missed a beat - none of our Felder machines have.”

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 52

“It hasn’t missed a beat - none of our Felder machines have.”

For custom samples, Daniel added the Felder F900M spindle moulder. “The integral safety fence is brilliant - it creates a nearzero gap between the cutterblock and fence. The digital readouts make setup fast and accurate.

And when we do need to adjust manually, 1mm means 1mm — no guesswork.”

Most recently, ITI NZ added the Felder A951L planer, a 510mm wide surface planer also featuring the Silent Power cutterblock.

“It was a no-brainer to stick with Felder,” Daniel says. “The foldable guard is a great feature - it easily folds away when needed.”

Looking Ahead ITI NZ is not just supplying timber – it’s building a future defined by quality, innovation and reliability.

The recent acquisition of RK Timbers, a respected name with nearly a century of experience in specialty timbers in NZ, marks a major milestone. This union combines RK Timber’s rich legacy with ITI NZ’s industry-leading service and quality standards, creating an exciting platform for growth in New Zealand’s specialty timber sector.

With Daniel leading manufacturing and Felder machines driving production, ITI NZ is well on its way to becoming the country’s leading supplier of non-framing timber.

Felder is sold and serviced in NZ

by Jacks, www.jacks.co.nz

Raising the Bar REHAU Launches Laser-Welding Certification for Cabinet Makers in NZ In the world of furniture design, precision isn’t optional—it’s the hallmark of true craftsmanship. At REHAU, we believe that every edge tells a story of quality, and now we’re helping cabinet makers in New Zealand write that story with confidence.

Introducing the REHAU Laser-Welding Certification Program—a new initiative designed to lift the quality standard of zerojoint technology across the industry. This program goes beyond theory. Participants will gain hands-on technical knowledge, learning the tricks and tips that make the difference between good and exceptional.

From mastering machine settings to achieving flawless junctions, we’ll share everything you need to perfect the art of seamless edges.

Why join?

• Certification that matters: Upon completion, you’ll receive an official REHAU certificate—proof of your commitment to excellence.

• Business advantage: Certified partners won’t just stand out; they’ll be promoted

•

by REHAU to interior designers and specifiers. More visibility means more projects, more opportunities, and more growth for your business.

Quality assurance: Our program ensures your equipment and processes deliver consistent, top-tier results—because zero-joint technology deserves zero compromises.

For over 50 years, REHAU has been innovating to make furniture edges flawless. Now, we’re empowering you to do the same. Join the ranks of certified professionals and show the market that your craftsmanship meets the highest standards.

Ready to elevate your edge?

Contact us today and start your journey toward certification.

Learn more about becoming a REHAU Certified Partner: www.rehau.com/nz-en/interiors/ certified-partners 

LASER WELDING CERTIFICATION PROGRAM Be the part of the recognized zero-joint quality standard.

Earn the badge.

Get featured.

Grow your business!

Ready to be recognised for perfection?

Scan to learn more

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 53

Introducing Concelo®entro™ The art of effortless waste management meets the engineering Hideaway Bins is proud to be introducing Concelo entro, the perfect pairing of Concelo’s state-of-theart waste management and Blum’s world-class drawer technology.

Seamless Integration Concelo entro offers effortless cleanliness, controlled odours and moisture, and a precise, fluid closing motion. Concelo entro is purpose-built to integrate with Blum Legrabox C height and Merivobox E height, 550mm drawers.

The high drawer side provides a stable platform, for high drawer fronts, and the 550mm depth allows easy removal of rear buckets. Colour matched to Silk White and Orion Grey,

The perfect pairing of Concelo’s state-of-the-art waste management and Blum’s world-class drawer technology.

Available nationwide from Blum hideawaybins.co.nz JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 54

behind every movement it blends beautifully with your kitchen design while maintaining consistent drawer performance and streamlined assembly.

Hands-free Technology at its Finest Where this integrated system truly shines is its compatibility with Blum’s push-to-open technology, creating a fully hands-free disposal experience. A gentle push activates the Blum drawer, while Concelo’s Active Lid drops seamlessly over the bins, trapping in odour and moisture without the need for manual intervention.

This intelligent design means no fumbling with bin lids and no lingering smells—just elegant waste management that works in rhythm with the kitchen.

Engineered for Cleanliness Beyond convenience, Concelo entro delivers on hygiene. Its innovative Clip’n’Clean® system allows users to easily remove components for easy cleaning, eliminating traditional dirt traps.

The unique Clip’n’Clean System creates an easy cleaning process in just 3 simple steps – 1. effortless removal, 2. wash in warm soapy water, and 3. reinstall in moments.

Available Now Concelo entro is available via Hideaway Bin’s national distribution partner, Blum.

For more information on the full product range, including installation drawings and details, visit www.hideawaybins.co.nz/ concelo-entro A Clip’n’ Clean system allows for easy removal and cleaning.

Understanding Stock Cover with MJ Cover Plus As a joinery professional, your stock is more than just materials it represents your hard work, craftsmanship, and the future of your business. Standard insurance policies often have limitations when it comes to stock, which is why the MJ Cover Plus facility, exclusively for Master Joiners Incorporated members, was designed to provide HQKDQFHG SURWHFWLRQ IRU \RXU XQLTXH ULVN SURƛOH

Protect your hard work with MJ Cover Plus smarter cover, broader protection, and peace of mind for Master Joiners.

Protecting Your Business JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 55

Storing & Handling Panel Bulky to store and heavy to handle, panel can be a logistical and physical choke point. From automated storage systems to jib cranes and vacuum lifters we look at options to handle panel efficiently and safely.

Homag p.62 Stratalign p.61

Biesse p.58

Treotham p.66

Machines R Us p.57

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 56

Jacks p.60

Flexstore HP & Flexstore ELR board storage systems

SCM Flexstore HP

Investing in an SCM Flexstore delivers measurable gains across efficiency, safety and performance

KEY BENEFITS Boost Production Throughput The Flexstore’s rapid retrieval and optimized material flow increase production output, helping your business keep pace with rising demand.

Reduce Labor Costs and Improve Productivity By automating material handling, your team can focus on highervalue tasks, saving both time and money.

Enhance Accuracy and Consistency Automation minimizes human error, ensuring precise and consistent material handling for a more reliable production process.

SCM Flexstore ELR

Promote a Safer and more Efficient Workplace The Flexstore eliminates heavy lifting and manual transport, creating a safer, more ergonomic environment that supports longterm efficiency.

rapid retrieval & optimised material flow

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 57

Stacking, retrieving, processing - one man three machines.

Biesse Winstore 10 years on Frankco Tong owner of Frankco & Simon Furniture has always embraced technology and was among the first in New Zealand to install an automated panel storage and handling system with his purchase of a Biesse Winstore in 2014. Such has been the reliability and versatility of the system that when he recently set up two new CNC lines with a pair of Biesse Rover AS CNC machines the decade old Winstore was able to handle the increased speed of throughput with ease.

Situated in the Auckland suburb of East Tamaki, Frankco & Simon are a well known and long established manufacturing business specialising in office furniture such as desks, workstations, reception counters and office storage systems, all requiring a lot of panel processing and handling.

When the company first installed the Biesse Winstore system eleven years ago the benefits were immediately obvious. Less physical handling of panel, less requirement for forklift space in the factory and most importantly improved stock control and sheet selection.

“The Winstore replaced a manual racking system and immediately saved a lot of hassle in picking

Over a decade on the system is still serving the same needs perfectly with the same software and set-up.

The only difference is now it feeds two new Biesse Rover AS CNC’s as opposed to the three previous pod and rail machines which ran in conjunction with a beamsaw.

board and monitoring stock levels,” says Frankco. “In the past we would have stock items on the computer but go out into the racking system and be unable to easily find them. Now we are able to store up to 2,000 sheets across numerous colours and sizes in rainbow stacks and the Winstore knows where every sheet is, can quickly find it and stack it for our forklift to deliver to the required CNC for processing.”

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 58

“ We p u r c h a s e d t h e B i e s s e Rovers last year and they have delivered a marked improvement in our processing. Previously the assembly line was always waiting for product, now the component delivery is always ahead of the assembly process and the Winstore has had no problem keeping up with the faster flow.

“From the time of installing the Winstore there have been no real problems. The Biesse technician installed and commissioned the

Winstore and have continued to be there when we need them but the system is so reliable that the only real requirements have been maintenance and general wear and tear on the suction cups, which are a simple replacement.”

“The Winstore has made our job easier and a lot more efficient, with continued proper service and maintenance there is no reason why it wont last us for another 10 years,” says Frankco. 

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 59

Smarter storage greater freedom panel storage solutions from Jacks For many New Zealand joiners, managing large volumes of panel material has become a daily challenge - both in terms of space and labour. Enter Barbaric, a world leader in panel storage and handling systems and a solution proudly offered in New Zealand by Jacks.

Manufactured in Austria, Barbaric’s panel storage systems are built to bring efficiency and intelligence to your factory floor.

These systems automatically store and retrieve sheets, feeding them directly to processing machines – significantly reducing material handling time and workload.

Machine-Independence The real strength of Barbaric lies in its smarts and flexibility.

Unlike many storage systems that are built to work exclusively with a single brand of machinery, B a r b a r i c t a k e s a d i ff e r e n t approach. It’s designed from the ground up to work with any brand of CNC or beamsaw. That means manufacturers can upgrade their machinery without being locked into one supplier, preserving their freedom of choice.

Even better, Barbaric systems can also be connected to your existing machines. You don’t need to overhaul your production line to benefit from automation. Barbaric integrates with what you already have, making it a highly accessible upgrade for joiners wanting to boost efficiency without starting from scratch.

"That open compatibility is one of the biggest advantages Barbaric offers our customers," says Dylan Staples, Sales Manager at Jacks.

"You’re not committing to one machine brand for the next 10 or 15 years. With Barbaric, the storage system is the smart hub and you can change the machinery around it as your business evolves."

KDT ECO Smartfactory with KUKA robotic arms.

For businesses looking to futureproof their investment, that flexibility is key. Barbaric also scales well - from smaller entrylevel systems to fully automated warehouses so companies can start small and grow over time.

Reducing Waste and Boosting Efficiency Barbaric systems do more than just move sheets. They manage offcuts, optimise sheet usage and significantly reduce the risk of damage to material. With automated storage, panels are handled gently, tracked digitally and retrieved efficiently minimising waste and maximising output.

"When labour is expensive and material costs are high, you want to make the most of every sheet," says Dylan. "Barbaric helps achieve that while also making the factory floor a safer, less physically demanding place to work."

Introducing KDT: Vertical Storage and Affordable Automation Jacks can now also offer KDT automated horizontal and vertical storage solutions. The vertical solutions save valuable workshop floor space by utilising oftenunused vertical areas in Kiwi factories. These systems can be customised to suit almost any factory layout, making them ideal for businesses where floor space is at a premium.

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 60

Vertical storage from KDT can save valuable floor space.

B u t K D T d o e s n ’t s t o p a t storage. Their solutions extend downstream with automated parts handling, including CNC outfeed unloading using KUKA robotic arms. This level of automation creates a seamless workflow from storage to machining, to parts stacking ready for edgebanding.

Thanks to the supply chain advantage of a massive global manufacturer like KDT, these systems are surprisingly affordable, delivering high-end automation without the traditional European price tag. For joiners looking to embrace automation without breaking the bank, KDT offers a compelling alternative.

The Future is Smart and Accessible While many see automated storage and handling as the exclusive domain of high-end European machines, Jacks is working to break that assumption. By

combining Barbaric’s advanced storage technology with KDT’s c o s t - e ff e c t i v e a u t o m a t i o n , Jacks is helping New Zealand manufacturers take a big step toward smarter, more efficient production.

"It’s still early days, but we’re already seeing strong interest from forward-thinking manufacturers looking to bring automation into their workshops without the usual high price tag," Dylan says.

To learn more about Barbaric and KDT panel storage solutions from Jacks, visit www.jacks.co.nz or call 0800 522 577 to get in touch with your local Jacks Technical Sales Consultant.

Lifting efficiency and safety at Acorn Furniture how Stratalign delivered a smarter way to handle melamine sheets Stratalign is increasingly called upon to support manufacturers in improving productivity and workplace safety. One recent project saw Stratalign working with Acorn Furniture (an established Motueka-based manufacturer known for its sustainably sourced, beautifully crafted timber furniture) to optimise the way full melamine sheets are handled in their expanding production facility.

Acorn Furniture had recently upgraded part of its factory, relocating existing machines and installing a new CNC machine to enhance their cutting capacity.

To feed the machine efficiently, operators were required to manoeuvre full melamine sheets manually — tasks that can be awkward, physically demanding, and difficult to manage in tight spaces. With limited floor area around the CNC machine and

allows a single operator to lift and position sheets of up to 300 kg with minimal effort. Optional tilt and rotation functions provide even greater flexibility, while the ergonomic design helps reduce physical strain and supports safer material handling across shifts.

multiple sheet stacks positioned nearby, Acorn needed a lifting solution that could deliver reach, precision, and seamless workflow without compromising safety.

Stratalign began by conducting a detailed site assessment, examining the building layout, surrounding equipment, and the structural capacity of the floor slab.

From this, the team recommended a column-mounted jib crane paired with a VacuPowerlift vacuum tube lifter—a versatile, ergonomic system designed for fast, effortless handling of sheet materials.

The column jib crane offered a robust, space-efficient lifting structure with up to 270 degrees of slewing, providing smooth, controlled manoeuvrability within the restricted environment. Its heavy-duty bearings ensured light, ergonomic operation, while the custom column height ensured the

The column jib crane offers a robust, space-efficient lifting structure with up to 270 degrees of slewing.

right lifting range for the CNC’s working envelope.

Paired with this, the VacuPowerlift tube lifter added the speed and precision Acorn needed. With its modular design, telescopic lifting hose, and integrated control handle mounted directly on the suction block, the system

To keep the project cost-effective a n d a l i g n e d w i t h A c o r n ’s capabilities, the installation was completed in-house by Acorn’s team, supported remotely by Stratalign through video calls, instructional videos, and comprehensive documentation.

The result is a streamlined, safer, and more efficient sheet-handling process—demonstrating how the right combination of lifting technology and expert guidance can transform workflow in modern manufacturing environments. 

STRATALIGN LIFTING NEEDS SOLVED. SAFELY.

JOINERS Magazine Magaz December 2025 page 61

HOMAG Storage system STORETEQ P-500

Horizontal storage systems efficiency and expertise for modern production Efficient production begins with how materials are stored, handled, and delivered to the machines that process them.

HOMAG horizontal storage systems play a central role in material management, ensuring panels are organized and supplied precisely when needed during production. They manage board materials, including panels with textured surfaces, MDF, HDF, chipboard, laminates, plastic panels, and high gloss panels with protective film, in a controlled environment and retrieve them with speed and accuracy.

For joiners, medium sized manufacturers, and industry businesses such as kitchen and furniture producers, interior fit out specialists, and commercial builders, this stage in production sets the pace for the whole operation.

