44 | MANUFACTURING RML Machinery EtherCAT and PC-Based Control: New Automation Technology Headquarters New Zealand %HFNKR ߗ $XWRPDWLRQ /LPLWHG 8QLW ) 2UELW 'ULYH $OEDQ\ $XFNODQG 1HZ =HDODQG LQIR#EHFNKR ߗ FR Q] ZZZ EHFNKR ߗ FRP HQ Q] RML Machinery Ltd +64 7 849 3215 sales@rmlnz.com Proud to support: Contact our solution provider RML Machinery Ltd Award wins for leader in automation RML’s Automated Guided Vehicles are designed and built in Hamilton for use across manufacturing, logistics, and industrial operations. T T Kelly Deeks RML Machinery has cemented its position as a leader in New Zealand automation, taking out both the Supreme Award and Innovation Award at the 2025 Waikato Chamber of Commerce Business Awards for its development of Automated Guided Vehicles, a technology now reshaping manufacturing and logistics across New Zealand and Australia. The recognition reflects years of investment in locally designed automation with judges describing RML as an exemplar of Waikato innovation, combining technical capability with strong commercial outcomes and a clear impact on customers and the wider community. RML Chief Executive Daryl Joyce says the award win validates a long term strategy to build advanced automation in New Zealand rather than relying on imported systems. Central to that strategy is the development of Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) by RML, designed and built in Hamilton for use across manufacturing, logistics, and industrial operations. “Our goal is to ensure customers have access to world-class technology with local support, avoiding the challenges of offshore suppliers in different time zones and with limited responsiveness,” Daryl says. “Our ability to design, manufacture, install and support equipment in-house is a key differentiator.” The AGV project was developed in response to a customer problem with RML committing to design and build a tailored solution that has since become a core product offering. Those vehicles are now delivering measurable results with customers reporting productivity improvements and more efficient, safer, and more reliable material handling operations. A key part of RML’s growth has been its people strategy with an average staff age of 36 and a deliberate focus on developing talent from apprentices and graduates through to senior engineers. The company works closely with Wintec, the University of Waikato, and the University of Canterbury to identify emerging talent and build a long-term pipeline of skilled engineers and technicians. Daryl says that partnership approach shortens recruitment time while ensuring new staff are well matched to the business culture, which is built around curiosity, learning, and continuous improvement. RML also employs experienced staff with decades of industry knowledge creating a blended workforce where seasoned engineers work alongside younger team members in a shared learning environment. Daryl says innovation is driven by challenge with the company deliberately taking on selected complex projects that stretch its capabilities and encourage problem solving across all levels of the organisation. He says curiosity is central to the culture with staff encouraged to learn from each other and contribute ideas regardless of experience or seniority. Entering the awards was an important moment for the team, helping them reflect on their achievements and articulate their purpose more clearly. Looking ahead RML is preparing for further growth in 2026 with new projects underway and continued expansion of its AGV platform across Australia and New Zealand. “We remain focused on building capability, supporting customers long term, and investing in people as the foundation of sustained innovation.” The award momentum is set to accelerate development and further strengthen regional manufacturing capability across the automation sector in New Zealand and Australia.
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