This week I have an opinion-piece article in the Hutt News, in putting it together I really struggled to keep it within the 500-word limit, so wanted to share an extended version of that story here.
Lower Hutt has long been known for its industrial sector, and in recent years, there has been a remarkable shift from traditional heavy industrial processes to becoming a hub of high-tech manufacturing, research, and digital innovation. This evolution is shaping the future of Lower Hutt and putting us on the global map as a centre for cutting-edge technology. One of my favourite parts of being a city councillor is meeting awesome humans doing awesome things.
A striking example of this shift is the emergence of companies like A44 Games. Founded in 2013, A44 excels at gameplay and cinematic experiences. In 2018, they released the hugely successful Ashen. Just last week, they launched their latest game, Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn. This game continues their tradition of creating immersive and engaging experiences for gamers worldwide.
In scientific innovation, AROTEC Diagnostics stands out. Specialising in autoimmune diagnostics, Arotec contributes to global healthcare advancements from their home in Seaview. Despite exporting just 50 grams of product annually, their impact is profound—helping hundreds of thousands of people every year. Their work in creating highly pure proteins (antigens) for diagnosing autoimmune diseases such as Lupus and Rheumatoid Arthritis is critical for accurate medical diagnoses globally.
Metco Engineering epitomises the shift from traditional industry to high-tech manufacturing. They specialise in precision-machined parts and custom engineering solutions for aerospace, defence, and medical devices. Another local business, Foundry Lab, is revolutionising manufacturing with their digital metal casting technology. By reducing production times, they set new standards in efficiency and precision, enabling faster and more adaptable manufacturing processes.
In sustainable agriculture, Hot Lime Labs captures and repurposes carbon dioxide to enhance greenhouse crop production. This innovation supports agricultural efficiency and aligns with global sustainability goals, reflecting Lower Hutt’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
Pertronic Industries helps make advanced fire detection, alarm, and suppression systems to detect and suppress fires. Just around the corner, Fraser Engineering builds the high-quality fire trucks that respond, being used locally and exported worldwide. Together, these companies form a crucial part of our fire safety and emergency response ecosystem.
Software products also play a significant role as weightless exports from Lower Hutt. Businesses like PaySauce, providing payroll solutions for small businesses, and Arlo, offering robust learning management systems for training organisations, exemplify this shift.
A particularly exciting development comes from the Paihau—Robinson Research Institute at Victoria University of Wellington. This institute is a world leader in high-temperature superconductivity (HTS) research. They are developing ultra-efficient motors and generators that are set to revolutionise the aviation industry. Partnering with Air New Zealand, they are working on the Mission Next Gen Aircraft project, aiming to replace the airline’s Q300 domestic fleet with zero-emission aircraft by 2030. This groundbreaking work involves superconducting motors, which significantly increase power output while reducing weight, making sustainable electric aviation a feasible reality.
Speaking with Patrick McKibbin, the CEO of the Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce, he highlighted the significance of these businesses and their impact on our community:
“The Hutt Valley is the most amazing place to do business. We have many fantastic businesses that create jobs and significant contributions to our local, regional, and New Zealand’s economy. The region has 400% more scientists and researchers than anywhere else in New Zealand, it has businesses making parts for Rocket Lab, and exporting their technology and products all over the world. We have businesses that are leaders in biotechnology and researchers developing vaccines, health products, clean energy solutions, alongside others developing electric plane engines. Our businesses collaborate and create an environment to make the Hutt Valley a great place to do business.”
The Chamber’s upcoming Wellington Regional Business Excellence Awards are a fantastic opportunity to celebrate and shine a spotlight on our vibrant business community. Entries close on 13th September, with the awards night on 15th November. These awards provide a great platform to recognise and appreciate the innovative and hard-working businesses that contribute to our local economy.
Supporting and celebrating local businesses in Lower Hutt is something I am passionate about. Our community is full of talented individuals and companies doing extraordinary things. So next time you’re driving past an unmarked roller door, just wonder what world-changing activity is going on behind it.
Hutt City Council team at the 2023 Wellington Regional Business Excellence Awards