The HOMAG Group has installed more than 1,600 horizontal storage systems worldwide, of which

80 were installed by HOMAG Australia for customers in the region. This result is evidence of a high level of expertise, reliable product performance, and strong confidence in HOMAG technology. Each installation confirms the system’s reliability and efficiency in real world manufacturing environments, reinforcing its role as a core element of modern production.

These figures highlight a solution with a well established track record of success in both global and local markets. woodStore, included in every HOMAG horizontal storage system, is recognized in the industry as one of the best storage system controls. It links order management closely with material handling, providing manufacturers with detailed control and transparency over their storage operations. It ensures that every panel is tracked, managed, and supplied at the right time and place, enabling the storage system to function as an integral part of the production process.

“With HOMAG horizontal storage systems, material handling becomes an organized, dependable part of production improving efficiency, reducing waste, and maximizing machine uptime.”

The result is a highly transparent, reliable material flow that supports efficient, flexible manufacturing.

Design, function, and benefits A HOMAG horizontal storage system is designed to manage large sheet materials stored flat and layered in stacks. In woodworking, these materials include panels with textured surfaces, MDF, HDF, chipboard, laminates, plastic panels, and high gloss panels with protective film, along with specialist boards.

The stacks are managed by a computer-controlled gantry with a self-learning suction traverse.

It uses vacuum suction cups to lift panels, ensuring gentle handling and avoiding surface damage. Panels can be rotated if required and supplied directly to a processing machine or placed on a roller conveyor connected to the machine.

The woodStore software records each panel as it enters the system, capturing details such as size, material type, orientation, and storage position. It tracks off cuts, labels them, and returns them to storage for later use. When a job is scheduled, woodStore selects the most suitable panel, often choosing an off cut before a new sheet, and delivers it when needed to match production plans.

Automation here reduces manual searching and lifting, limits the risk of damage, and enables connected processing machines to work at their optimal capacity. HOMAG horizontal storage systems can be configured to serve multiple processing machines, ensuring a reliable material flow that supports consistent production efficiency. (continued over page)

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 62

Control your material flow

Single-axis feeder STORETEQ F-100

Storage system STORETEQ P-300

Storage system – two bridges STORETEQ P-500

Storage system – second level STORETEQ P-310 | 510

From small to large: Horizontal storage systems for every requirement.

HOMAG horizontal storage systems optimise material flow to keep machines working at full capacity. Combined with woodStore, they manage every panel with accuracy – supporting faster production cycles, reducing manual handling, and freeing resources for higher value tasks.

Scan the qr code for more information.

www.homag.com | sales-australia@homag.com | Toll free 0800 HOMAG1

YOUR SOLUTION JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 63

Horizontal storage systems efficiency and expertise for modern production (cont)

HOMAG Storage system STORETEQ F-100

HOMAG horizontal storage systems - at a glance Central role in production management - Organizes, protects, and supplies materials for a reliable and efficient material flow.

Built on experience Extensive know how from successful installations worldwide and within the region.

Complete solution - Trusted mechanical design combined with woodStore software for inventory, off cut, and order management.

Fits every operation Configurations to suit small workshops through to large industrial facilities.

Reliable performance - Improves organization, reduces waste, and keeps processing machines working at their best.

Local support with global reach - Backed by HOMAG Australia’s regional expertise and HOMAG’s worldwide network.

Benefits for the production process HOMAG horizontal storage systems are a central element in production, supplying the right material to the right machine whenever required during the day. Their role extends well beyond initial production stages, supporting efficient adaptation to schedule changes without disrupting ongoing work.

The production process benefits: connected processing machines operate at their optimal capacity, materials arrive in the correct sequence, and damage related delays are avoided. Off cuts are captured, recorded, and reused where suitable, reducing material costs and minimizing waste. Full visibility of material flow through woodStore allows users to make well informed decisions. Panels that see little use can be allocated to upcoming jobs to free up space, while high demand boards can be monitored to ensure timely re ordering.

This transparency keeps supply consistent and avoids unexpected shortages. In operations ranging from small woodworking shops to large scale plants, HOMAG horizontal storage systems deliver

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 64

consistent results: production planning becomes simpler, machine uptime improves, and staff spend less time on manual handling.

Where HOMAG horizontal storage systems add value HOMAG offers a portfolio of horizontal storage systems designed for a wide range of production settings, from small joinery workshops to industrial manufacturing lines. While configurations vary, all models follow the same principles: accurate material tracking, gentle handling, efficient space use, and complete integration with woodStore for intelligent control.

For smaller operations, the STORETEQ F 100 single axis feeder is often the ideal start.

It delivers panels directly to a processing machine, such as a panel dividing saw, with minimal space requirements. This setup suits businesses looking to automate material handling without major changes to their floor layout. woodStore manages inventory in real time, ensuring the right material is always ready.

For manufacturers requiring greater storage capacity and the

ability to serve several processing machines, the STORETEQ P 300 and P 500 models provide centralized storage. Common in kitchen, furniture, and interior fit out production, they handle varied panel types quickly and in the right sequence, reducing time and effort in material handling.

Where floorspace is limited but capacity needs are high, multi level systems such as the STORETEQ P 310 | P 510 (second level storage) and STORETEQ P 320 | P 520 (double level storage) make smart use of building height. These are well suited to large factories managing high stock volumes and varied panel sizes, allowing expansion without increasing footprint.

Regardless of model, all HOMAG horizontal storage systems share the same handling principles: panels stored flat in stacks, moved by a computer-controlled gantry with a self-learning suction traverse, and managed by woodStore. This ensures scalable performance, dependable material availability, reduced waste through optimized off cut use, and the flexibility to respond to changing production needs.

As an integral element of modern panel processing, HOMAG horizontal storage systems organize, protect, and supply materials efficiently. They provide a reliable solution for managing materials and adapting to changing production needs.

HOMAG Storage system STORETEQ P-310

Drawing on extensive know how from successful installations both worldwide and within the region, HOMAG delivers the advantages of global reach backed by local expertise. A horizontal storage system,implemented with HOMAG’s expertise, turns material handling into an organized, dependable part of the production process.

HOMAG Storage system STORETEQ P-300

Hardware and software working together The capability of a HOMAG horizontal storage system comes from the close integration of robust mechanical handling with the woodStore software.

Together, they turn storage into an active, intelligent hub that supports the entire production workflow. woodStore manages every step, from panel infeed to off cut tracking and re use. It provides transparent, real time inventory data, adapts to changing production needs, and optimizes storage capacity while reducing needless panel movements. A key strength is the precise management of material flow combined with the ability to integrate in a fully compatible way with a customer’s existing production software and

ERP systems. This connectivity ensures that HOMAG horizontal storage systems are not operating in isolation but are fully coordinated with wider business processes, production planning, and order management. This is a unique capability that sets them apart in the industry. By linking material handling directly to order schedules, woodStore enables proactive decision making. Its multiple user interfaces allow operators, planners, and managers to access controls and data from different points in the facility.

the system. On the mechanical side, panels are moved safely and efficiently by a computercontrolled gantry with a selflearning suction traverse, with the software sequencing deliveries to keep connected processing machines busy.

The software also works with external storage zones and coordinates forklift activity, while built in analytics review performance of the storage system and suggest ways to get more from

Operational impact Once in place, a HOMAG horizontal storage system changes how materials move through a factory. Panels reach the right machines in sequence,

In short, woodStore serves as the central management hub of a HOMAG horizontal storage system, driving material flow, minimizing waste, improving quality, and enabling quick responses to production changes.

at the right time, without manual searching or lifting. This keeps production steady and avoids interruptions. Waste is lowered through systematic off cut storage and re use. Machine uptime rises as idle moments shrink, and safety improves because heavy lifting is handled by the system. Managers can adjust to urgent orders or design changes quickly, confident in the visibility and control the system provides. Whether in a compact workshop or a full scale plant, these changes lead to better productivity, more effective use of space, and higher output quality.

www.homag.com

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 65

The JumboFlex 300 vacuum tube lifter from Schmalz lifts heavy boards and feeds cutting machines quickly and easily.

Vacuum technology productivity in wood processing Today, wood-processing companies have to be flexible, fast and deliver on schedule – with the consequence of fully exploiting the potential for rationalization in the company and continually optimizing internal processes. To meet these requirements, the vacuum specialist Schmalz offers a wide range of products for manual and automated handling processes.

The requirements of vacuum technology for the safe handling of wooden workpieces are as various as they are demanding.

That's because renewable raw materials are often processed in a harsh working environment.

A lot of dust and chips can compromise trouble-free gripping, as too can knot holes, porosity, twists and cracks. On the other hand, painted surfaces require particularly gentle treatment.

Uneven stacking patterns, different dimensions and an often undefined workpiece pick-up position, create further challenges for handling technology.

Furthermore, the wood industry demands fast cycle times, falling production costs and energy efficiency. With its product range, Schmalz (from Germany's Black

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 66

Forest) provides support along the entire value creation chain. This includes vacuum components, vacuum gripping systems, systems for manual handling as well as clamping solutions.

Manual work processes are particularly common in the wood and furniture industry, for moving wooden boards, pre-cut parts and assemblies. For example, Schmalz vacuum handling systems that are operated manually are used for the loading of panel dividing saws. In order to reliably grip different formats and weights, the vacuum specialist has two series in its product range: the vacuum tube lifter Jumbo and the vacuum lifting device VacuMaster. Schmalz offers the appropriate suction pads for both series depending on requirements.

The tube lifter Jumbo makes the frequent lifting of workpieces with different shapes up to a weight of 300 kilograms easier. The device is operated by just one person – precisely and ergonomically.

Handling and loading times can be significantly reduced. The vacuum lifting devices from the VacuMaster series are suitable for transporting wooden workpieces with a weight of up to 2,000 kilograms, and can also be operated by one person. They have a modular design and are sturdy and reliable. For ergonomic work at all heights, Schmalz has swiveling operator handles in its product range. With suction pads, that are continuously adjustable, unwieldy sheets in different sizes can be moved easily. The lifting device VacuMaster Window is recommended for the safe

Schmalz provides support along the entire value creation chain. This includes vacuum components, vacuum gripping systems, systems for manual handling as well as clamping solutions.

VCBL-B vacuum blocks offer an attractive alternative to the original Biesse suction pads.

Vacuum area gripping system FMP being used to handle structured wood.

transportation of sensitive glass sheets and windows as well as multi-sash windows.

Finally, the entire potential for rationalization can be increased in combination with aluminum cranes from Schmalz. They are very responsive, which particularly has a positive effect on ergonomics as well as the efficiency of internal material flow. The effort required to move the crane is low; the workpieces can be easily and quickly moved on the swivel arm and put in the desired position.

After lifting a sheet and moving it with a crane, the next process step is often the depositing

and processing of it on a CNC machining center. Schmalz offers a variety of clamping solutions for such machines from different manufactures. Vacuum blocks safely fix the flat workpieces on the underside, and the machine can then process the sheet on all edges as well as on the upper side. The company developed new vacuum blocks for use with the CNC wood machining tools manufactured by the Italian company Biesse. The VCBL-B suction pads are compatible with the original suction pads and can be easily attached in the suction block mount on the machine.

The suction pads from Schmalz eliminate the costly replacement of complete vacuum blocks in

Effortless Lifting

the event of collision or wear: It is possible to simply replace the suction plates. In conventional systems, the entire vacuum block has to be replaced. Schmalz thereby lowers the costs for spare parts and reduces machine downtimes.

With automated systems from Schmalz, users can exploit further potential for rationalization for wooden materials. For example, the FXP/FMP area grippers, which have been proven in practice many times, are suitable for use in the furniture industry. This enables the handling of coated wood in many shapes and sizes. Schmalz has equipped the system with a special insert element and leak-

free check valves to optimize flow. Tests have indicated that the gripping system generates on average 86 per cent more suction force on unplaned workpieces and 87 per cent more suction force on workpieces with smooth surfaces than comparable products on the market. For the user, this means reliable gripping of workpieces, improved energy efficiency and cost-effective manufacturing.

Treotham Automation www.treotham.co.nz 0800 847 200

Precision Holding Ergonomic Vacuum Lifting and Secure Vacuum Clamping Treotham Automation supplies the full range of Schmalz Vacuum Lifting devices, customizable and suitable for standard weights up to 750kg.

Schmalz clamping solutions are used for a wide range of machining and assembly Go to the website tasks. With vacuum power, components made from wood, metal, glass or plastic are fixed securely and without distortion.

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 67

Contact Treotham Automation • 0800 847 2004 • info@treotham.co.nz

Tanova FLEX unit as installed on ALUNAN T slimwall soft close drawer.

FLEX is now even more flexible!

With a reputation for working collaboratively with both kitchen designers and kitchen makers, it’s not surprising that the latest innovation from FIT’s Tanova team originated with trade feedback.

Original Tanova FLEX launched in mid-2024 Tanova FLEX, a clever frame and bucket kitchen waste bin system, was originally launched mid-2024, swiftly becoming a popular option.

Sitting atop the drawer, FLEX is highly compatible; it suits most slimwall drawer brands available in New Zealand, providing a consistent opening and closing action across the kitchen.

Original FLEX units consisted of a frame, buckets and top cover panel that effectively seals the unit when it’s closed. They were launched in two colours; Silk White and Umbra Grey and for cabinets widths of 300mm, 350mm, 400mm and 450mm.

Reduced cost FIT crew discovered that some kitchen makers and installers preferred to install FLEX without the top cover panel and that got them thinking. They quickly saw an opportunity to reduce both waste and cost and, just a few weeks later, they made FLEX Base models – without top cover panel and therefore reduced in cost – available.

FLEX units have been designed primarily for 500mm deep cutlery height drawers, which also assists in keeping costs down.

The excellent compatibility of the original FLEX Standard is retained with FLEX Base; it integrates easily with most slimwall drawer brands. Like FLEX Standard, FLEX Base is

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 68

Tanova FLEX Base requires zero assembly and installs in less than five minutes, with no templates required. superbly easy to clean in place as there’s no crevasses or dirt traps, plus, with no fiddly clip together or removable parts to mislay or damage, FLEX is extremely low maintenance.

Great news for installers Tanova FLEX Standard is by no means difficult to install, but the new FLEX Base is a dream

for installers! FLEX Base units require zero assembly and are incredibly easy to install; less than five minutes and no templates required.

With reduced waste, reduced cost and a simple, efficient installation process, Tanova’s FLEX Base kitchen waste bin range is ideal for multi-unit projects and new and renovated kitchen projects where every cent counts.

For more info about FIT’s Tanova ranges, check their website – www. fit-nz.co.nz - or contact your Fit rep, phone 09 431 0025 or email info@fit-nz.co.nz to discuss your requirements.

TANOVA FLEX

NEW MODELS AVAILABLE NOW THE LATEST KITCHEN BIN SOLUTION FROM TANOVA, BY FIT

ZERO ASSEMBLY 5 MINUTE INSTALLATION

Tanova FLEX, a cleverly created frame and bucket system, sits on your slim wall drawer, ensuring consistent opening and closing action across the entire kitchen.

