We’re home to world-leading businesses, innovative design companies, a renowned creative industry and a host of ‘firsts' and ‘onlys'.
Whanganui was one of the first cities in New Zealand to roll out ultra-fast broadband and we’ve remained at the forefront of digital developments: in 2018, an international think tank ranked Whanganui the best small smart city in the world.
Economists highlight the diversity of Whanganui's economy, which is known for innovative and niche businesses. We welcome and support business growth and we are interested in innovation and aspirational ideas.
Consents and compliance processes are efficient in Whanganui. Thanks to a productive and forward-thinking council, systems are in place to resolve compliance issues quickly and simply.
Whanganui has a proud history of entrepreneurship and a loyal local base who understand the importance of supporting small business and business growth.
Pacific Helmets, Q-West boatbuilders and Wight Aluminium are three local companies which epitomise the values of the local business community; driven by excellence, forward thinking, innovative and committed to their communities.
Liberty Bracegirdle
Retail store owner
Recycle the Label is a boutique with a difference - perfectly mixing sustainability and goodwill. This retail outlet sells high-quality secondhand clothing and donates unsold items and a portion of its profits with Women's Refuge.
Damon Wagstaff
Director at Wight Aluminium
Wight Aluminium is one of New Zealand’s largest manufacturers of commercial aluminium windows and curtain wall products. The company has delivered façade solutions for many prominent development projects in the Auckland and Wellington cityscapes and wider North Island. Established in 1965, Wight Aluminium has grown to now be one of the largest businesses in Whanganui, and is proud to retain a strong local presence and community contribution. Wight Aluminium has a team of around 120 employees, with more than 50 based in their new, purpose-built manufacturing facility in Whanganui.
Michael and Sandra Eden
Owners of GDM
At GDM, "Good Design Matters". With over 60 employees, the company designs, engineers, creates prototypes and manufactures fixtures and furniture to customer specifications. Michael and Sandra are proud of their company's impressive facilities, which utilise lean processes to create internationally sought-after design. GDM is an example of a local business doing exceptional things - for its community and consumers.
Sam Monaghan
Barbershop owner
Sam established Monaghan's Barbershop in 2016. With a focus on quality craftsmanship, Sam has created an authentic, laid-back environment where customers can come to relax. Sam's team of barbers has grown and is recognised within the community as a premier service provider.
Roxi Douglas and Malcolm Whitlock
Owners of The Citadel
The Citadel's burgers are a Whanganui must-eat. With Castlecliff Beach just a few hundred metres away, The Citadel is the perfect spot to get a taste of Whanganui's laid back lifestyle. "We want to create a place that brings people in from other communities to see what a beautiful place we live in whilst eating some of the best food and drink this town has to offer!"
Katie Brown
Glass artist
Katie Brown has established an international following for her detail to design within hot glass. Her designs are inspired by the natural world. With a delicate use of structure and form, Katie creates pieces that are beautiful, functional and highly sought-after.
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