40 | South Pacific Meats T T Karen Phelps Important driver of regional economy Based in Invercargill, the plant is one of the region’s largest employers. REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Invercargill’s South Pacific Meats shows that meat processing remains one of the backbones of New Zealand’s primary sector infrastructure. Operating almost around the clock, the site employs more than 500 people across two shifts, running close to 24 hours a day from Monday to Friday, with occasional weekend work depending on demand. That level of activity reflects the essential role large processing plants play in keeping livestock supply chains moving and regional economies functioning says plant manager Brent Crawford. “It’s not just about processing animals; it’s about keeping the whole system flowing,” he says. “From the farmers who supply us through to the contractors, transport operators and service businesses we rely on, there’s a wide network that depends on the plant operating well.” Based in Invercargill, the plant is one of the region’s largest employers. The economic impact extends well beyond the factory gates with spending flowing into local trades, engineering services, maintenance providers and hospitality. Over its long history the site has evolved alongside changes in technology, regulation and workforce expectations. It has undergone a comprehensive refurbishment programme with the majority of upgrades completed over the past eight years. Brent says these improvements have modernised everything from stockyards to freezers and offices, ensuring the plant remains fit for purpose in a competitive global industry. The most recent stage was completed in 2024 with the opening of a new office block, staff amenities and dining facilities. The upgrade significantly expanded the dining area, introduced open-plan offices and added new showers, toilets and amenities to cater for a growing workforce. “It’s been very well received by the staff,” says Brent. “They take pride in their workplace and facilities and that relates directly to our efficiency and production.” Investment in people is seen as just as important as investment in machinery. Staff numbers have increased alongside the upgrades, and the plant is currently fully staffed. Workers are offered practical support to start their shifts well including access to fruit, toast, cereal, tea and coffee on arrival and throughout the day. “That might sound small, but it matters when you’re running long shifts in a physically demanding environment,” says Brent. “Looking after people helps with retention and performance, which ultimately supports the wider industry.” Environmental performance has also Ph: 03 218 8919 • Email: admin@insidesystems.co.nz • 121 Eye Street • PO Box 1133, Invercargill • Plumbing • Drainage • Air Conditioning • Heating • Ventilation Semi auto and High speed Strapping Machines Vertical and Horizontal Strapping Series Shrink Wrapping Machines Horizontal FlowWrapping Machines Case-Carton Sealer Vacuum Packers Pallet Wrapping Machines Strapping Materials Sellotape Pallet Wrap/Stretch Film Shrink Wrapping Materials Meat Wrapping Film Safety Consumables Hygiene Consumables Cardboard Packaging Products Consumables Nik Bright - Sales Mobile: 027 811 0110 Email: nik@tyronepackaging.co.nz Sefton Pease - Director Mobile: +64 21 718 646 Email: sefton@tyronepackaging.co.nz WHERE PACKAGING PERFORMS become a core part of maintaining that social licence to operate. The site has invested in modern waste treatment, energy efficiency and by-product utilisation, ensuring that as much value as possible is extracted from each animal while reducing environmental impact. On-site facilities include a waste treatment plant, rendering operations to produce meat and bone meal and tallow, skin processing for salted sheep skins, and blast freezing and storage.
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