At FIT, we are all for reducing cost and reducing waste. Now, YOU choose the right FLEX option for your project; FLEX Standard with top cover panel or FLEX Base without it.

TANOVA FLEX: • works with YOUR slimline drawer • saves time & money, zero assembly & installs in minutes with no templates needed • easy to clean in situ, no dirt traps or crevasses • ST ‫ܪ‬IIQ^ HQNU YTLJYMJW TW WJRT[FGQJ UFWYX YT LJY QTXY TW IFRFLJI • available in Silk White and Umbra Grey for 300mm, 350mm, 400mm and 450mm cabinets • UWNRFWNQ^ IJXNLSJI KTW RR IJJU HZYQJW^ MJNLMY IWF\JWX YT keep costs down

Top Cover Panel Now Optional FLEX Unit for 350mm Cabinet Shown on ALUNAN T Models with 20L buckets carry the New Zealand Made licence

HEAD OFFICE & WAREHOUSE: Northgate Business Park, 22 Hood St, Wellsford 0900 SHOWROOM BY APPOINTMENT & WAREHOUSE: 4 Morse Rd, Wigram, Christchurch 8042 PHONE 09 431 0025 EMAIL info@fit-nz.co.nz www.fit-nz.co.nz

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 69

Precision edgebanding How Leitz is powering New Zealand’s furniture & joinery edge finishing In New Zealand’s competitive furniture and joinery industry, the market is changing— output is faster, batches are smaller, and materials are more diverse. Meeting these demands means avoiding costly downtime and delivering flawless finishes.

Supporting major OEMs and all leading machines Leitz operates as an OEM supplier to global woodworking machine suppliers such as Homag and SCM, and supports tooling applications on edgebanders from brands like Biesse, OTT, Felder and Holzer. Whether it’s edge-trimming sawblades, diamond profile cutters or scraper knives, Leitz has a comprehensive range tailored for New Zealand manufacturers.

The Diamaster WhisperCut product range is available in numerous design variants and can be used on almost all common machine types. (Photo: Leitz)

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JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 70

Innovations that drive efficiency New Zealand workshops face shifting materials and varying panel thicknesses. Leitz offers a variety of industry-leading solutions, tailored to individual manufacturers' requirements.

Diamaster EdgeExpert The EdgeExpert range produces tear and chip-free edges, even on dense or laminated materials.

Adjustable jointing cutters streamline processing by cutting setup times and maintaining superior surface quality thanks to high-grade diamond tips and optimised tooth geometry. With up to 10 times higher edge life, it means fewer tool changes.

FlexTrim Profile Cutters Designed specifically for Homag edgebanding machines, the flexTrim allows automatic profile changes through multiprofile technology. This saves time and increases quality, while

the diamond-tipped knives are suitable for all softwood, hardwood, veneer and plastic edgebanding.

presence with global expertise, full support of leading machinery brands and tooling engineered for the local environment.

Diamaster WhisperCut The Diamaster WhisperCut systems are lightweight and quiet, with excellent cut quality and finishes. The exchangeable knives provide low costs per running metre due to resharpenable and replaceable cutting edges. Users can change the cutting edges quickly and easily on-site.

With a full range of sawblades, profile cutters, scraper knives and servicing options, Leitz supports suppliers who demand high performance, low downtime and outstanding finishes.

Edgebanding service and support In New Zealand, Leitz offers diamond and carbide tool servicing with the same advanced equipment used in our production facility in Germany, ensuring consistent quality and rapid turnaround. The Leitz Penrose Service Centre in Auckland serves the region, and reliable pickup and delivery means minimum machine downtime for you.

Learn more at: Leitz.co.nz 0800 578 665 sales@leitz.co.nz Leitz uses state of the art Vollmer diamond eroding machines for diamond tipped tool servicing

Why New Zealand manufacturers should choose Leitz For New Zealand’s joinery and panel industries, the tooling behind the machine is just as critical as the machine itself. Leitz offers industry-leading solutions; a local

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 71

Wellington Master Joiners Golf Day

Community at the heart of Master Joiners On 7 November, the Wellington Master Joiners branch gathered for one of the most anticipated dates on its calendar: the Golf Day for Charity at Manor Park Golf Club.

But beyond the swings, the sunshine and the friendly competition, the day served as a reminder of what it truly means to be a Master Joiner—being part of a community that shows up for one another and for the wider industry we serve.

The impressive turnout spoke volumes. Members from across the branch (and beyond!) came together not just to enjoy a day on the green, but to support

When Master Joiners gather, generosity and good spirit follow naturally.

Wellington Free Ambulance— an organisation that stands by communities in times of need. The thousands of dollars raised is more than just a fundraising figure; it’s a testament to the camaraderie and shared purpose that defines our membership. When Master Joiners gather, generosity and good spirit follow naturally.

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 72

Events like this are a powerful reflection of who we are. Yes, our members are skilled craftspeople and committed professionals, but they are also part of a network built on connection, support and genuine friendship. Whether on the job site or on the golf course, being a Master Joiner means having peers to rely on, people to laugh with, and colleagues who genuinely care.

A huge thank you goes to Grant Smith, Commercial Joinery and the Branch committee for their exceptional organisation, ensuring the day ran seamlessly from tee-off to the final tally. And of course, our appreciation goes to the sponsors whose contributions

brought the event to life. Their support reinforces how much can be achieved when industry and community come together.

To all who joined us—thank you. It was a day filled with laughs, good fun and a great cause. Congratulations to the winners, and here’s to many more opportunities to connect, support and celebrate what makes Master Joiners such a strong and spirited community. 

SICAM Pordenone Italy 14-17 October

Italian fair suggests next seasons furniture will be beautiful!

If the creativity, beauty, charm, innovative functionality, and intelligent solutions we’ve seen over these four days at SICAM become part of next season’s furniture collections, then we can expect to see furnishings that are not only beautiful, but also comfortable and highly functional!

This feeling perfectly captured the mood in Pordenone during the sixteenth edition of the International Exhibition of Components, Semi Finished Products and Accessories for the Furniture Industry — which once again proven to be a great opportunity to experience firsthand the state of the art of the entire furniture supply chain.

A sort of “happy island” where an atmosphere of positivity, optimism, and great energy could be felt throughout.

According to the very first estimates, from 14th to 17th October 23,818 visitors, representing more than 9300 companies from 113 countries, attended the fair. Italy naturally accounted for the largest share (61%), followed by strong contingents of visitors from Germany, Spain, China and a strong presence of East Europe.

They were welcomed by 692 exhibitors from 33 countries, occupying all 19,150 net square metres of exhibition space

available — the entire Pordenone exhibition center — including s m a l l , m e d i u m , a n d l a rg e enterprises alike.

The four days confirmed the maturity of the fair, as reflected in the consistent figures for both exhibitors and visitors. “For several editions now, SICAM has been an unmissable event for everyone in the furniture supply chain,” comments Carolina Giobbi. “All professionals of the sector come to SICAM — a source of great pride for us as organizers, even though the true credit goes to the drawing power of the companies that choose to exhibit here in Pordenone.”

This edition successfully balanced the time dedicated to business — four days during which exhibitors and visitors were fully focused on their professional goals — with an increasingly rich fuori salone program featuring events and gatherings organized by companies and within the framework of ‘Enjoy Pordenone with SICAM’, the initiative promoted by the City of Pordenone.

“The right balance between the time spent at the fair and what happens afterwards is certainly one of the key ingredients of SICAM’s success: informal meetings, conviviality, and the simple pleasure of being together often spark new ideas, inspiration, and opportunities for the future.”

A final mention goes to what is quickly becoming a cherished tradition for SICAM: on the last day of the fair, a large group of students from local schools and design institutes accepted the invitation of the ADI Friuli Venezia Giulia Delegation — the Italian Association for Industrial

Design — to explore how design and the furniture industry can shape their professional future.

The next edition — the 17th SICAM — will take place from 20th to 23rd October 2026.

We can provide expert advice on products and service for all your saws and specialist tooling for the woodworking and joinery industry.

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The National Exhibition and Convention Center in Hongqiao, Shanghai.

CIFF Shanghai 2025 New color palettes deliver a vision in blue Creating colors that go beyond the aesthetic and create a mood is the inspiration behind AkzoNobel’s 2026 Color of the Year, comprising not one but three hero shades of Interpon powder coatings to imagine working and living spaces that allow us to stop, reflect, and rediscover our natural rhythm.

The trilogy of indigo blues each leads its own distinct and complementary palette to transform exteriors, interiors, lighting, furniture, and furnishings across a wide range of sectors with their own unique sense of calm.

Noir 2000 Sable Dark Blue anchors Serenity, a palette filled with wintery, earthy tones that create contemplative and restorative spaces. This palette works particularly well in offices or healthcare settings where people require respite from visual noise and stress.

Airy blue Brisbane Sable leads Fluidity, an earthy and warm palette for connected spaces. These natural brick and terracotta shades come together to cultivate harmonious spaces – designed to bring comfort to residential and hospitality settings.

Liberty is led by Baku Fine Texture. This palette combines a series of energetic shades to deliver a youthful, liberating atmosphere that is ideal for education or workplace environments where the imagination needs to be stimulated, and ideas nurtured.

Bob Dirks, from AkzoNobel says: “Color is so much more than an aesthetic, it is an essential tool to cultivate the energy of a space. Whether people need to be invigorated and energized, or relaxed and reflective, color palettes are influential in how we feel in any environment.

For more visit www.interpon.com/gb/en/insights/coty26

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 74

An edition that consolidated its role as a global hub for design and innovation in furniture On September 12, the 56th edition of the China International Furniture Fair (Shanghai) successfully concluded at the National Exhibition and Convention Center in Hongqiao, reaffirming its position as one of Asia's most dynamic platforms for innovation in design and furniture.

The event achieved significant figures across all key indicators, highlighting its growing influence in connecting global markets.

Spanning 300,000 square meters, the fair hosted over 1,500 domestic and international brands, showcasing their latest collections to 92,709 professional visitors— including 80,836 from China and 11,873 from overseas. The 13.23% increase in international visitors compared to the previous year confirms CIFF Shanghai's growing appeal as a strategic reference point for global business and design excellence, strengthening the event's central role in driving consumption, facilitating trade, and creating meaningful connections within the global furniture industry.

With design at its core, the event encompassed eight major product categories—from sofas and sleep systems to office furniture,

production machinery, home accessories, and outdoor and decorative collections.

Among the key highlights was the debut of the groundbreaking “New Retail Pavilion,” which established a new standard for retail evolution by presenting an integrated ecosystem of the entire furniture supply chain. Leading brands chose CIFF Shanghai as their preferred platform for launching new products, unveiling over 1,000 new items, 90% of which were world premieres.

From material innovation to experiential applications, exhibitors redefined living aesthetics through cutting-edge design language that seamlessly combines functionality, beauty, and sustainability. The presence of 15 emerging design studios alongside established brands created a dynamic creative landscape, transforming the fair into a vibrant network of inspiration and collaboration.

The 57th CIFF Guangzhou— returns from 18–21 March and 28–31 March 2026 under a new theme: CONNECT • CREATE.

The perfect partnership

IES delivers a seamless extraction solution for Stylish Custom Joinery When Stylish Custom Joinery in Wellington recently invested in a significant upgrade to their machinery and workshop, they also needed to upgrade their dust extraction capabilities to match.

They were looking for more than just new equipment; they were looking for a reliable partner and a solution that would deliver uncompromised performance and a cleaner, more productive workspace.

Customized Power and Performance The ideal system for their needs was the DD2150-60 with the popular pneumatic bin kit fitted, powered by a 22KW high efficiency materials handling fan. This system was specifically designed to handle the demanding requirements of their shop, connecting to two CNC routers, an edgebander, and other key woodworking equipment.

The DD2150 series is a proven, cost-effective entry point for centralized dust extraction in the woodworking and plastics industries and is proudly New Zealand-made. It’s designed to help like-minded NZ manufacturers achieve cleaner, more productive workspaces.

A key part of this installation was our wellregarded pneumatic bin kit, a feature chosen for 80% of our installations in the DD2150 series. This clever add-on simplifies the waste handling process, creating a secure, dust-tight seal for quick, effortless bin changeovers. It’s a small addition that makes a huge difference in achieving a cleaner, safer, and more efficient operation.

Exceptional Service, Every Step of the Way What truly sets the project apart is the dedication of our inhouse installation team.

The commitment to a complete and seamless experience was immediately evident to the customer.

Here is what Dave and the team at Stylish Custom Joinery had to say during the install: "Just a quick update on progress ... The boys are now ducting up to the machines and I must say you should be proud of them both, mate. They have busted their chaps and been here till well after 9 pm both nights. They

A key part of the system is the pneumatic bin kit which allows a quick and dust free change-over.

have both been incredible to deal with, very accommodating and knowledgeable in both their pre-planning to execution of task in hand. Both Matt & myself are very pleased and would highly recommend IES going forwards."

A Lasting Partnership For Stylish Custom Joinery, the installation of the DD2150-60 system and pneumatic bin kit represents an investment in a cleaner, more efficient future, backed by the assurance of direct OEM service.

This success story highlights not only the quality and value of our New Zealand-made systems but also our unwavering commitment to providing exceptional, partner-level service that supports our customers' business goals.

www.i-e-s.co.nz

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 75

NKBA Executive Officer Rachael Kwok

NKBA predict 2026 The National Kitchen and Bathroom Association have recently completed their annual Trends Survey. Distributed to their membership base of designers, joiners, manufacturers and suppliers, it is always fascinating to capture their predictions for the year ahead.

This year, the NKBA have seen a shake up in the colours and styles in favour, with creams, greens and timber coming out on top.

Porcelain continues its domination in both the kitchen and bathroom space, and we can expect earthy and warm tones across every space from the benchtop to the cabinets, to the walls and floors.

In the kitchen space, NKBA designers say 2026 will be the year of timber cabinetry including walnut and oak alongside the warmer tones of cream and sand.

With 58% of designers predicting walnut as the material of choice.

NKBA designer, Jo Comins of NT Joinery, says while creams are certainly popular, she is also seeing forest greens having a moment. “I have been regularly specifying products like Possum from Laminex alongside another green ‘Atmoss’. These tones have been incredibly popular and combine beautifully with timbers,” shares Jo. For the finish, New Zealand kitchens will be matte says 51% of NKBA survey respondents. This is followed by textured.

In benchtop trends, NKBA designers say deep, earthy tones alongside warm and natural shades will take over.

Jo Comins says earthy is calming, relaxing and looks like New Zealand. “For me, earthy is outdoorsy, it’s warm and cosy.

People are loving these shades as they continue their shift away from whites and greys. I think earthy is here for a while.”

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 76

For benchtop materials, 79% of respondents said porcelain is preferred and for the splashback, the trend will continue of the benchtop flowing up the wall.

NKBA says alongside earthy kitchens, we will potentially see the return of mid-century design, with innovative smart technology, integrated appliances and plenty of storage taking centre stage.

