New Zealand’s defence sector is entering a period of potential transformation. With the Government’s renewed focus on national resilience, regional security, and defence export capability, local industries have an opportunity to play a much greater role in supporting both domestic and international defence initiatives. This article provides an overview of New Zealand companies that could contribute to this evolving landscape.

As part of the Defence Capability Plan, the Minister of Defence, Judith Collins, recently released further details on the Government’s commitment to building a stronger and more resilient defence industry in New Zealand, including opportunities for export growth.

In response, I’ve compiled an overview of some New Zealand companies that could benefit from this initiative by the Government and the Ministry of Defence. This is not intended as an in-depth analysis, but rather a broad overview highlighting organisations that could play a role in supporting and expanding the country’s defence capabilities.

It’s worth noting that, regardless of the industry, most companies remain dependent on imported components or raw materials — an example of this while New Zealand has strong electronics expertise, most basic components — such as semiconductors, resistors, and microchips—are imported, often sourced from Taiwan and other international suppliers, highlighting the country’s reliance on global supply chains.

AeroSpace

• RocketLab: https://www.rocketlabcorp.com
• Dawn Aerospace: https://www.dawnaerospace.com
• NZAero (Pacific Aerospace): https://www.nzaero.com
• Kea Aerospace: https://www.keaaerospace.com
• Advanced Aerospace Ltd: https://www.advaero.com
• Syos Aerospace: https://syos-aerospace.com
• Vickers Aircraft Company Ltd: https://www.vickersaircraft.com

New Zealand’s aerospace industry continues to grow rapidly, with several companies innovating in aerial drone technology, such as Syos Aerospace, while others, like NZAero, specialise in aircraft design and assembly — producing models such as the 750XL, SuperPac 750XL-II (XSTOL), and E-350 Expedition.

With appropriate government support and investment, these companies could scale their operations, compete internationally, and pursue defence contracts worldwide.

Syos Aerospace, for instance, already supplies drones to the UK Defence Force, a partnership that could be expanded through collaboration with the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) to further develop local expertise.

In the space sector, both RocketLab and Dawn Aerospace are key players. Although RocketLab is now primarily a US-based company, its New Zealand subsidiary remains locally owned and operated, with facilities in Auckland, the US, and Australia. Together, these firms contribute valuable capabilities in satellite technology and space propulsion systems.

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Maritime and ship building

New Zealand has a vibrant boatbuilding industry, spanning small recreational craft to medium-scale commercial and utility vessels. Many of these companies have the expertise and facilities to adapt their operations for defence applications.

This list is just a small sample there are many more that could easily get involved.

• Hamilton Jet: https://www.hamiltonjet.com
• Circa Marine: https://circamarine.co.nz
• McMullen & Wing: https://www.mcmullenandwing.com
• Lloyd & Steveson:  https://lloydstevensonyachts.co.nz
• Extreme Boats: https://www.extremeboats.co.nz

Under sea Drone

• Boxfish Robotics: https://www.boxfishrobotics.com

Robotics

• Robotics Plus: https://www.roboticsplus.co.nz
• NZRAS: https://www.nzras.org.nz
• Scott Technology: http://www.scott.co.nz
• Techmatics Robotics: https://techmatics.co.nz

These organisations could play an important role in autonomous systems, automation, and defence robotics development, including land-based and maritime robotic applications.

Tele Communications

• Tait Communications: https://www.taitcommunications.com
• NavMan: https://www.navman.co.nz

New Zealand’s telecommunications sector offers potential for collaboration in secure communications, navigation systems, and defence-grade connectivity solutions.

Gunsmiths

• Gunworks NZ: https://www.gunworks.co.nz
• Barnard Precision: http://www.barnard.co.nz
• Ordance Developments Ltd: https://www.ordnance.co.nz

While not focused on large-scale arms production, these companies possess the expertise to contribute to firearms maintenance, custom small arms development, and precision engineering for defence applications.

Computer & IT sector

New Zealand’s software and IT industry has strong potential to support defence through applications such as navigation systems, training simulators, communications, and command and control systems.

Collaboration between IT firms and aerospace or drone manufacturers could lead to integrated software solutions tailored to defence operations.

Cybersecurity and Digital Defence

Cybersecurity is a critical component of national defence. New Zealand already has several strong cybersecurity firms and consultancies that could support defence initiatives in network protection, secure communications, and critical infrastructure resilience. This includes opportunities to collaborate with the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) and other government bodies to strengthen national resilience against digital threats.

General Engineering Companies

New Zealand’s engineering firms could also play an integral role by partnering with defence contractors to develop innovative technologies and components.

During the ANZAC Frigate build, for example, New Zealand companies provided significant contributions, including the ventilation systems and hull and superstructure modules built by Culham Engineering in Whangārei — demonstrating the capability and quality of local industry.

Research, Innovation, and Collaboration

New Zealand’s innovation ecosystem — including universities, Crown Research Institutes (CRIs), and technology incubators — can also play a pivotal role in defence development. Institutions such as the University of Auckland, Massey University, and Callaghan Innovation have research capabilities in areas like autonomous systems, materials science, cybersecurity, and aerospace engineering.

By fostering stronger partnerships between industry, academia, and the Ministry of Defence, New Zealand can accelerate the translation of research into deployable defence technologies and create pathways for dual-use innovation (civilian and military).

Materials and Resources

• New Zealand Steel: https://www.nzsteel.co.nz
• Pacific Steel: https://www.pacificsteel.co.nz

These companies form a vital part of the supply chain, providing essential raw materials for defence-related manufacturing and engineering projects.

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, New Zealand’s defence industry could see growth in:

• Autonomous systems and drone technologies
• Dual-use (civil and military) aerospace innovation
• Cybersecurity and electronic defence systems
• Export partnerships with Australia, the UK, and Pacific allies
• Sustainable and locally sourced manufacturing

Conclusion

New Zealand possesses a diverse and capable industrial base — from aerospace and robotics to shipbuilding and materials engineering. By aligning these strengths with a clear defence industry strategy and fostering collaboration across sectors, New Zealand can build a sustainable and globally competitive defence ecosystem. With coordinated government support and industry initiative, the country is well-positioned to not only enhance its national resilience but also establish itself as a trusted contributor to international defence supply chains.