Trimax Mowing Systems

For over 40 years, Trimax Mowing Systems has led the development of high-performance commercial mowing equipment for professional turf maintenance. Trimax’s relentless pursuit of innovation and commitment to advancing turf technology empowers customers to achieve exceptional results.

With manufacturing facilities in the USA, United Kingdom, and New Zealand, along with a global sales and service network, Trimax is uniquely positioned to meet worldwide needs. In a recent interview, CEO Michael Sievwright discussed the expansion of Trimax’s global manufacturing plants, including the significant upgrade of their Tauranga facility and Trimax’s local career opportunities.

Addressing capacity constraints and enhancing efficiency

“The primary motivation for Trimax’s expansion in New Zealand was the need to increase capacity for our southern hemisphere operations,” explained Michael Sievwright. The existing facility, constructed in the 1980s, struggled with space limitations that affected efficiency. The new expansion addresses these issues by offering additional room for extensive product storage and streamlined production processes. Notable upgrades include a state-of-the-art paint system designed for more efficient blasting and a two-stage powder coating process.

Aligning with long-term vision

Sievwright noted, “As manufacturers, designers, and distributors of machinery, having the right facilities is crucial for producing premium products at scale.” Post-COVID, Trimax reassessed its approach and brought more core manufacturing tasks in-house. This required investment in specialized machinery for fabrication, rotor production, and electronic assembly. Their long-term vision includes integrating additional robotics into the manufacturing process, which not only scales production but also allows staff to acquire new skills and extend their careers.

Local manufacturing and customer support

Trimax’s local manufacturing philosophy is integral to the Trimax brand. Sievwright highlighted the value of being a New Zealand-owned company, providing expert service and knowledge to local customers. Over the past three years, Trimax has tripled its manufacturing space across various facilities globally and applied international learnings to enhance local operations.

Impact on the local community

The expansion has positively impacted the local community by creating new positions and offering skill development programs for existing employees. Sievwright emphasized investments in training, particularly in robotics and automation. Trimax supports local youth through apprenticeship programs and community initiatives, such as Bay of Plenty Youth Development Trust and Good Neighbour.

Trimax also engages with community organisations, high schools, and tertiary institutions to host ‘career tours’ at its Tauranga facilities. These events showcase the diverse employment opportunities within a global manufacturing, design, and distribution business, based right here in Tauranga. These events can be tailored to suit the subject focus or year levels of visiting students.

More about Michael Sievwright

Michael Sievwright is an accomplished business leader with expertise in global strategy and management. As the CEO of Trimax Mowing Systems, he leads the business with teams across four countries, driving growth and innovation. His international experience, including time living in the USA and UK, provides valuable market experience. Beyond his role at Trimax, he serves on the board of Machines at Work, an agritech automation startup focused on making automation accessible, and is a trustee of the Bay of Plenty Youth Development Trust. Additionally, Michael contributes to industry development as a member of the ExportNZ Committee.