Anna Blackwell, design consultant at Millbrook Kitchens, says midcentury is making a comeback and for good reason. “We are seeing a lot of beautiful greens and warmer colours return to the kitchen, with many clients requesting a mid-century look. I would say the higher-end market has always enjoyed the style of mid-century; however, it is nice to see the midrange market embrace the timber

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vibes. To do mid-century right, I recommend incorporating lots of wood, warm tones, mixed metals, and colour,” says Anna.

And the cost? NKBA members say the average kitchen is currently costing $30-$50K excluding appliances and trades. In terms of time, it will take 3-4 months from design to install.

When we look to the bathroom, NKBA designers say it will likely follow the trends of the kitchen, with porcelain and earthy vibes in vogue. Must haves for the bathroom include creative lighting, organic materials and floating vanities.

Helen Bush, a designer at Bays Joinery, says most clients are looking for a feeling of opulence in their bathroom space and a floating vanity helps deliver this vision. “Bathrooms are frequently limited in size, and floating vanities contribute to an

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enhanced sense of spaciousness by leaving the area beneath them unobstructed. Strategic lighting placement further supports this effect,” notes Helen.

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In terms of cost, some designers said bathrooms could cost under $10,000, while the average bathroom was between $50-60k.

In terms of timing, the average bathroom is taking 2-3 months from design to install.

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All in all, NKBA says joiners should prepare for a year of warm and earthy tones, with kitchen and bathroom cabinetry embracing the calming effects of timber and beautiful creams.

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JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 77

Built to last How Egmont Air helped Advanced Joinery to expand without compromise When you’ve been crafting quality kitchens and joinery for nearly four decades, you understand that attention to detail makes all the difference. Advanced Joinery, Canterbury’s multi-award winning joinery company, recently made a significant investment in their most valuable assets – their people – by upgrading their industrial dust extraction system with Egmont Air. The Challenge: Outgrowing Their Space Darrin Dudson, Managing Director of Advanced Joinery, faced a familiar challenge for successful businesses: growth.

“We just needed more space, more capacity,” Darrin explains. “We had no room to consider more dust extraction. No room in our office, no room in our factory – it was unproductive and, to me, a little bit unhealthy, especially dust-wise.”

For a company that prides itself on manufacturing excellence and has built a reputation for craftsmanship over 39 years, maintaining a clean, safe working environment isn’t just about compliance – it’s about protecting their greatest asset.

“That’s a massive thing for me, to keep the guys fit and healthy,” Darrin emphasises. “They’re our biggest asset out of this whole business – it’s the guys.”

The Solution: Egmont Air’s Industrial Dust Extraction Working with Todd Prestidge, Director and Clean Air Consultant at Egmont Air, Advanced Joinery implemented a comprehensive industrial dust extraction solution centred around the Egmont FMM3 Filter System. With a maximum capacity of 15,000m³/h, the system was specifically designed to handle the workshop’s total airflow requirements of 11,339m³/ hr with room to grow.

The FMM3 industrial dust system represents cutting edge dust extraction technology.

The FMM3 industrial dust extraction system represents the cutting edge of dust collection t e c h n o l o g y, s p e c i f i c a l l y engineered for NZ’s medium to large-sized manufacturers. Its modular galvanised construction ensures years of reliable outdoor operation while providing the flexibility to expand as the business grows.

Key features include: • Generous filter surface area designed to handle the combination of fine polystyrene particles and

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 78

• • • •

timber dust High-efficiency needle-felt media that allows clean air discharge to atmosphere Automatic reverse-pulse jet cleaning that maintains filter sleeves every 30 minutes Rotary-valve airlock for efficient waste discharge Compact footprint that maximises workshop space

The Eco-Power Advantage One of the standout features of the Advanced Joinery installation is the Eco-Power system, which includes a variable speed drive and

pressure stabiliser controller. This intelligent system automatically adjusts fan speed based on the number of outlets in use, providing substantial power savings and noise reduction.

For Advanced Joinery’s 18.5kW system, even a 20% reduction in fan speed translates to 50% power savings – approximately $4,440 annually in ongoing energy costs. It’s an investment that pays for itself while contributing to the company’s environmental responsibility.

Real-World Results: A Transformed Workshop The transformation has been immediately apparent to everyone at Advanced Joinery.

“The workshop’s a lot tidier, not as much dust flying around everywhere,” Darrin notes with satisfaction. The improvements extend beyond just cleanliness.

P r e v i o u s l y, w o r k e r s s p e n t considerable time managing dust – blowing down tables, changing bags on individual extractors, and dealing with dust clouds that would settle throughout the workshop.

“I reckon that would save us at least 6 hours a week of not changing bags,” Darrin calculates.

“Now we just pull that pneumatic button, drive the forklift under it, put it on the skip on the rubbish truck, and job done.”

The old system required constant maintenance, with bags falling off improperly fitted extractors and creating more dust problems. The centralised system has eliminated these issues entirely. “All those timber machines are all on one system now,” explains Darrin, highlighting the efficiency gains from the integrated approach.

Beyond Compliance: A Matter of Pride For Advanced Joinery, this investment represents more than just meeting health and safety requirements – it shows their commitment to excellence in every aspect of their operation.

“We like to have a tidy operation.

I don’t like going out there and seeing dust and stuff everywhere – to me it looks bad,” Darrin explains. “But now it’s nice and tidy and presentable.”

the system was specifically designed to handle the workshop’s total airflow requirements of 11,339m³/hr with room to grow.

This attention to detail aligns perfectly with Advanced Joinery’s reputation for quality that has been built over decades of serving clients throughout New Zealand.

As members of the National Kitchen and Bathroom and Master Joiners Associations, they understand that excellence extends beyond the final product to encompass every aspect of the manufacturing process.

As Advanced Joinery continues to grow and serve clients across New Zealand with their custom kitchens, doors, windows, and specialised joinery, their investment in a professional dust extraction system ensures they can maintain the high standards that have defined their business for nearly four decades – while keeping their most valuable assets, their skilled craftspeople, healthy and productive.

For businesses looking to improve their dust extraction systems, Egmont Air offers comprehensive consultation and custom solutions.

Contact us at 0800 781 200 to discuss your requirements.

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JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 79 J

2025 a tough year but not without opportunity

Steering a course Ian Featherstone

Ian Featherstone is a cabinetmaker, business advisor, mentor and leadership coach.

Glass Half Full provides tailored solutions to lift performance and drive growth. Ian specialises in the joinery & cabinetry sector and other construction related industries. For more information or to find out how you can move your team forward, please visit www. glasshalffull.co.nz

As 2025 wraps up, it’s fair to say it has been a challenging year for many in the joinery and kitchen manufacturing sector.

Workloads have been inconsistent and margins tight. While the end of the year has brought some relief for a number of businesses, others are still navigating very tough conditions.

Reflecting on recent conversations across the industry, a few common themes stand out, you are not alone: • • • • •

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•

•

Lumpy workloads creating feast-or-famine production cycles Consumers Shopping around believing in this economy they can get a bargain Install dates slipping, often without explanation Commercial projects lacking clear schedules, or any schedule at all Architects taking excessive time to approve shop drawings, putting deadlines— and profitability—at risk Commercial tenders becoming increasingly competitive, with new entrants to this market underestimating complexity and the labour required A pre-Christmas workload spike, but reduced internal urgency and productivity, after a long period without real pressure A shortage of skilled people, with few strong candidates actively seeking work

None of these issues are new—but they feel sharper this year.

Be Proactive: Focus on What You Can Control Stephen Covey’s Habit #1 from The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People is simple but powerful: Be Proactive. Covey reminds us that taking responsibility for what we can influence—and maintaining self-awareness and calm—gives us the ability to make better decisions, especially when conditions are tough.

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 80

COVEY, S. (1989) THE 7 HABITS OF HIGHLY EFFECTIVE PEOPLE. NEW YORK: SIMON AND SCHUSTER. P. 71

The “Proactive Model” is as relevant in a joinery workshop as it is in any boardroom.

So, as you plan for 2026, here are practical actions that can make a real difference—both to your business results and to how you navigate the wider industry challenges.

4. Make Use of Internal Capacity If your key people have spare capacity, direct that energy into improvements: • Lead generation • Manufacturing efficiencies • Reducing rework • Strengthening quality systems Small improvements compound quickly.

Practical Actions for 2026 1. Get Clear on Who You Are and Who You Serve Re-affirm your business values, value proposition, and ideal clients and projects. When workloads fluctuate, focus on the work that best aligns with your strengths and generates the greatest return for the long term.

2. Get Out There Even in a highly technical, digital world, people still buy from people. Make 2026 a year of connection: • Attend local business events • Turn up at industry gatherings • Meet architects, interior designers, and specifiers in person, attend events that target them as well.

Visibility builds trust—and trust brings work.

3. Reconnect With Previous Clients Your past clients already know your quality. Reach out, remind them what else you can build for them, and consider offering a consultation voucher or similar incentive. Small, proactive steps can unlock big opportunities.

5. Build Your Team From the Inside Out Waiting for the perfect recruit to appear is not going to happen.

Look for people with the right attitude, invest in training, and focus on building a strong culture.

Graham Henry rebuilt the All Blacks with a simple philosophy: “Better People Make Better All Blacks.” The result? A win rate of 86% and a Rugby World Cup. The lesson for us: find good people, grow them, and strengthen your team from within.

Final Thought While 2025 has been hard, our industry has always shown resilience, creativity, and grit. By focusing on what we can control— our actions, our relationships, our culture—we put ourselves in the best position to thrive when the market inevitably turns.

Here’s to a productive and proactive 2026 

PRODUCT focus

Blum have refined several installation features in Revego version 3 due for release here in February.

REVEGO Version 3

for doors that practically install themselves Next February, REVEGO will be even simpler to install thanks to a series of thoughtful refinements in a version 3 release. The optimisations have been courtesy of industry feedback that Blum has received globally since the products initial release. Below are just a few of the benefits we think you’ll love!

•

•

•

Half height and full height door options – The door range has increased dramatically.

Finally we can offer on bench REVEGO fronts, with a new front height range of 1130 – 2980 mm!

Fewer screws, faster installation – REVEGO uno now requires just 19 screws in each door front, saving 34%, while REVEGO duo has been streamlined to need only 35 screws (previously 73), a reduction of 52%.

Lighter components – The track weight has been reduced by 30%, and the hinge bracket set is 3kgs lighter. Even the packaging has been optimised, with hinge bracket set box size now almost half.

•

Improved ergonomics – The height adjustment has been moved up to face height, eliminating the discomfort of working at floor level.

•

Simplified installation – REVEGO duo doors can now be installed in two parts, removing the need to hang both doors simultaneously.

•

Standardised planning – Profiles now feature a consistent drilling dimension, making layout & preparation more straightforward.

•

Effortless operation – the door releases from the pocket with noticeably less resistance, enhancing the user experience.

E-SERVICES and online in Blum Shop as soon as it’s available for purchase. If you’re planning for a REVEGO being ordered or installed in the new year, touch base with your Blum Sales Representative or email info.nz@blum.com to find out more about the exciting enhancements you’re about to discover!

www.blum.com

With these refinements, REVEGO continues to deliver on Blum’s commitment to innovation and installer-friendly solutions—helping joiners save time, reduce effort, and achieve a flawless finish.

The new REVEGO components and planning will be automatically uploaded to Blum’s online services such as Product Configurator in

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 81

STATE OF THE INDUSTRY Reports from Branch Presidents November 2025

CANTERBURY Seasons Greetings to all, there has been a lot more positivity in the upcoming workloads for the local Canterbury Master joiners. This is a great sign of what is ahead for us and a positive outlook for the upand-coming year of 2026.

The local Canterbury Master Joiners awards was the event for us in the later part of this year. It was held at the Blum showroom. where we are always made welcome, it’s a great place for the event. The competition was second to none with a great display of excellence in projects by all joiners entered. Congratulations to all winners and this would set a great representation for Canterbury ahead of the NZ Master Joiner awards. A big thank you to the organizers, sponsors, joiners and all the people behind the scene that made this night possible, this would not be possible without your help and support! one event not to be missed next year!

This year I had the pleasure in attending master joiners conference along with many others in Rotorua, every year I have been it’s been well organised and structured to benefit the individuals, I personally always get a lot out of it. I met a lot of new people had some great conversations with business owners, and suppliers.

Rotorua is a great destination, for conference, the conference center itself was well positioned with local bars, eateries, and hotels all within walking distance it’s a great opportunity to network with other like minded individuals and make the most of soaking up personal growth opportunities provided by key note speakers.

The competition was tough with some beautiful presentations of workmanship, Congratulations to all the winners in their categories.

Canterbury itself overall took away a lot of awards. It’s great to see all of the entries and people taking their time and effort to do so.

We are now entering the crazy time of the year in our industry, crazy, where the jolly old fat man

is knocking on our door and our customers like their products completed in a timely manner, so they can achieve their goals before the end of the year.

Please remember to check in with your staff, keeping the lines of communication open, keep your customers informed, most importantly look after yourselves and each other, Rome wasn’t built in a day so keep pathing the path.

I wish you all the best for the holidays break, rest up and enjoy the time with your families. All the best. - Graham Woodham CENTRAL For Master Joiners Central Branch, it’s been an eventful year. Kristine (our past president) ran a number of great events throughout the year that brought members together to have fun, let our hair down (for those who still have hair, lol), and connect to strengthen relationships.

A few of those events were such a hit that we’ve locked them into our regular calendar. Thank you, Kristine. I encourage all members to get involved and stay connected — we need it.

On the local business front, Central has had it reasonably hard in 2025.

Reviewing reports from our local council, the Central Economic Development Agency (CEDA), and the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), they all reflect the same sentiment: slow, conservative, subdued.

Economic growth has been modest, with low numbers of new dwelling consents — 396 for the year to July 2025, down around 3%. It will be important to keep an eye on the Council’s 2025 Implementation Plan to see what’s planned for residential development in 2026 and beyond. Non-residential consents, on the other hand, are up — indicating commercial, industrial, and institutional projects are gaining pace.

A good example of the government’s investment into the region is the Te Ahu a Turanga highway, which opened in June.

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 82

This has significantly reopened the gateway to the East Coast.

It will be interesting to see what opportunities this brings, with Woodville already seeing residential growth after many years of struggle since the Gorge closed back in 2017 — great to see some positive movement there.

There are other notable projects in the pipeline too. As I mentioned in my last report, our airport is currently a pile of rubble but soon to be a shiny new terminal. Possible new libraries and an inland port are a few other examples, so there’s reason for optimism on that front.

That said, it’s still tough out there. Our suppliers are feeling the pinch — I was talking to our waste guy recently, and regionally we’re down to about two-thirds of our usual output (now that’s an interesting indicator of production, or lack of it!). So, we need to keep doing good business and nurturing those key relationships.

2026 is just around the corner, so I wish you all a well-earned break — and we’ll see what the new year holds for us all. - Vaughn Tongs HAWKE’S BAY /POVERTY BAY Overview We recently held our regional Hawke’s Bay / Poverty Bay Master Joiners meeting. Attendance was solid, and discussion was constructive across all members present.

Current Sentiment Most attendees reported being cautiously optimistic about the outlook for work in the new year.

