Logistics automation show to put industry to work in NZ
New Zealand logistics operators facing labour shortages and rising freight costs will be able to compare equipment and discuss ways to improve their businesses directly with suppliers and industry specialists at a new Auckland trade event.
“The industry is ready for this conversation. It’s not just about connecting suppliers and customers, it’s about bringing people together to share ideas, exchange insights and find solutions that work for the New Zealand economy,” says event manager Deb Haimes.
“We haven’t had a dedicated platform like this before and that’s exactly why it matters.”
The Logistics Automation New Zealand Powered by CeMAT event runs at Auckland Showgrounds on November 10 and 11, 2026. Haimes describes it as New Zealand’s first dedicated platform for logistics and warehouse automation, covering warehousing, material handling, packaging, order picking and supply chain management.
Haimes says the two days will bring suppliers, customers and decision-makers together with keynote speakers, exhibitors and industry innovators, offering a choice of sessions alongside opportunities to see equipment in action.
“The Knowledge Theatre, inspired and powered by SSI Schäfer, will feature more than 30 speakers covering automation, logistics and supply chain strategy,” Haimes says.
Logistics Executive Group’s Kim Winter will guide the programme and act as master of ceremonies across both days.
Haimes says the international keynotes include International Data Corporation’s Stephanie Krishnan, global logistics leader and Logistics & Supply Chain Management Society president Dr Raymon Krishnan, and Mushiny Robotics general manager Scott van Munster.
The International Data Corporation session will examine how roles change as artificial intelligence and robots take on more planning and execution. It will cover responsibilities shared between people and automated systems, workforce trust, and how to assess improvements in safety and performance.
For small and medium-sized operations, van Munster will discuss flexible automation, including equipment available now and how to avoid buying more technology than an operation needs.
Haimes says New Zealand industry leaders will bring their expertise to the programme, including Port of Auckland’s Roger Gray, Nic Blakeley from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, GingerControl’s Chen Cui and NZPICS general manager Vijay Todkar.
They will be joined by Automate-X’s Jordan McFall, Ben Haughey and Marcel van Niekerk, Argon & Co’s Richard Mahoney, Briscoe Group’s Darren Porteous and Ranpak’s Saar Davidi. Additional speakers and panellists will be announced.
“Sessions span technology trends, supply chain shifts, talent gaps and the policy settings needed to help New Zealand businesses compete,” Haimes says.
She describes the exhibition floor as New Zealand’s largest gathering of leading industry suppliers, showcasing their latest equipment.
Exhibitors include Automate-X, Geek+, Mushiny, Kardex, Beumer Group, Hyundai Material Handling, Dexion, Beckhoff, Axelent, Bluesword, SSI Schäfer, Jungheinrich, Toyota Automated Logistics, GingerControl, Epicor and IFS Softeon.
“Visitors will be able to talk directly with technology providers and see innovations in action. It’s a chance to move from interest to decision in two days.”
The IFS Softeon networking and function bar will provide space to reconnect with colleagues, hold informal meetings and continue discussions with suppliers.
The New Zealand Forklift Championships will also take place within the trade event, bringing what Haimes describes as the country’s most skilled operators head-to-head on a live, timed precision course on the show floor, judged by ASWEFA. Competitors will be assessed on speed, accuracy and safe operation.
“Visitors will be able to watch elite material handling professionals push the limits of precision and celebrate excellence in the industry,” Haimes says.
Industry professionals can register to attend free of charge. Haimes says registration details, the full seminar schedule and the exhibitor line-up are available on the event website.
Sponsored content: For more information visit www.logisticsautomation.co.nz.