Manawatū’s distribution and logistics sector is doing more than moving goods, it’s helping drive regional growth at scale. The ‘Distribution and Logistics Sector Profile’, prepared by Palmerston North City Council reveals the sector contributes $898 million to regional GDP, supports 6,800+ jobs, and has grown faster than the national average over the long term.

What’s driving that growth is a location advantage few regions can match. Manawatū connects road, rail and air, and with momentum building through Te Utanganui, the Central New Zealand Distribution Hub, the region continues to attract major investment and strengthen its role in the national freight and supply chain network.

Standout insights from the report:

Investment in industrial and storage buildings increased 11-fold in our region from 2000 to 2024, more than double the national average.
103.5% GDP growth in the sector since 2000, which outpaced the 72.9% increase nationally.
Every $1 generated by the sector creates an additional $0.71 across the wider economy.

Whether you’re a business, investor, or stakeholder, this report gives a clear view of where the region is heading and why Manawatū continues to go from strength to strength.

Read the full report and explore the findings