While workloads remain steady for the remainder of this year, there is an underlying sense of uncertainty regarding the economic environment and how it may impact demand beyond the first quarter of next year.

Key points from discussion Workload: Most members are maintaining a reasonable level of work through to the end of the year.

Forward orders into early 2026 are beginning to pick up, though at a more moderate pace than in

previous years.

Market Conditions: There is continued pressure from interest rates and construction costs, but signs of increased customer enquiry and design work give reason for cautious confidence.

Workforce: Recruitment and retention of skilled staff remain ongoing challenges, though a few members noted success with apprentices and training initiatives.

Materials & Supply: Material availability has largely stabilised, though pricing remains high.

Regional Collaboration: Members discussed opportunities to share knowledge and collaborate on best practices, particularly in training and compliance.

Outlook: Overall, sentiment in the region is steady. Members are preparing for a potentially more positive year ahead, provided the general construction and housing markets show continued improvement. - Brent Marshall OTAGO / SOUTHLAND How lovely is it to finally be getting a bit of sunshine with this spring weather … recent storm chaos conveniently ignored!

Down here, things are feeling very much like the classic pre-Christmas rush — busy workshops, full install calendars, and plenty of coffee being consumed. It’s good to be busy, and even better to feel like we’re heading towards a welldeserved break.

Across the region, workloads are continuing to strengthen.

Production schedules are now pushing into the new year, and we’re hearing much more optimistic stories from members.

Local councils are reporting an uplift in building consents, particularly for new residential builds — a promising sign looking into 2026. The overall vibe: cautiously positive with a good dash of momentum.

By the time this reaches your inbox, we will have enjoyed our End-ofYear Christmas Get Together on Saturday 15 November in Dunedin,

which is always as much fun as it is heart warming. We’re very lucky to have such a great group in Otago–Southland — supportive, collaborative, and always up for a laugh. If you’re new, or thinking about joining events but feel a bit shy — please reach out. Everyone is welcome, and I’m always happy to chat one-on-one. We are currently finalising our 2026 events calendar, which will be sent out shortly.

we are now into the Christmas Period and thinking about forward planning into the New Year. From my perspective it’s been a tough year with not many new builds and gas and oil industry at all-time low.

A big highlight for our region this month was awarding our first Master Joiners Internship Award at the Cromwell College Senior Prize giving. The recipient was Ryan Johnston, who received a keep-trophy, a Makita drill/ driver kit valued at $600, and a paid internship placement during the 2026 school holidays across B&M Joinery, Mojo Joinery, and Wedgerwood. This programme is such a fantastic opportunity to support youth pathways into our trade, and we are looking forward to expanding its reach into more schools for 2026.

Staffing levels seem to be fine with most at the right level for this time of year. There are a couple of firms taking on new apprentices, students coming out the school system. We have one joinery firm closing at end of the year after some 25years plus in the joinery industry, we wish them all best in their retirement.

Conference in Rotorua this year was, in my opinion, one of the best yet. The speakers delivered genuinely useful, practical content that we could take home and implement in our businesses.

Our suppliers were engaged, informative, and offered great value through discussion. And the Assembly Session was outstanding.

The level of contribution and collaboration from members provided rich insight and a strong direction. It is inspiring to see so many of you using your voice to help shape our industry.

That’s all from me for now. This time of year can feel full-on, so please look after yourselves, your teams, and each other. Wishing you all a safe, happy and restful Christmas break, and I look forward to seeing everyone again in the New Year. - Kate RuleMunro TARANAKI Well, it’s that time of year again, to write another report for November running into Christmas. Its been amazing weather recently, long may it last as we roll into summer.

This year has flown past, and

Like most regions Taranaki is feeling the pinch of a lack of work over the last year. After a couple of phone calls to members in different areas of Taranaki, most are seeing more inquiries, looking a bit more confident for the new year.

Still not of lot of new builds going on, but there does seem to be a lot of renovation work and small jobs around. The council announced a new 400 section sub- division, but that’s still a year or so away.

There are only small pockets of land around to build new houses, in saying that there seem to be a lot of du-plex housing going up around New Plymouth. Commercial sectors seem to be steady.

Generally, materials are readily available with most supplies being sent out smartly and most suppliers seem to be well stocked, so little to no wait times, which we appreciate.

So, roll on Summer, to nice long days, relaxation and good weather.

Be kind and stay safe. - Bryan Frank WAIKATO-BAY OF PLENTY We are now in the final quarter of 2025, I find myself reflecting on the year — and where the new year is heading. According to data from Statistics New Zealand, the Waikato region saw 2,876 new-dwelling consents issued in May 2025, down 9.2% on a year earlier. While this tells us of a dip, looking ahead indicators suggest we are positioned for resurgence: a national forecast published by MBIE this time last year signalled our Waikato-Bay of Plenty region to experience a roughly 60% increase in new dwelling consents between 2024 and 2029.

Within our membership, workloads are variable—some firms report immediate pressure to secure forward bookings, others are seeing quieter weeks than preferred. Combined with ongoing workforce pressures—recruiting skilled joiners, lack of apprentices, and managing constant materials costs—this climate demands focus and agility. It’s a good time to review your forward pipeline, map and invest in workforce development, and collate your project strategies so your business is ready for the upcoming lift.

The branch committee is in planning mode and will have its annual calendar available shortly, but key to a thriving branch and sector is ensuring we are inclusive – and by that I mean, bring your teams. We know its not always practical and there are considerations to having key people out of the business for any period of time however an aging industry does need to ensure we bring up our teams to support their becoming a part of a fully realised career professional in joinery. We really do owe it ourselves as well as our profession – I think you know it too!

Congratulations to Wackrow Joinery on their success at the Master Joiners Annual Excellence Awards, it was an amazing project and a testament to how the joinery profession is up to the task of bringing to life projects that dreams are made of! Congratulations to Bob and Michael at Joiners Magazine on their wonderful a n n i v e r s a r y – t h i s o ff i c i a l publication is a testament to its content stories and show us how joinery operates around New Zealand with people who share the thrill of manufacturing top joinery products!

Thank you for your ongoing commitment to excellence in joinery, and I look forward to working together into a stronger 2026 - Cherie van der Poel WAITAKI For many it has been a tough six months, but now with spring in the air customers are starting to think about their renovations that they have been putting off so a lot

more enquiry and work coming through. Members seem to have full books leading into Christmas and are taking orders for next year.

The new housing market is starting to get busier which will see more projects for the new year. Some shops are looking for staff mainly due to people moving out of there area and good tradesman retiring.

No one is looking at taking on apprentices at the moment waiting to see how the future goes, but it is something that we need to consider so that when the work loads increase, we have skilled staff to do the work. Generally their are no material supply issues. We are all optimistic that the new year will get off to a better start. - Mark Mitchell 

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JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 83

accounts@masterjoiners.co.nz Chief Executive - Allison Delaney, PO Box 12322, Thorndon, Wellington 6011. p: 04 471 1133, e: support@masterjoiners.co.nz, support

AUCKLAND Advanced Timber Joinery PO Box 132, Silverdale, 217 Spur Road, Silverdale, Ph 09 426 9785, contact Wade Saunderson. NZS4211 Affiliated.

All Timber Joinery (2017) Ltd Unit A, 1058 Great South Road, Mt Wellington, Auckland. Ph 09 270 9605, contact Rory Johns. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Cutting Innovations Ltd 70 The Concourse, Henderson, Auckland 0610, Ph 09 836 9050, contact Alec Stringer Dando Doors and Windows Ltd 62 Stoddard Rd, Mt Roskill. Ph 09 629 0222, contact Peter Facoory. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Danska Cabinetmaking Unit 5, 56 Rewarewa Rd, Raumanga, Whangarei, ph 09 438 1100, contact Aaron & Carolyn Rawson.

Alpha Joinery Services (2010) Ltd 124D Felton Mathew Ave, St Johns, Auckland, Ph 09 578 0391, contact Juan Whippy.

NZS4211 Affiliated.

Dentro Limited 8 Tironui Station Rd, West Takanini, Auckland.

Ph 09 297 7830, contact Leonie Hamill.

Art Deco Interior Ltd 6 Grayson Avenue, Papatoetoe 2104, ph 09 218 8079, contact Sam Ju.

Design Timber Doors & Windows 125 Markham Rd, Ararimu Dury, Auckland, 2579 Ph 021 0868 6770, contact Sailesh Prakash. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Auckland Joinery (2014) Ltd 2 Taylors Road, Morningside, Auckland, Ph 09 846 0346, contact Ross Webster. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Divine Design Ltd (T/A JDC Cabinets) 14 Alfred St, Onehunga, Auckland 2012. ph 09 622 1912, contact Julie Todd.

Aurora Australis Interior 3/184 Mcleod Rd Te Atatu Sth, 0610. contact Amanda Yuan 021 688 901.

Euro Timber Joinery Co Ltd 34 Waipareira Ave, Henderson, Auckland, ph 09 837 1833, contact Shane Paterson.

NZS4211 Affiliated.

BML Builders Ltd 18 Shamrock Drive, Kumeu, Ph 09 412 2350, contact Kaye Butler. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Buildcraft Group 6 Ron Driver Place, East Tamaki, Auckland, 2013. ph 027 735 4646, contact Sean Soo. Canam Joinery Ltd 196 Swanson Rd, Henderson, Auckland. Ph 09 836 0732, contact Angus Welton.

Carlielle Kitchens 138 Manukau Road, Pukekohe, Auckland 2120, Ph 09 238 5222, contact Doug McMiken.

Cedarlite Industries Ltd 4 Mahunga Dr, Mangere Bridge, Auckland, Ph 09 633 0410, contact John Harrison. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Continental Stairs Ltd 32 Waipareira Ave, Henderson, Auckland, ph 09 836 1935, contact John or Anthony van Erp. Counties Joinery 36 Sedgebrook Rd, Patumahoe, RD 1, Pukekohe 2678. Ph 09 236 3271, contact Roy McKerras NZS4211 Affiliated.

Craft Kitchen Plus 65E Crooks Road, East Tamaki Auckland, 2013. Ph 09 272 8266, contact Terry Diao.

Craftsman Cabinets Ltd 140 Patumahoe Rd, Pukekohe, 2678. Ph 021 225 3460, contact Jason Michie.

CT Timber Joinery Ltd 42 View Rd, Wairau Valley, Auckland, Ph 09 444 9041, contact Geoff Knight. NZS4211 Affiliated.

F&R Home Improvements 79 Ellice Rd, Wairau Valley, Auckland. Ph 09 944 4962, contact Frank Ren. Fabulous Kitchens 52 Rangi Rd, Takanini, Auckland. Ph 09 268 2299, contact Ming Feng.

Fineline Joinery Limited 4 Corban Avenue, Henderson, Auckland, Ph 09 836 2212, contact Richard Schaefer.

NZS4211 Affiliated.

Geoff Locke Cabinetmaker Ltd 67 Hodge Road, R D 6, Ruatangata, Whangarei 0176, Ph 09 433 5745, contact Geoff Locke.

Kay Joinery 1226 Oruru Road, R D 2, Peria, Kaitaia, Ph 09 408 5547, contact Daniel Kay. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Smith & Parker Joiners 35 Waipanga Road, Kamo, Whangarei, Ph 09 435 5415, contact Albert Smith or Simon Parker. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Kitchen Dynamics Limited 17 Martyn St, Waiuku, Auckland, Ph 09 235 0252, contact Colin Drummond.

Southey and Knight Group Ltd 258a Roscommon Rd, Wiri, Auckland. Ph 022 455 9975, contact Ryan Southey. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Kiwi Carpentry 131 Quarry Rd, Kaitaia, Northland 0482. Ph 021 0278 9544, contact Andrew Bennie.

Legacy Joinery 34a Leonard Rd, Mt Wellington, Auckland.

Ph 09 953 1465, contact Graham O”Neill.

NZS4211 Affiliated.

Leslie A J & Co Ltd 6/95 Ellice Rd, Wairau Valley, Auckland. Ph 09 479 4662, contact Steve Leslie. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Mahurangi Joinery Ltd 23a Glenmore Drive, Warkworth, Auckland 0910, Ph 09 425 9849, contacts Joel and Suzannah Hemus. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Matakana Kitchens & Joinery Ltd 50 Matakana Valley Road, Matakana, Ph 09 422 7804, contact Jeffrey Smith. NZS4211 Affiliated.

McNaughton Windows and Doors 42 Frost Rd, Mt Roskill, Auckland. Ph 09 620 9059, contact Andrew Riley or Dave Cunningham. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Neo Design Ltd 96 Hillside Road, Glenfield, Auckland. Ph 09 443 4461, contact Wayne Church or Paul Burgess.

Next Level Joinery Ltd 7 Goldfield, Wairau Valley, Auckland. Ph 09 600 2726, contact Brendon Sowerby. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Grandvue Joinery 42 Gregory Road, Waitakere. Ph 09 810 9398, contact Robert Piacun. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Nicks Timber Joinery Ltd 56 Forge Road, Silverdale, Auckland. Ph 09 426 6862, contact Ken Caldwell. NZS4211 Affiliated.

G & J Joinery (1997) Ltd 372 West Coast Rd, Glen Eden, Auckland. Ph 09 818 5585, contact Alan Parry. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Owairoa Joinery Ltd 9 Carpenter Rd, East Tamaki, Auckland. Ph 09 273 3699, contact Nigel Walker. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Heritage Joinery Ltd 1007 Paerata Road, Paerata, Pukekohe. Ph 09 239 2794, contact Michael Oglesby.

Papakura Joinery Ltd 45-51 Tironui Road, Papakura North, Auckland, Ph 09 298 7145, contact Glenn Haszard. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Hewe Architectural Cabinetry 10 Triton Drive, Albany, Auckland 0632, Ph 09 479 6504, contacts Tony Hewetson or Craig Hewetson.

Haydn & Rollett Ltd 1 Warehouse Way, Northcote, Auckland 0627.

Ph 09 443 8315, contact Christopher Hartley.

Inspire Design Limited 5B Volkner Place, Rosedale, Auckland 0632, ph 022 169 9136, contact Aaron Dykstra.

Cutting Edge Cabinetry Ltd 189B Manukau Rd, Pukekohe, 2120. Ph 09 238 5090, contact William Haverland.

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page pag ge 84

Popular Cabinets Ltd (T/A Popular Kitchens), 12 Rylock Plc, Papakura Heights, Auckland, 2140, ph 09 576 6358, contact Sherry Shi. Regal Plus Joinery Ltd 35 Commerce Street, Whangarei, Ph 09 438 2989, contact Jason Hammond.

Rockfield Woodworkers (2003) Ltd 9 Parkwood Place, East Tamaki, Manukau, Ph 09 274 4698, contacts Bryan Hancock and Nick Jones. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Timber Joinery Solutions Ltd 1007 Tauhoa Road, R D 4, Warkworth, Auckland, Ph 09 422 5873, Contact Dave Sattler. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Total Timba Joinery 227 Archers Rd, Glenfield, North Shore. Ph 09 444 7772 contact Rob Pickup. NZS4211 Affiliated.

