increase font size
Hemp fibre processor Rubisco is relocating its core processing facility to Ashburton as part of a $20-$30 million expansion to leverage what it says is an accelerating global demand for sustainable and renewable fibres.
The Carrfields majority-owned company installed a European hemp decorticator machine, which separates the valuable bast fibres from the woody hurd, at a former wool carpet factory in Burnside, Christchurch, just six years ago. The company says demand for its services has now surpassed its capacity.
By relocating the decortication line to a purpose-built facility in Ashburton, Rubisco will be closer to its primary hemp fibre supply base, streamlining the supply chain and reducing transportation emissions.
The Burnside facility remains the company's centre for product development, advanced textiles, functional fibres, biocomposites, and non-wovens.
Rubisco CEO Guy Wills said the decision to move operations to Ashburton was both practical and forward-thinking.
"With the strength of our local supplier network and rising demand for hemp products, the new facility will position Rubisco to scale up production and continue to innovate."
The New Zealand hemp industry is hoping for quick and comprehensive reform of its legislative framework after a recent "historic" visit to sites in Canterbury by a big group of politicians, officials and industry stakeholders.
OPINION: Local Government is badly underfunded. Economic circumstances demand a new approach to funding the constant burden of infrastructure delivery and renewal. The costs can be eased for rural ratepayers.
OPINION: Local government is badly underfunded.
A study of hemp growing between the rows in New Zealand vineyards shows “exciting” results that the hemp beneficially affects soils and wines.
A group of South Island farmers say they are about to expand their range after the successful launch of an apparel business based on blending hemp fibre with merino wool.
According to the latest Fresh Produce Trend Report from United Fresh, 2026 will be a year where fruit and vegetables are shaped by cost pressures, rapid digital adoption, and a renewed focus on wellbeing at home.
The Roar is a highlight of the game hunting calendar in New Zealand, with thousands of hunters set to head for the hills to hunt male stags during March and April.
OPINION: The past few weeks have been tough on farms across the North Island: floods and storms have caused damage and disruption to families and businesses.
European dairy giant Arla Foods celebrated its 25th anniversary as a cross-border, farmer-owned co-operative with a solid half-year result.
The sale of Fonterra’s global consumer and related businesses is expected to be completed within two months.
Fonterra is boosting its butter production capacity to meet growing demand.
OPINION: Meanwhile, red blooded Northland politician Matua Shane Jones has provided one of the most telling quotes of the year…
OPINION: This old mutt has been around for a few years now and it seems these ‘once in 100-year’ weather…
