NZ DefMin congratulates winners of 2018 Defence Industry Awards of Excellence

“It was an honour to congratulate the winners and finalists across all the categories, and acknowledge the nominees who have earned the respect of those who put them forward for these awards,” says Ron Mark.

The Minister of Defence Industry Awards of Excellence for 2018 were presented in Palmerston North last night.

Minister of Defence Ron Mark says the winners and nominees represent companies which support the New Zealand Defence Force's ability to continuously operate at the high standard the Coalition Government expects.

"The annual awards are an opportunity to recognise industry's significant contributions to Defence and, as in previous years, the calibre of nominations was very strong," says Ron Mark.

"The Defence industry sector employs around 2,500 people throughout New Zealand, generating $125 million in wages, and $60 million in profit, with industry hubs located in main centres as well as in Whangarei, Hamilton, the Manawatu, Blenheim and Nelson.

"The Coalition Government recognises the value which is generated by the industry and we are looking to see increased economic benefit delivered throughout the country from this sector. This is particularly important with the current Coalition Government already having committed to $2.8 billion in Defence capital investment in its first year.

"It was an honour to congratulate the winners and finalists across all the categories, and acknowledge the nominees who have earned the respect of those who put them forward for these awards," says Ron Mark.

Nominations covered some of the wide range of services and products that support Defence, including helicopter engines, hydraulics, diving equipment and systems, strategic planning and delivery.

(With Inputs from New Zealand Government Press Release)