VSP Interiors Limited 36 Parkway Drive, Mairangi Bay Auckland, Ph 021 183 9151, contact Vishal.

Westpine Joinery Ltd 7 Binstead Rd, New Lynn, Auckland. Ph 09 827 6488, contact Bill or Donny Rawlinson. www.westpine.co.nz. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Wendekreisen Travel Ltd Unit 1, 197 Montgomerie Road, Mangere, Auckland, Ph 03 489 6507, contact Sascha Warnken; Dieter Schuetze Woodland Shopfitting 91 Wairau Rd, Wairau Valley, Auckland. Ph 09 222 3113, contact Angela Sneddon.

Wood Works NZ Ltd 18 Selwyn St, Onehunga, Auckland, 1061.Ph 021 150 5710, contact Serge Landry.

WAIKATO BAY OF PLENTY Adapt Kitchens 52a Hewletts Rd, Mt Maunganui. Ph 021 156 9960, contact Andrew Dagger.

Advance Joinery 2015 Ltd 71 Higgins Road, Hamilton, Ph 07 846 0026, contact Kris Allen.

Artisan Carpentry Ltd 747 No2 Road, R D 2, Te Puke 3182, Ph 027 344 1918, contact Charles de Lapomarede Autocrat Joinery 31 Maru Street, Mount Maunganui, Ph 07 574 8162, contact Steve O’Donohoe. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Bakers Joinery 46 Johnston Street, Waihi, contact Mike Forsyth, mob 020 4092 9555.

Cabinet Queen Waikato 29 Norrie Street, Bader, Hamilton, contact Alisha Campbell mob 021 050 0104.

Classical Doors Ltd Cnr Chadwick Rd & Sherson St, Tauranga, Ph 07 578 4908, contact Scott Wilkins. NZS4211 Affiliated.

National Associate Members Clearline Ltd 65 Hull Road, Mt Maunganui, Ph 07 572 4307, contact Barry Ririnui. NZS4211 Affiliated.

King & Co Joinery Limited 1370 Arthur Porter Drive, Hamilton 3200. Ph 0210 513 786.

CM Joinery Ltd 201 Bowman Rd, RD 9, Hamilton. Contact Craig Mackie, 022 585 6788.

King Country Kitchens 49 King St, Te Kuiti, Ph 07 878 8820, contact Richard Pethybridge. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Concept Kitchens & Bathrooms Ltd 73 Riverlea Rd, Hamilton, Ph 07 856 4705, contact Ross Bones.

Kitchen Fx Ltd 801 Arthur Porter Dr, Burbush, Hamilton. Ph 07 849 2801, contact Mark Davies.

Cromptons Joinery & Laminates PO Box 751, Taupo. Ph 07 378 7968, contact Allan Crompton. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Lee Brothers Cabinets & Joinery 120 View Rd, Rotorua, Ph 07 348 0620, contact Paul Ingram. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Customtone Kitchens 33 Progress Drive, Otorohanga, Ph 07 873 8083, contact George van Boven.

LPS Cabinetry Ltd 55 Miriama St, Taumarunui 3920. Ph 027 539 4702, contact Lewis or Deborah Stewart

Designline Limited 21 Gateway Drive, R D 4, Whakatane, Ph 07 307 0058, contacts Hayden and Rachel Boyd.

MGK Kitchens 2 Lake Rd, Frankton, Hamilton, Ph 07 847 4563, contact Michael Kenyon.

TS Industries Ltd t/a Fernlea Cabinetry & Joinery Unit 3, 593 Te Rapa Road, Hamilton, Ph 027 505 3480, contact Stefan Brown. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Montage Kitchens & Joinery PO Box 5266, Frankton, Hamilton. Ph 07 8479 174, contact Jared Monk. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Fine Woodworking 1536 Main North Road, R D 5, Te Kuiti, Ph 07 878 6194, David Higgins. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Gartshore Group 211 Taurikura Dr, Tauriko, Tauranga. Ph 07 578 4529, contact Bill Gartshore. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Got It Made Kitchens & Cabinetry 360 Rickit Road, Te Awamutu 3800. Ph 07 871 3998, contact Cherie van der Poel or Eric Prole.

Graft Joinery Ltd 32 Raywood Cres, Taupo 3033. Ph 07 378 8340, contact Craig van Velden.

Hamilton Laminates 58 Bryant Road, Te Rapa, Hamilton, Ph 07 849 7745, contact Steve Harker.

HK Kitchens Ltd 144 Taurikura Drive, Tauriko, Tauranga, Ph 07 578 6361, contact Matt Olsen.

Hopkins Joinery 126 Taupo St, Putaruru. Ph 07 883 7951, contact Ron or Hilary. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Hostess Joinery Ltd 17 Sunshine Ave, Te Rapa, Hamilton, Ph 07 847 3099, contact Peter Clarke.

Huntly Joinery 2000 Ltd 22-26 Glasgow St, Huntly, Ph 07 902 5250, contact Simon Curran. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Innovant Cabinetry Ltd 3 Allen St, Morrinsville, Waikato 3300. Ph 07 889 6178, contact, Tracy Maxwell.

Interior Fittings Ltd 23 White St, Rotorua 3010, Ph 07 348 1041, contact Josh Anderson.

Keith Paton Joinery 15 Carters Crescent, Cambridge, ph 07 827 3249, contact Keith Paton.

Morrinsville Industries Ltd 11-13 bank St, Morrinsville. Ph 07 889 5199, contact Murray Foster. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Native Timber Joinery Ltd 92 Bruce Berquist Drive, Te Awamutu, Ph 07 871 6188, contact Stuart Walker. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Pacific Coast Kitchens NZ Ltd 471 Omokoroa Road, R D 2, Tauranga, Ph 07 548 0606, contact Eric Thompson.

SMJ Ltd 49A Matai Street, Taupo. Ph 07 378 8049, contact Stu Martin.

Treetown Kitchens Ltd 57 Albert Street, Cambridge, Ph 07 827 7309, contact Kevin Middlemiss.

Thames Joinery (1995) Ltd 913 Queen Street, Thames, Ph 07 868 6951, contact Bruce Fulton.

The Good Joiner 18 Killegray Close. Hamilton 3210. Contact Ian Megchelse 021 056 1487.

The Kitchen Tailor 58b Herbert Rd, Queenwood, Hamilton.

Contact Adam McNeil 0274 481 879.

Torrington Stairways 24 Matos Segedin Drive, Cambridge, Ph 07 827 6323, contact Brian Courtney.

Wackrow’s Joinery Ltd Gillies St, Box 150, Cambridge. Ph 07 827 5981, contact Carl Riley or Liam Wackrow.

NZS4211 Affiliated.

Waikato Benchtops Ltd Glasgow Street, Huntly, Ph 07 902 5353, contact Simon Curran.

(Master Joiners membership continued overpage)

AGB Stone www.agbstone.co.nz

Joinery IT www.joineryit.co.nz

Advanced Engineering Services www.aesparts.co.nz

Laminex New Zealand www.laminexnewzealand.co.nz

Allegion (New Zealand) Ltd www.allegion.co.nz Architectural Hardware Supplies www.ahs.co.nz ASSA ABLOY NZ Ltd www.assaabloy.com

Austaron Surfaces www.austaronsurfaces.com BBS Timbers www.bbstimbers.co.nz Biesse Group New Zealand www.biessenewzealand.co.nz Blum NZ Ltd www.blum.com

Daiken New Zealand Ltd www.daiken-nz.com Drake & Wrigley Ltd www.drakeandwrigley.co.nz Enko Group Ltd www.enkogroup.com

Mulford Plastics www.mulfordplastics.com.au Nelson Pine Industries Ltd www.nelsonpine.co.nz New Zealand Panels Group www.nzpanels.co.nz

Resene Paints Ltd www.resene.co.nz Rehau Limited www.rehau.com/au-en Rosenfeld Kidson & Co Ltd www.rosenfeldkidson.co.nz Seearco Industrial Abrasives www.seearco.co.nz

Fit NZ www.fit-nz.co.nz

South Pacific Timber (1990) Ltd www.southpacifictimber.co.nz

Glass Half Full www.glasshalffull.co.nz

Steelfort Engineering Ltd www.steelfort.co.nz

Häfele NZ Ltd www.hafele.co.nz Halswell Timber Co Ltd www.halswelltimber.co.nz Henkel NZ Ltd www.henkel.com Harvey Norman Commercial www.harveynorman.co.nz Hettich New Zealand www.hettich.co.nz

Kantek www.kantek.co.nz

Mirotone NZ Ltd www.mirotone.com

Proform www.proformnz.co.nz

Carters www.carters.co.nz

ITI NZ www.iti.net.nz

Marbello International Ltd www.marbello.com

Panelform Ltd www.panelform.co.nz

Burns & Ferrall www.burnsferrall.co.nz

Innergy www.innergy.com

Machines ‘R’ Us Ltd www.machinesrus.co.nz

Miles Nelson MF Co Ltd www.milesnelson.co.nz

Astro Pine NZ Ltd www.astropine.co.nz

Homag www.homag.com

Leitz Tooling NZ Ltd www.leitz.co.nz

Superior Doors Ltd www.superiordoors.co.nz Thermawood www.thermawood.co.nz Tunnicliffe Timber Solutions 2018 www.tunnicliffes.co.nz Unique Hardware Solutions Ltd www.uniquehardware.co.nz Viridian Glass www.viridianglass.co.nz W & R Jack Ltd www.jacks.co.nz Wurth New Zealand Ltd www.wurth.co.nz

KLC Limited www.klc.co.nz

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 85

CENTRAL Al-Wood Joinery (2019) Ltd 7 Arthur Street, Pahiatua, Ph 06 376 8692, contact Gus Shilvock.

UCOL Princess St, Palmerston North. Ph 06 952 7001, contact Lindsay Tamblyn. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Benchtop Surfaces Ltd 590 Tremaine Ave, P. North. Ph 06 356 9384, contact James Hurren.

Unique Timber Joinery 143B Gillespies Line, RD 5, Palmerston North, Ph 06 355 2654, contact James Griffin.

NZS4211 Affiliated.

Bespoke Joinery & KItchens Limited 1 Sutton Plc, Kelvin Grove, Palmerston North.

Ph 06 357 6429, contact Blake Simpson.

WDA Installations 12 Serenity Cres, Kelvin Grove, Palmerston North, 4414. Ph 027 443 1541, contact Craig Buckley.

Careys Joinery (1989) Ltd 7 Bowen St, Marton. Ph 06 327 7949, contact Shaun McDowell.

Counter Concepts 16 Bisley St, Palmerston North, ph 06 355 5971, contact Graeme Andrews.

D-Mac Joinery Ltd 517 Lees Rd, RD5, Feilding, 4775, ph 027 457 0490, contact Drew McBride.

Hansens 55 Bennett Street, Cloverlea, Palmerston North, ph 06 354 4181, contact Kate Jetley.

Heritage Doors Ltd 3 Muhunua West Road, Ohau, Levin, Ph 0274 418 934, contact Tod Aitken. NZS4211 Affiliated.

H.R. Jones & Co. Ltd 60 Aorangi St, Feilding. Ph 06 323 4388, contact Mark Pickford. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Jeff Clayton Joinery 42c Bennett Rd, Palmerston North. Ph 06 357 1736, contact Jeff Clayton.

Mastercraft Kitchens By Healey 127 Keith St, Roslyn, Palmerston North, Ph 06 355 4646, contact Kristine Holmes.

Murray Judd Joinery Limited 25 Station Street, Woodville, Ph 06 376 5043, contact Murray & Tessa Judd. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Rob O’Keeffe Joinery Ltd 368 Heads Rd, Wanganui. Ph 06 344 5040, NZS4211 Affiliated.

Reilly Joinery 18A Parkview Ave, Feilding, Ph 06 323 3743, contact Andrew Reilly. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Sayer Industries Limited 123 Cuba Street, Palmerston North 4410 Ph 06 355 8242.

SB Joinery Ltd 2 Edward Street, Pahiatua 4910, Ph 027 979 0368, contact Scott Beales.

TBB Joinery Limited 51 Grey Street, Feilding 4702, Ph 022 633 2928, contact Bruce Birrell.

Townshends Joinery 2024 Limited 59 Makomako Rd, Palmerston North. Ph 06 354 6699, contact Livvy Kendrick. NZS4211 Affiliated.

The Joiner – Leighton Judd Ltd 50 Johnston Street, Foxton, Manawatu, Ph 06 363 5119, contact Leighton Judd Tweakit Joinery Solutions 200 Tutaki Road, Kelvin Grove, Palmerston North. Ph 06 357 2897, contact Vaughn Tongs.

TARANAKI Broadway Joinery 381 Broadway, Stratford, Ph 06 765 6829, contact Graham Podjursky.

Elite Kitchens 2004 Ltd 23 Oropuriri Road, New Plymouth 4312, Ph 06 759 8221, contact Sean Rice.

Hawera Kitchens and Furniture Ltd 24 Glover Road, Hawera 4610, Ph 06 278 7044, contacts Klinton Hunt / Lance Hunt.

In 2 Kitchens Limited 78 Portia Street, Stratford, Ph 06 765 4058, contacts Brent and Jo Russ. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Jones & Sandford Joinery Ltd 285 St Aubyn Street, New Plymouth, Ph 06 759 9251, contact Roger Jones.

KP Joinery Ltd 2 Dowding Place, Waitara. Ph 06 754 4726, contact Ken Parsons.

MacLeod Joinery 42 Beach St, New Plymouth. Ph 06 757 8172, Kieran MacLeod. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Mode Kitchens 77B Hurlstone Drive, Waiwhakaiho, New Plymouth 4312, ph 027 521 8527, contact Fraser Hall.

New Plymouth Joinery Ltd 10 Cody Place, New Plymouth. Ph 06 758 8580, contact Roger Paul or John Ancell.

NZS4211 Affiliated.

Newton Gordge Joinery 2016 Ltd 67 Breakwater Rd, New Plymouth. Ph 06 751 5065, contact Scott Dudley. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Brittin Builders Ltd T/A Parkhill Joinery 475 St Georges Road South, Havelock North, Ph 06 877 7623, contact Tom Robertson.

NZS4211 Affiliated.

Burley Kitchens & Cabinetry Ltd 14 Lipton Pl, Onekawa, Napier. Ph 06 843 5588, contact Craig Burley.

Cherrywood Joinery Ltd 11 PotaeAve, Lytton West, Gisborne. Ph 06 868 0971, contact Richard Childs.

Christie Builders & Joiners 11 Husheer Place, Onekawa, Napier, Ph 06 843 6676, contact Peter Christie. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Classic Kitchens Napier Ltd 8 Lipton Place, Onekawa, Napier. Ph 06 843 6500, contact Stuart Bryson.

D Stevens Ltd 336 Childers Road, Gisborne, Ph 06 867 5700, contact Peter Claydon. NZS4211 Affiliated.

European Designer Kitchens 80 Taradale Rd, Napier. Ph 06 843 7319, contact Murray Nattrass.

