HVAC&R South debuts at SouthMACH with record attendance

The inaugural HVAC&R South event launched at SouthMACH in Christchurch, drawing 2,101 visitors and marking a new milestone for the HVAC&R sector in New Zealand’s South Island.

Organised as part of SouthMACH 2025, the HVAC&R South hub attracted consistent foot traffic and generated a high volume of leads and enquiries, according to Gina McMaster, CEO of the HVAC&R Centre.

The programme featured a range of industry speakers presenting on topics such as HVAC system optimisation using CFD, fan selection, regulatory compliance, H1/VM3-compliant folded galvanised ducting, and electronic expansion valves focused on energy efficiency and sustainability.

One exhibitor has already rebooked for the next edition of HVAC&R South, scheduled for 2027.

The event was supported by partners and programme contributors including Catherine Lye of Advancing Manufacturing Aotearoa, Jane Finlayson of EMA, Dieter Adam of MAKEZ, John Hamilton of Business Canterbury, the University of Canterbury, and Business South.

“The event itself was a record-breaker,” said Gina McMaster. “Our hub was buzzing throughout, attracting strong foot traffic, high-quality leads and a steady stream of valuable enquiries.”