Southern show ‘most successful event to date’
SouthMach 2025 was a “resounding success”, marking what show organiser XPO Exhibitions described as the “most impactful event since XPO acquired the brand in 2015”.
“This year’s exhibition saw a record number of exhibitors and a 22% increase in visitor attendance, highlighting the burgeoning strength of New Zealand’s manufacturing, engineering and technology sectors,” says Jack Heslin, sales and event manager for SouthMach.
“We extend our sincere gratitude to all exhibitors and visitors whose participation was instrumental in making SouthMach such a dynamic and valuable experience. This year’s success would not have been possible without the invaluable support of SouthMach’s esteemed partners and programme activators.”
Event highlights included Dawn Aerospace’s packed seminar, huge interest in the HamiltonJet HT1000, the launch of IRHACE’s HVAC&R South, and the inaugural Minister for Manufacturing Awards 2025, celebrating manufacturing excellence from apprentices to business leaders.
“The success of SouthMach 2025 is more than just numbers – it’s a clear signal that New Zealand’s manufacturing, engineering and technology sectors are gaining traction. A strong turnout from industry professionals, innovators and future talent reflects a sector that’s not only growing but also evolving,” he says.
“I’m incredibly grateful to our partners, exhibitors and every single visitor who made SouthMach 2025 such a vibrant and valuable event. Your support drives the future of manufacturing in Aotearoa.”
Helsin also says the atmosphere of the event equalled the show’s support, “Seeing the Wolfbrook arena buzzing with energy, innovation and collaboration was a proud moment for our entire team. We loved seeing products and ideas that truly showcase the work New Zealanders are doing across the industry.
“The feedback from exhibitors and visitors has been overwhelmingly positive. It’s clear that SouthMach is more than just a trade event – it’s a vital part of the manufacturing and engineering ecosystem. What stood out to me most was the sense of optimism and momentum across the event floor. The conversations, the innovations, the talent all point to a very bright future for our industry.”
Exhibitors also shared enthusiasm for SouthMach. One exhibitor remarked, “This has been a fantastic experience and one that I think all manufacturers should be part of – the exposure has stood out for us.” Another highlighted the value of connection, “In today’s world, lots of businesses are isolated. It’s very important for them to come along to the likes of SouthMach, because they’re living within their own ecosystem of staff, suppliers, customers. So, getting out to a trade event like this where there’s a lot of other manufacturers and people from the industry helps bring in new ideas, helps them step away and look at their business from a distance and can provide fresh thoughts and ideas for the business.” And a third exhibitor said, “Well, I’ve had one day of SouthMach, I have got a nice long list of leads. But the other really cool surprise was actually meeting and talking with the other fellow exhibitors within the industry.”
Heslin says that future of manufacturing in New Zealand is exceptionally bright and SouthMach 2025 has “undeniably demonstrated that the industry is riding a powerful wave of innovation, collaboration and growth”.
SouthMach will return to Christchurch in 2027, with Auckland’s sister event EMEX confirmed for May 26-28, 2026.