Gallery Kitchens Ltd 4 Cadbury Rd, Napier. Email - admin@ gallerykitchens.co.nz, contact Sharon James.

Gemco Trades Ltd 13 Martin Pl, Havelock North. Ph 06 873 8756, contact Craig Russell. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Green Joinery Ltd 30 Morris St, Napier, 4110. Ph 027 750 8603, contact Jae Green.

Kakapo Joinery 2/19 Mersey Street, Pandora, Napier, Ph 021 0258 9617, contact Robin Holthusen Molloy Joinery Ltd 14-16 Husheer Pl, Onekawa, Napier. Ph 06 843 5037, contact Simon Molloy. NZS4211 Affiliated.

MCL Joinery Ltd 1104 Kaipo Rd, Hastings, Ph 06 876 0252, contact John Bower. NZS4211 Affiliated.

McIndoe Kitchens 8 Carnegie Rd, Onekawa, Napier 4110. Ph 06 843 3880, contact Duane Todd.

Natural Edge Joinery 174 Brookvale Road, Havelock North 4130. Ph 027 232 8838, contact James Coutts.

Pace Modular 2021 Ltd 113 De Havilland Drive, Bell Block, New Plymouth. Ph 06 755 4012, contact Lew Dickie or Bryan Frank.

Parkhill Joinery (Brittan Builders Ltd) 457 St Georges Rd Sth, Havelock North. Ph 06 877 7623, contact Tom Robertson.

Rhys Powell Joinery 7A Euclid Street, New Plymouth. Ph 06 753 3822, contact Rhys Powell. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Rabbitte Joinery Limited 807 Warren St, Hastings. Ph 06 870 8911, contacts Greg & Trudi Rabbitte. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Summerfield Joinery 4 Innes Street, Gisborne, Ph 06 868 4236, contact Dale Summerfield. NZS4211 Affiliated

HAWKES BAY POVERTY BAY

Sunshine Joinery Ltd 44 Pandora Road, Ahuriri, Napier, Ph 06 844 6105, contact Rick Martin

Awapuni Joinery Ltd 22 Parkinson Street, Gisborne, Ph 06 867 3301 contact Peter Webster.

Waipukurau Joinery Limited 2322 Takapau Road, Waipukurau. Ph 06 858 9961, contact Greg O’Kane.

Alexander Joinery Ltd 72 Thames St, Pandora, Napier 4110. Ph 06 843 2036, contact Jason Collins.

JOINERS NERS Magazine Dec December cem embe emb er 2025 page 86

WELLINGTON Ace Kitchens & Laminates Ltd 50 Montgomery Crescent, Clouston Park, Upper Hutt 5018, Ph 04 526 9795, contact Ivan Johnson Carroll’s Joinery Limited 148 Lincoln Road, Masterton. Ph 06 377 3160, contact Richard Carroll.

Commercial Joinery Wellington Ltd 232 Rongotai Road, Kilbirnie, Wellington. Ph 04 387 2050, contact Grant Smith Craftbuilt 77 Hokio Beach Rd, Levin, 5510. Contact Simon Raikes David Barker Custom Cabinets 52 Cooper St, Karori, Wellington, Ph 027 248 8140, contact David Barker. NZS 4211 Affiliated.

David Ladd Joinery Ltd 1a Rewa Tce, Tawa. Ph 04 237 9175.

Ferndale Furniture 67 Seaview Rd, Lower Hutt, Ph 04 568 7879, contact Grant MacDonald.

Goldmark Group Ltd 9-11 Jean Batten St, Kilbirnie, Wellington. Ph 04 387 8964, contact David Goldsack.

Gourmet Wood Inc. Ltd 64 Riverbank Rd, Otaki, Kapiti Coast. Ph 027 338 4790 Interbuild Commercial Interiors Ltd 115 George St, Stokes Valley, Lower Hutt 5019, Ph 04 939 8760, contact Neil Shackleton.

Jacobson Joinery Services 101 Brooklyn Rd, Carterton, Wairarapa 5713.

Ph 06 379 8066, contact Vic Jacobson.

Joinery Productions Ltd 457 Jackson Street, Petone, Ph 04 569 8808, contact Wayne Wilmshurst. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Kapiti Kitchens Ltd 345 Kapiti Rd, Paraparaumu Beach, Kapiti. Ph 04 902 5551, contact Kristine Holmes.

L & P Crown Joinery (2002) Ltd 37 Burden Avenue Wainuiomata. Ph 04 564 8895, contact Jeremy Patmore. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Living Timber European Joinery & Furniture Ltd 64 Fisk Street, Naenae, Lower Hutt, Ph 04 567 2577, contact Horst Mundt. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Maycroft Construction Ltd 16 Gregory Street, Lower Hutt, Ph 04 567 0014, contact Chris Fayen Maymorn Joiners Ltd 247 Parkes Line Rd, Upper Hutt, Ph 04 526 6657, contact Anthony Neustroski. NZS4211 Affiliated.

M B Brown Ltd 67 Ngaumutawa Rd, Masterton, Wairarapa. Ph 027 538 8154, contact Jamie Searle.

My Joiner Ltd 64 Ruskin Rd, Newlands, Wellington 6037. Ph 021 487 500, contact Ulrich Kohler.

NZ Cabinetmaker Ltd 39 Park St, Kingsley Heights, Upper Hutt, 5019, Ph 021 923 231, contact Benn Hamilton.

NELSON MARLBOROUGH

Orchard Joinery Ltd 14-18 Te Roto Drive, Paraparaumu, Ph 04 298 3380, contact Geoff Orchard. NZS4211 Affiliated.

A K Joinery Ltd Units 3-5, 28 Dublin Street, Picton, Ph 03 573 6860, contact Andrew Kenny.

Paraparaumu Doors & Joinery 14 Manchester St, Paraparaumu, Ph 04 297 2233, contact Tony Thomson. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Pete’s Joinery & Building Ltd 205 Main St, Greytown. Ph 06 304 9137, contact Peter Algie, Rhys Severn or Paul Coventry. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Prestige Joinery Limited 140 Perry Street, Masterton, Ph 06 377 1331, contact Gregory Morgan. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Redwood Kitchens 40a Main Rd, Tawa, Wellington. Ph 027 8855 441, contact Keith Hollow.

Renalls Joinery Limited 147 -155 High St Sth, Carterton. Ph 06 379 8008, contact Trevor Kenavan. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Bays Joinery Ltd 6 Tokomaru Place, Wakatu Industrial Estate, Stoke, Nelson, Ph 03 544 0087, contact George Molnar. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Brightwater Cabinetmaker & Joinery Ltd 8c Merton Place, Annesbrook, Nelson 7011, Ph 03 548 6400, contact James Palmer.

Building Connexion Ltd ITM Joinery, 16-18 King Edward St, Motueka, Ph 03 528 7256, contact Paul Rusbatch.

NZS4211 Affiliated.

Cantwell Joinery and Window Centre 15 Bristol Street, R D 4, Riverlands, Blenheim, Ph 03 578 3375, contact Ian Cantwell.

Complete Kitchens Ltd 415 Main Road, Spring Grove, Wakefield, Ph 03 539 0055, contact Hamish Drummond.

Samuel Martin Ltd 6 Woodman Drive, Tawa, Wellington. Contact Sam Lewis 022 024 4712

Cooper Webley (2006) Ltd 64 Beatty Street, Tahunanui, Nelson, Ph 03 547 0010, contacts Noel Tait / Michelle Hill.

Stylish Interiors Ltd 29D Dragon St, Granada North, Wellington. Ph 04 473 1944, contact Mathew Gubb. NZS4211 Affiliated.

James Neal Joinery 35 Fell Street, Grovetown, Marlborough, Ph 03 577 7872, contact James Neal.

The English Craftsman 4 Mountbatten Grove, Upper Hutt 5018, contact Paul Winstanley 021 103 6683.

Matai Joinery Nelson Ltd 26 Quarantine Road, Stoke, Nelson 7011, Ph 03 547 7990, contact Greg Couper. NZS4211 Affiliated.

The French Door Factory 14A Kingsford Smith Street, Rongotai, Wellington. Ph 04 387 7822, contact Alan Chambers

Motueka Joinery Co 2001 Ltd 20 Old Wharf Road, Motueka, Ph 03 528 9012, contacts Phil or Barb Sharkie.

The Joinery King Limited 73 Hutt Road, Thorndon, Wellington, Ph 04 473 6367, contact Tony King. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Upspec Joinery 72 Sydney St, Petone, Lower Hutt 5012. Ph 021 0279 2067, contact Rueben Hanns-Voyle.

Wainui Joinery (1977) Ltd 34 Burden Ave, Wainuiomata Lower Hutt. Ph 04 564 7011, contact Nikki Wynne. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Well Hung Joinery 21 Lower Tyers Road, Ngauranga, Wellington, Ph 04 494 7230, contact Stephen Fairbrass.

NZS4211 Affiliated.

Wellington Joinery and Kitchens Ltd 8a Burgess Road, Johnsonville, Wellington.

Ph 04 478 7652, contact Phil Schwartfeger.

NZS4211 Affiliated.

Nazareth Joinery 2017 Ltd 1 Warwick Street, Mayfield, Blenheim, 7201.

Ph 03 578 8752, contact Leigh Jones.

Orange Building Group Joinery Ltd 16 Nayland Road, Stoke, Nelson. Ph 03 547 9784, contact John Andrew.

Re Space Limited 2 Kidson Place, Stoke, Nelson 7011, Ph 03 547 1636, contact Hamish Northcott.

Prestige Furniture & Joinery Ltd 38 Beach Road, Richmond, Nelson, Ph 03 544 1789, contact Richard Dohmen.

Quaystone Holdings Ltd 42 Batchelor Ford Rd, Motueka 7120. Ph 03 528 6140, contact Matt Hinton.

CANTERBURY Adrian Harris Woodcraft Unit J, 3 Timothy Place, Wigram, Christchurch 8042, Ph 03 348 6996, contact Adrian Harris.

NZS4211 Affiliated.

Advanced Joinery Ltd 27 Watts Road, Sockburn, Christchurch, Ph 03 348 7700, contact Greg Ayers. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Alsop Joinery Ltd 18 Alloy Street, Sockburn, Christchurch, Ph 03 348 4666, contact Paul Baker. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Anderson Joinery Ltd 247 Alford Forest Rd, Ashburton. Ph 03 308 2988, email: anderson.joinery@xtra.co.nz, contact Dougal Anderson.

Architectural Joinery Ltd 82 Buchan Street, Sydenham, Christchurch.

Ph 03 377 6760, contact Andrew Clark Ashburton Joinery Limited 8 John Street, Ashburton, Ph 03 308 5059, contact James Donaldson. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Bates Joinery (2008) Ltd 101 Shortland Street, Christchurch 8061, Ph 03 388 8111, contact Mark Allworthy. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Bower Joinery 12a Bower Ave, Christchurch. Ph 03 388 2924, contact John Mudgway.

Brent Johnson Joinery Ltd 306 Flaxton Road, Rangiora, North Canterbury. Ph 03 313 6256, contact Brent Johnson. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Busch Joinery Limited 1737 Boundary Road, R D 3, Ashburton, Ph 027 563 4537, contact Nathan Busch Creative Joinery Ltd Unit 1/ 7 Homersham Pl., Burnside. Ph 03 358 4900, contact Wayne Brown.

Don’s Joinery Ltd 43 Sandown Cres, Christchurch. Ph 03 382 0828, contact Don McClintock.

Douglas Furniture Ltd 80 Hay Rd, Wigram, Christchurch, 8240. Ph 03 377 3597, contact: Howard Nossiter.

Dynamic Joinery & Kitchens Ltd 6b Maces Road, Bromley, Christchurch, Ph 022 087 9918, contact Ben Vyas.

East Joinery Ltd Unit 3, 56 Wickham St, Bromley Christchurch.

Ph 021 138 3119.

Ruby Bay Joinery Ltd 8 Warren Plc, Mapua, Nelson. ph 03 540 2123 contact Wayne Roberts. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Elite Joinery Ltd Unit 1, 97A Sawyers Arms Road, Papanui, Christchurch, Ph 03 354 8311, contact Hayden & Sarah Illingworth.

The Sellers Room 9 Echodale Place, Stoke, Nelson, Ph 03 547 7144, contact Margarette Sellers

Evolution Interiors Limited 19 Stanmore Road, Phillipstown, Christchurch, Ph 03 381 1633, contact Karl Kitchingham.

Viking Furniture & Joinery Ltd 88 Vanguard Street, Nelson, ph 03 548 0493, contact Barry Thomas. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Finesse Joinery 423 Main North Road, Christchurch. Ph 03 352 3457, contact David Street.

Waimea West Joinery Ltd 111 Beach Road, Richmond, Nelson, Ph 03 544 0177, contacts Kathy & Alan Gibbs.

NZS4211 Affiliated.

Hagley Kitchens 6 Nazareth Ave, Addington, Christchurch. Ph 03 961 0703, contact Nathan Moore.

Haspert Joinery 95B Main South Rd, Sockburn, Christchurch.

Ph 021 031 2666, contact Allan Zhu. Homeview Building Products Ltd 772 Halswell Junction Rd, Hornby, Christchurch. Ph 03 343 9949, contact Howard Stone. NZS4211 Affiliated.

House of Joinery 168 Voss Rd, Ladbrooks RD2, Canterbury 7672, Ph 021 955 959, contact Johnny Alsop.

Joinery by Design 15 King Edward Tce, Woolston, Christchurch.

Ph 03 384 8461, contact Evan McLachlan & David Phillips. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Joinery Concepts 2006 Ltd 25 Osbourne Street, Phillipstown, Christchurch, Ph 03 381 1066, contact Peter Robertson.

Joinery Scene Ltd 43 Sonter Rd, Wigram, Christchurch. Contact Richard Hill 021 623 446.

Kitchen Maker Christchurch Ltd 39 Ballarat Way, Wigram, Christchurch, 8025.

Ph 021 988 868, contact David Li. LX Joinery 39A Buchanans Road, Sockburn 8042, Christchurch, Ph 03 342 9605, contact Steve Mangan. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Mackay Kitchens Ltd 345 Brougham Street, Sydenham, Christchurch 8023, Ph 03 365 3988, contact Chris Moore.

MCM Furniture 102 Pacific Drive, RD 3, Leeston, 7683, contact Robert Kulesza mob 027 334 4077.

Misco Joinery 62 Williams St, Kaiapoi, Canterbury 7630, Ph 03 383 4384, contact Penny Abell.

Modern Age Kitchens & Joinery Ltd 127 Montreal St, Sydenham, Christchurch 8023. Ph 03 365 1675 contact Grant Woodham.

Modulink Screen Partitions 2012 Ltd 35 Lunns Rd, Middleton, Christchurch, Ph 03 338 6464, contact Sam Bain.

Murray Hewitt Joinery Ltd 25A Lunns Rd, Christchurch, Ph 03 343 0360, contact Murray Hewitt. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Murray Milne Ltd 231 Cameron St, Netherby, Ashburton. Ph 03 308 8018, contact Murray Milne.

