| 57 T T Karen Phelps Newmachine boosts efficiency AFFCO Moerewa processes multiple species including ovine and bovine, from slaughter through to further processing, offering a full range of chilled and frozen cuts. PRODUCTION AFFCO Moerewa AFFCO Moerewa, the Far North’s longstanding meat processing plant, continues to prioritise efficiency and innovation with the installation of a new V8600 vacuum machine in its boning plant. Established in 1917, it has evolved over more than a century to remain a modern, highly productive facility, says plant manager at AFFCO Moerewa Kevin Casey. “It’s a bigger machine, which can achieve more cuts per minute. It means we can produce more chilled cuts faster,” he explains. “It’s about adaptability and efficiency, which has allowed AFFCO to remain competitive in a global marketplace.” AFFCO Moerewa processes multiple species including ovine and bovine, from slaughter through to further processing, offering a full range of chilled and frozen cuts. It also produces offals and associated products, including foetal blood, while operating a rendering plant that generates meat, bone meal and tallow. The facility has its own blast freezing and cold storage operations. In recent years AFFCO Moerewa has made environmental improvements as well, such as converting its boiler from coal to wood chip, part of the wider company’s commitment to energy efficiency. Since 2014, the organisation has partnered with the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) to implement an energy management programme across its sites, reducing annual energy use and carbon emissions significantly. Kevin says the company is actively working to reduce its use of plastics in packaging while maintaining product integrity. In some beef plants such as Moerewa new cartons have been introduced that eliminate the need for plastic strapping, utilising a tape and glue system that meets export standards. The plant, which employs approximately 340 staff, operates on a two-shift schedule for nine months of the year, with an additional three months dedicated to processing bobby calves. Kevin says this employment structure provides a steady income for many in the region, allowing residents to work locally rather than commuting outside the district. Kevin says the plant’s continued investments are not only about machinery. “We’re always looking for good staff to employ and there are plenty of opportunities,” he says. “Staff are given training and upskilling, and those with drive can progress to leading hand and supervisory roles. This helps ensure a steady pipeline of skilled workers alongside supporting the Northland community, of which the plant is an integral part.” As the largest employer in the region, it enjoys strong support from the community and contributes significantly to the local economy. The relationship between AFFCO Moerewa and its farmer suppliers is a cornerstone of the business. The plant is fully halal approved, supplying major markets worldwide including the EU, North America, and Asia, including China. Kevin explains that the facility’s integrated compliance system, which holds HACCP and AusMeat approvals, allows it to meet specific customer requirements while remaining flexible in marketing its products. As part of the New Zealand-owned AFFCO group, which exports lamb, beef, and allied products to over 80 countries, the Moerewa plant benefits from shared resources and expertise. Kevin says this connection allows it to continue to invest in both staff and technology, ensuring the facility remains a modern, efficient operation. 022 590 8800 or 021 0220 2728 bruce@smw.co.nz www.smw.co.nz Proudly supporting Affco - Moerewa • Project Designs & Install • Fabrication & Welding • Plant Maintenance • Gantry servicing • Boiler Servicing • Shutdowns POST PEELINGS | WOODCHIP | SAW DUST | PALM KERNEL FERTILISER DELIVERIES | SILO DELIVERIES
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