DB has completed a major upgrade to its Waitematā brewing and packaging facilities, with Minister for Small Business and Manufacturing, Hon Cameron Brewer, officially opening the newly modernised facility today. The project strengthens the brewery's capability and efficiency, positioning it to support future growth and evolving consumer preferences.
The project represents a $30 million investment in New Zealand manufacturing capability and has modernised critical equipment across the site, including new, faster can packers that give greater format flexibility; two new tanks to expand batch brewing capacity; and significant improvements to bottle lines including new packers and a new bottle filler.
DB Managing Director Peter Hart said the project reflects the company's commitment to improving operational performance and strengthening its manufacturing capability for the long term.
"This upgrade is anchoring DB as a more productive, efficient and competitive business for the long term. The Waitematā brewery is at the heart of our operations. Modernising the site ensures we're well positioned to serve customers, respond to changing consumer preferences and support future growth. And importantly, we’re immediately seeing the productivity benefits of the upgrades. For example, the upgraded NRG bottle line is producing around 30,000 bottles an hour, which is 30% more than before.”
The investment supports DB's focus on improving operational performance and capturing productivity gains from its manufacturing side. It will also increase capability in growing segments of the market, particularly low-carb beer, and can formats, with low-carb products remaining the fastest-growing beer segment in New Zealand.
