Eighty per cent of New Zealand furniture is made from wood or wood products and research shows there are still business opportunities through a growing desire for New Zealand designed furniture.
Furniture making in New Zealand covers a range of sectors, skills, activities and products from the small handcrafted furniture operation to larger companies specialising in production furniture using computerised numerically controlled (CNC) machines and equipment.
Furniture is made for commercial and domestic use and export overseas. Raw materials can include manufactured board (MDF), solid wood, veneers, glass, steel, fabric and leather either in combination or separately. Products range from board tables, lounge suites and home entertainment units to shop fit-outs.
The main sectors within the industry are:
Furniture making (cabinet making)
Products are produced for commercial or domestic use from manufactured board and/or solid wood.
Upholstery manufacturing
The manufacture of lounge suites, sofas, settees and chairs mainly from fabrics and leathers.
Finishing (polishing)
The application of paint, stains, lacquers and other coatings to furniture and furniture components using spray equipment and other application techniques.
Other sectors in the furniture industry include steel furniture, bedding manufacture (mattress making) and the restoration and repair of older items.
What the role and product, the furniture industry depends on people with knowledge, technical skills, good judgement, patience and an eye for detail. |
 |
