Manawatū Knitting Mills – Celebrating 140 years in business
With a history dating back 140 years, Manawatū Knitting Mills has survived the twists and turns of industry since 1884, mirroring New Zealand’s coming of age from a colony to a nation. Today they are a future focused, familyowned business, and use state of the art technology and a highly skilled team of staff to ensure they lead the way when it comes to high quality knitwear.
Manawatū Knitting Mills has become Australasia’s most recognised knitwear manufacturer. Adapting and changing with market demands has been the driving force for the success of their business. They were there to make the 1905 Originals All Black jersey for the English and Australian tour, and to produce puttees for our troops during WWI - showing their dedication to the knitwear industry both historically and today.
While other manufacturers have made the decision to move offshore, Manawatū Knitting Mills has always been determined to remain a New Zealand business in every sense. They pride themselves on innovation and support of local industry and fibre, and most importantly, their connection to the people who ensure the industry that they occupy continues to thrive – their customers.
Market demands
With a constant drive for innovation and ideas, Manawatū Knitting Mills design and manufacture their products at their headquarters in Palmerston North, and have over 750 retail customers worldwide. They also produce specifically designed garments for government and corporate partnerships.
They support local industry and fibre and their connection with the producers, suppliers, and buyers, has ensured their business continues to thrive.
Along with precision technology, and their highly skilled workforce with decades of industry experience, their products are produced to the highest quality.
Environment
Manawatū Knitting Mills strive to have minimal impact on the global and local environment, and are dedicated to the preservation of our country’s unique environment. Their in-house brand – MKM Originals - addresses issues around sustainability in the fashion and textile industry by using a unique recycled yarn called Eco Blend. Fibre fluff that is usually discarded, is collected and re-spun to create an entirely new yarn with exceptional properties. This innovation has turned production waste into a premium yarn combining the best characteristics of its component fibres.
All their products are 100% New Zealand made from their Palmerston North based factory. Their Pure Wool is sourced from New Zealand farms and spun into a premium yarn in New Zealand. Manawatū Knitting Mills’ modern knitwear collections are a celebration of 140 years of knitting knowledge and expertise, combined with a progressive outlook on modern life and style.