South Island wins glory at forklift finals
Back for round two, the competition was bigger and better in 2025.
The course was set, forklifts ready and the atmosphere electric at Fonterra’s 2025 forklift final in Canterbury.
Eight of the Co-operative’s top forklift operators met at Fonterra’s Darfield Distribution Centre on Friday 5 September to compete in the second ever forklift competition.
The finalists earned their place through a series of regional competitions in August, with two winners selected from four regions, including the lower North Island, Waikato, Upper Central North Island and the South Island.
Fonterra has around 500 forklift operators across its manufacturing sites and distribution centres, whose skill and expertise ensure the Co-op’s dairy products move safely and efficiently around New Zealand and the world.
The competition recognises our operators’ high standards and daily commitment to doing things safely, while also encouraging some friendly regional rivalry.
Fonterra’s Director of Global Supply Chain, Santiago Aon, says the competition is an opportunity to celebrate the unsung heroes of Fonterra’s supply chain.
“The competition recognises our operators’ high standards and daily commitment to doing things safely, while also encouraging some friendly regional rivalry. Our forklift operators play a crucial role in our supply chain and make a huge contribution to the Co-op every day.”
After a close finish, the glory went to the South Island’s Wes Allen-Naoupu, representing Darfield and Joel Turner, representing Clandeboye Cool Stores.
The pair have won a trip to Australia to visit Fonterra’s forklift supplier, Linde, and learn about their latest innovations. Congratulations to all the finalists!