| 47 T T Kim Bowden Experience, knowledge the secret weapons Otago Furniture is committed to using quality materials that last, and the company offers a 10-year workmanship guarantee on all its products. MANUFACTURING Otago Furniture Co It may have been running for more than 158 years, but Otago Furniture is embracing modern techniques to create innovative furniture that meets the evolving needs of its strong customer base. The current company manager is a fifth-generation descendant of founder Francis Johnson Butterfield, who started making furniture in Dunedin in 1868. Her daughter, now working in the office, represents the sixth generation involved in the company. At the heart of Otago Furniture’s success is the loyalty and expertise of its team – including the factory floor manager, Chris, who has been with the company for over half a century. Another long-serving team member, Dennis, recently retired after more than 50 years with the company. But his regular appearance at the company’s Friday evening drinks is a testament to the camaraderie and closeknit, family-style culture that defines Otago Furniture. Commercial sales manager Guy Ramshaw says this “amazing wealth of experience” is one of the company’s secret weapons. “It allows us to do many, many things – we’re not constrained, because we have that knowledge.” That culture and depth of knowledge are increasingly rare in the industry, Guy says. “Industry knowledge is dying out,” he explains, adding that the specialist skills required are getting harder to find. All manufacturing happens locally in Dunedin, with materials sourced from New Zealand suppliers. Otago Furniture is committed to using quality materials that last, and the company offers a 10-year workmanship guarantee on all its products. Fabrics come from well-known Kiwi names like Warwick Fabrics, Textilia, and Maxwell Rodgers – who spins New Zealand wool into yarn just outside Wellington. When it comes to timber, a standout option is Southland beech, sourced nearby in Tuatapere, Southland. However, one of the most popular choices is American ash – a more affordable alternative to the highly sought-after American oak. “The beauty of American ash is that it comes from a cooperative in the US, made up of smaller forestry operations,” Guy says. “They’ve managed to avoid the Emerald Ash Borer that’s affected other forests, so we’re getting a high-quality (consistent product).” From small custom pieces to large-scale commercial fit-outs, Otago Furniture’s work can be found across the country – in places as varied as hotel chains, healthcare facilities, and retirement villages. One of its largest customers is Ryman Healthcare. “We provide all the furnishings for their main villages – typically dining halls, cinemas, etc., and even their hospital units,” Guy says. More recently, the company has been collaborating with major construction firms like Naylor Love on specialist projects that showcase the team’s craftsmanship and innovation. “We’re about to come on board with the Pacific Radiology project here in Dunedin,” Guy says. “ We’re producing bespoke ceiling and wall screens made from solid wood, custom-built to the client’s specifications.” “It allows us to do many, many things – we’re not constrained, because we have that knowledge.” Guy is confident the finished pieces will serve as striking design features within the new building, offering both function and beauty. Pleased to be supporting Otago Furniture Co
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