MWF Manufacturing Ltd Unit 3, 11 March Plc, Belfast, Christchurch.

Ph 03 365 6218, contact Gary Altenburg.

NZS4211 Affiliated.

Nordzco Joinery 652 Halswell Junction Rd, Hornby, Christchurch. Ph 03 348 4890, contact Wayne Melrose.

NZ Doors (2004) Ltd 41 Anchorage Road, Hornby, Christchurch, Ph 03 344 2516, contacts Ron and Lisa Zwarst.

NZS4211 Affiliated.

(Master Joiners membership continued overpage)

JOINERS Magazine D December 2025 page 87

Paul Renwick Joinery Ltd PO Box 11 047, Sockburn, Christchurch, 8443.

Ph 03 349 7049, contact Paul Renwick.

Barrett Joinery Ltd 204 Hilton Highway, PO Box 2115 Timaru. Ph 03 688 4738, contact Mark Mitchell. NZS4211 Affiliated.

R A Hale Ltd 126 Hazeldean Rd, Addington, Christchurch.

Ph 03 3666 909, contact Donald Bisphan.

NZS4211 Affiliated.

Duncan Joinery Limited 20 King Street, Temuka, South Canterbury, Ph 03 615 7327, contact Craig Duncan.

Ruben’s Joinery Limited 402 Bethels Road, 4 R D, Christchurch, Ph 03 329 5458, contact Ruben Patchett. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Firman Joinery Ltd 10 Endeavour Cres, Nth Oamaru Business Park, Oamaru. Ph 03 434 1561, contact Gary Firman. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Ryan’s Kitchens and Joinery 9 Kilronan Plc, Wigram, Christchurch 8041, Ph 03 348 7921, contact Ryan Butler.

Geraldine Timber Products 27 High Street, Geraldine, Ph 03 693 9598, contact Paul Autridge. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Sockburn Joinery 33 West Coast Rd, Yaldhurst, Christchurch. Ph 03 342 6044, contact Tony Lemmens.

J E Dennison Ltd 5 Redruth St, Timaru. Ph 03 688 0029, contact Gary Dennison. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Silver Fern KItchens 12 Princess St, Addington Christchurch. Ph 021 288 8373, contact Gary Lin.

JMAC Joinery Ltd 7 Laughton Street, Washdyke, Timaru, Ph 03 688 2725, contact Craig Mason. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Sydenham Joinery Ltd 6 Dalziel Pl, Woolston, Christchurch, Ph 03 379 6840, contact Grant Weston. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Joinery Zone 2012 Ltd 27 Redruth St, Timaru. Ph 03 688 8223, contact Warren Atwill. NZS4211 Affiliated.

The Joiner Shop 2024 Ltd 19 Beach Road, Kaikoura 7300, Ph 03 319 5562, contact Ash or Tania Hastelow.

Lunds Joinery Ltd 33a Grants Rd, PO Box 128, Timaru. Ph 03 688 9149, contact Mark Albert. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Timber Doors & Windows 2007 Ltd 194 Wordsworth Street, Sydenham, Christchurch 8023, Ph 03 379 1725, contact Martyn Neville. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Millennium Joinery Ltd 2 Regina Lane, Oamaru. Ph 03 437 0227, contact Michael Sandri. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Timber Tru Ltd 411 Tuan St, Linwood, Christchurch, Ph 03 389 2986, contact Tony van der Plas. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Trends Kitchens Ltd 34A Parkhouse Road, Sockburn, Christchurch, Ph 03 343 5242, contact James McKeown Woodshack Kitchens 113 Izone Drive, Rolleston, Canterbury 7675, Ph: 03 347 9790, contact Mark Davis.

WAITAKI Alpine Joinery 480 Fairview Road, No 2 RD, Timaru, ph 03 688 5748, contact Paul Butchers.

Paterson Joinery 307 Rosewill Valley Road, Timaru. Contact Matthew Valentine, info@patersonjoinery.co.nz, ph 027 432 1422.

Rycole Joinery 44 Homestead Road, 1 DRD, Oamaru, Ph 03 434 5012, contacts Darryl and Adrienne Whitburn NZS4211 Affiliated.

OTAGO SOUTHLAND

Coronet Woodware (2017) Ltd 99 Glenda Drive, Queenstown, Ph 03 442 3700, contact Colin Strang. NZS4211 Affiliated.

O’Brien Group 2012 8 Gow Street, Mosgiel, Ph 03 489 3849, contact Peter O’Brien.

Elite Joinery Solutions 104 Middle Street, Pukerau, ph 03 208 5819, contact Regan Hughes.

PDL Kitchens 113B North Rd, Invercargill, Southland 9810, Ph 027 424 5578, contact Paul Lindsay.

Fiordland Joinery 10 Caswell Rd, Te Anau, Southland 9600, Ph 03 249 4339, contact Simon Irwin.

Queenstown Joinery 53 Industrial Place, Queenstown, Ph 03 442 7555, contact Kevin Harradine. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Form Joinery 132 Ballantyne Rd, Wanaka, Otago 9305. Ph 021 483 676, contact Nick Elliott.

G L Stevenson Builders Ltd 53 Stone St, Dunedin 9010, Ph 027 7146 523, contact Michael Stevenson Howley Joinery Ltd 224 Mersey Street, Invercargill, Ph 03 214 1055, contact Glen Howley. NZS4211 Affiliated.

JP Quality Kitchens Limited 66 Vogel Street, Dunedin, Ph 021 474 300, contact John Peddie.

Joinery Specialists 1997 Ltd PO Box 502 Dunedin, Ph 03 488 2371, contact Graeme Emmerson.

Leading Edge Joinery Specialists Ltd 13 Surrey Street, Gore, Ph 027 6774 729, contact Donald McGuigan. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Leith Joinery 2 Roberts St, Dunedin. Ph 03 477 0115, contact Peter Leith. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Masterwood Joinery 2008 28 McNulty Road, Cromwell, Ph 03 445 0313, contact Dave Wilson. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Mearns and Leckie 2024 Limited 7 Gow St, Mosgiel 9024. Contact Michael Lyon 027 489 20207. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Mojo Modern Joinery Ltd 96 Gair Ave, Cromwell, Ph 03 445 0128, contact Craig Harrison.

Abernethy Joinery 18 Melbourne Street, Dunedin, Ph 03 456 1654, contact Ian Abernethy. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Nasko Factory Ltd 22A Margaret Place, Frankton Industrial, Queenstown, Ph 03 442 3206, contacts Stephen Walak, Amanda Trainor. NZS4211 Affiliated.

B & M Joinery Ltd 4 Ree Crescent, Cromwell, Ph 03 265 2077, contact Brendon Munro. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Nigel Molloy Joinery Limited 300 Great North Road, Winton, Ph 03 236 0399, contact Nigel Molloy. NZS4211 Affiliated.

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 88

Riversdale Joinery Ltd 105 Liverpool Street, Riversdale, Southland 9744, Ph 03 202 5527, Barry O’Connor.

NZS4211 Affiliated.

Ron Kirk Joinery Ltd 403 Kaikorai Valley Road, Dunedin, Ph 03 453 5718, contact Hayden Kirk. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Steadfast Joinery Limited 41 Ward St, CBD, Dunedin 9016, Ph 03 470 1990, contact Leroy Cunningham.

Stevenson & Williams Ltd Joinery 64 Prince Albert Rd, St Kilda, Dunedin. Ph 03 455 4034, contact Andrew Duncan. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Stewart Construction Ltd PO Box 2125, St Kilda. Ph 03 455 2057, contact Barry Taylor. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Urban Woodwork LTD 10A Gow St, Mosgiel, Dunedin 9024. Ph 027 284 7030, contact Ben King.

Wanaka Joinery & Glass Ltd 52 Ballantyne Road, Wanaka, Ph 03 443 7890, contact Kent McIntyre. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Wedgerwood Joinery Ltd 11 Ngapara St, Alexandra. Ph 03 448 8832, contact Russell Mair. NZS4211 Affiliated.

Wood Solutions 5 Orari St, Sth Dunedin, Dunedin. Ph 03 479 2323, contact Daniel Sampson. NZS4211 Affiliated.



BCITO backs women in construction At 21, Haley Watts was owner of her own Tauranga interior plastering business, learning to quote, schedule and manage cashflow while running jobs on site.

The bright-pink van is deliberate branding; she’s a woman, and also a proud tradie. Early on, some people assumed she was “the office lady”. Today, the same clients book her again and again, and refer friends.

Both Haley Watts and Lucy Brailsford illustrate the success BCITO has achieved in attracting more women into trades roles and apprenticeships.

Six per cent of BCITO apprentices starting out are now women, up from less than one per cent five years ago. Numbers of young women participating in the BCITO Gateway programme for school students have doubled since 2022, while women doing apprenticeships have nearly quadrupled from 52 to 205.

However, there’s still a long way to go. Just three per cent of tradies across the whole construction sector in New Zealand are women.

By 2040, the sector goal is to increase women in construction trades roles to 30 per cent.

Meanwhile, a new New Zealand Chinese Building Industry Association report highlights retention is a significant issue for the whole industry. More than a third of workers have been in their roles less than a year, and just 6 per cent remain more than five years.

the key to inclusion for me is about the culture employers provide for the team.

Lucy Brailsford

“The report also highlights what we’ve been saying for a long time – that when demand for new construction comes back it is essential we have enough qualified tradies to meet that demand. Boosting recruitment and improving retention through targeted support for all kinds of workers are equally important,” says Greg Durkin, Director of BCITO. All of this is behind BCITO’s new Actions Speak Louder initiative, to help attract more women into the trades and ensure they’re

Lucy Brailsford, 25, took a different route. Teacher training, then labouring, opened the door to a carpentry qualification. Her goals are classic chippy: get qualified, buy and renovate her first home, then one day design and build the family place. In 2025 she placed second in the regional New Zealand Certified Builders apprentice of the year.

well supported to stay. Under the initiative, BCITO has partnered with organisations such as Dignity, Hirepool, NZ Safety Blackwoods, Queens Workwear, Cleanline Tasman and TrainHer to provide free period products, sanitary bins, and injury-prevention programmes along with discounted portaloos and women’s workwear.

That kind of support is often vital.

Haley was lucky to have an early introduction to the trades through her school’s Gateway programme, along with guidance that gave her confidence to get started. “Having a mentor, I can ring any time has been huge, and learning safer techniques early on meant I could do the same work as everyone else without wrecking my body. Being in a room full of women doing big things made it feel possible,” she says.

Having the National Association of Women in Construction also recognise her as a 2025 Rising Star has helped boost that confidence further.

Lucy is thrilled to see women’s representation in the industry growing, with more avenues for girls to learn a trade that weren’t available when she was going through high school. “I believe they have a lot more opportunities now with Gateway programmes, for example. However, the key to inclusion for me is about the culture employers provide for the team. Every apprentice will have a different version of what inclusivity looks like, but finding the right employer is what makes the difference. No day really looks the same as a builder and that’s why I love it.”

BCITO is keen to see more women enjoy rewarding careers in the trades. For more info on Lucy and Haley’s story and the support available visit- https://bcito.org.nz/ women/building-women/.

To offer your services as part of the Actions Speak Louder programme, visit https://bcito.org.nz/women/ actions-speak-louder/

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 89

Finish the year strong (and actually enjoy summer with whānau) Every year in NZ, plenty of joinery and cabinet shops hit the same loop: big January plans, February reality, March full-noise on the tools. Then the sprint to Christmas. By the time you finally get to the beach, your head’s still at work and January feels like starting from zero again.

Quick NZ year - end checklist

The fix isn’t “work harder”; it’s changing the pattern with a few practical moves now. Here’s a practical four steps guide to follow to finish well and start the new year fresher.

1. Get real about what’s coming Something will wobble! A late delivery, a supplier on skeleton crew, or a site not ready. If your plan has no slack, one hiccup nukes the week. Build a buffer now: pick one paid job you can move into late January/February and have that honest kōrero with the client today. Most people appreciate straight-up communication, and it gives you a pressure release if (when) things shift. If everything runs sweet, you finish early; if not, you’ve got breathing space.

Bonus: lock last install/dispatch dates around public holidays (25– 26 Dec, 1–2 Jan). Publish them everywhere — email footer, phone message, socials, and Jobman autoresponders.

2. Find problems before they find you Head down, “just push through” is when little issues turn into December disasters. Do a line-byline check of every job between now and Christmas — materials, hardware, timelines etc, and get a second set of eyes on the risky ones. Expect to find stuff; the earlier you catch it, the easier (and cheaper) the fix. This is how you avoid last-minute firefighting and protect the schedule when pressure peaks.

Bonus: confirm local courier/ linehaul cut-offs and supplier shutdown dates now; pre-kit January jobs so the first week back isn’t chaos.

●

Last install/dispatch dates confirmed (25–26 Dec, 1–2 Jan considered)

●

Job schedule frozen; risky jobs reviewed; January prekits staged

●

Supplier/freight cut-offs verified; final orders placed

●

Thursday pre-dispatch audits live; one honest client datemove done

●

Autoresponders/voicemail updated with shutdown & emergency rules

●

Team toolbox talk on summer risks; leave calendars finalised

●

Plan for ACC/WorkSafealigned checks; machines cleaned & calibrated

●

Intentional downtime scheduled (no emails)

Bruce Poling from the Joinery Coach.

3. Be willing to change the play Don’t treat Q4 like a grand final where the game plan never changes. Good teams pause, review, and adjust mid-match and so should your workshop.

Build short weekly “timeouts”: what’s working, what’s not, who’s overloaded, what dates are fantasy? If the plan’s failing, adjust early and move deadlines, shuffle resources, or call in support. Grinding harder on the wrong plan just burns people and morale.

Bonus: Run a 10-minute Monday huddle at the board; Thursday predispatch audit for the following week to catch site/measure snags.

4. Prioritise real recovery Recovery isn’t laziness; it’s part of performance. Without genuine rest, quality drops, mistakes climb, and burnout creeps in.

Plan intentional downtime: when you’re with family, be there,

JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 90

no sneaky inbox checks. Even short, fully disconnected breaks beat long, distracted ones. You’ll think clearer and lead better when it counts.

About the Joinery Coach

Bonus: set a simple on-call rule for true install emergencies only, and make it voluntary/paid.

Everyone else: phones down, sunscreen on.

TJC helps joinery and cabinetmaking businesses g r o w s t r o n g e r, m o r e profitable, and more sustainable with hands-on coaching, practical training, and done-with-you systems.

Breaking the cycle The shops that finish strong don’t just work the hardest; they manage energy, bake in buffers, and prepare for reality instead of hoping for perfection. This December you’ve got a choice: keep sprint-crash-repeat, or build a smarter finish — balance performance with prep, and effort with recovery — so January feels like carrying momentum, not climbing out of a hole.

Based in Australia and supporting clients globally (including NZ), the team understands the realities of workflow, sales, pricing, marketing, leadership and profitability in our trade.

We are a proud partner of Master Joinery NZ and are active every week with NZ clients so we know the ups and downs of the NZ market.



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JOINERS Magazine December 2025 page 91

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