Future-proofed: Introducing Kohler’s ground-breaking new premises
Left to Right: Selena Wong, Matthew Donaghy , Anna Atkinson, Alexander Hyslop , Geoff Ridley, Richard Nahi, Peter Goodburn
This week marked an exciting milestone for Kohler New Zealand as we officially broke ground on our state-of-the-art new facility in Whenuapai – a major step forward in our journey toward innovation, sustainability and long-term operational excellence.
Located in the Spedding Industrial Estate, the new premises have been purpose-designed to strengthen operational performance, reduce our environmental footprint and enhance staff wellbeing.
Comprising 4,500 square metres of warehousing and manufacturing space, supported by modern offices, a showroom, dedicated training facilities, and research and development areas, the new premises are being delivered in partnership with local teams Midpoint Investments and Aspec Construction.
Construction is underway and is expected to be completed in July/August 2026.
Key stakeholders attending the ground-breaking ceremony included Alexander Hyslop, General Manager of Kohler New Zealand; Peter Goodburn, Senior Operational Manager; Geoff Ridley, Executive Director of Midpoint Investments; and Matthew Donaghy, Managing Director of Aspec Construction.
They were joined by Anna Atkinson, Chair of the Upper Harbour Local Board; Board Member Selena Wong; and Auckland Council Kaumātua, Richard Nahi, who delivered a moving karakia to bless the site and acknowledge the significance of the project.
A transformative new era for Kohler
After 43 years at the Glenfield site, the move represents a pivotal moment in Kohler’s New Zealand journey.
“The business has changed, and how we operate has changed,” says Kohler’s General Manager, Alexander Hyslop. “The Glenfield facility has served us well, but as we adapt and grow, moving into a purpose-designed environment positions us for long-term success.”
Kohler’s operational and leadership teams have been closely involved in the project, contributing to everything from early spatial planning to detailed design considerations. All aspects of the new facility have been crafted to enhance operations, while creating space for future growth and innovation.
“Every function and department will benefit from this move,” Hyslop explains. “As well as expanded warehousing, the new premises will feature a dedicated training facility and a specific research and development space for product testing and innovation, and a more modern office space and showroom.”
Sustainability meets high performance
Sustainability has been a central driver throughout the design process. The facility incorporates a range of environmentally responsible features that will reduce resource use, cut emissions and improve efficiency, including:
- LED warehouse lighting with motion sensors, ensuring energy is used only when necessary
- EV charging infrastructure and provisions for on-site solar generation
- High-performance insulation and optimised lighting for comfort and reduced energy consumption
- Extensive end-of-trip facilities, including bike parking and showers, to support active and public transport
- Stormwater retention systems to reduce runoff and improve water sustainability
“Given the size of the roof and hardstand areas, there’s a huge catchment,” notes Matthew Donaghy of Aspec Construction. “Capturing and reusing that water is a big sustainability win. It’s about using power and water efficiently, implementing lighting only when needed, and reducing carbon output – a really exciting approach.”
A better workplace – and a better customer experience
One of the most transformative changes will be consolidating all New Zealand operations under one roof.
“Right now, we’re split across two sites,” explains Senior Operational Manager, Peter Goodburn. “Having everything in one place means better service for our customers – no more delays waiting for goods to move from South Auckland.”
A new warehouse management system will further streamline operations, providing real-time stock visibility to improve speed, accuracy and overall efficiency. Staff will also notice significant improvements over the current site, including:A covered breezeway for safer, weather-protected unloading
- A purpose-built warehouse floor that reduces dust, protects product quality and improves health and safety
- Integrated warehouse and office spaces for enhanced connection and collaboration
- High-quality amenities and abundant natural light
- Rainwater harvesting and rain gardens
“The design aims to bring people together,” says Goodburn. “Integrating the office into the warehouse rather than separating them helps build connection and culture. This will be a real asset for our staff moving forward.”
Supporting growth across Upper Harbour and West Auckland
The development represents a wider contribution to the region’s economic and community growth. Upper Harbour Local Board Chair, Anna Atkinson, notes that historically, West Auckland has lacked significant industrial development and therefore local employment.
“Developments like this bring jobs closer to home, which is hugely valuable,” explains Atkinson. “The Whenuapai region is expected to grow rapidly in the coming years – potentially adding around 100,000 residents and creating approximately 13,000 jobs. Alongside new housing, the area will benefit from new sports grounds, walkways, bikeways and recreation spaces, supporting a vibrant, future-focused community.”
“This development represents an exciting milestone for everyone involved,” says Geoff Ridley, Executive Director of Midpoint Investments. “Our shared vision has been to create a facility that supports Kohler’s next chapter in New Zealand, while contributing positively to Auckland’s wider industrial landscape.”
”West Auckland is one of the country’s fastest-growing industrial corridors, and developments like ours help to lift the bar for what modern, future-ready facilities should be. Our team is proud to contribute to the region’s momentum and create assets that support economic growth.”
Future-ready for anything
The new facility will bring all New Zealand manufacturing under one roof, including Englefield, which Kohler acquired more than 25 years ago.
“Manufacturing here in Aotearoa gives us adaptability, quality control and the advantage of keeping design, engineering and production close to the market,” Hyslop explains. “It’s a critical part of who we are. This investment reinforces Kohler’s long-term commitment to New Zealand.”
Goodburn agrees. “This new facility shows our customers and staff that Kohler is committed to the future. We’re here to stay, we’re growing, and we’re invested in the future.”
“Ultimately, the new space is more than a building – it’s the foundation for the next era of Kohler in New Zealand,” agrees Hyslop. “It gives us the tools to ensure Kohler’s continued success well into the future.”