Juken mill closure sparks fears of job losses across Kaitāia
Juken New Zealand is closing its Northland Mill in Kaitāia on August 21, leading to concerns about a 'domino effect' of job losses in the region. Employees fear the town's economy will suffer significantly due to the loss of a major employer.
Why it matters
The closure highlights the economic vulnerability of rural towns dependent on single-industry manufacturing.
Juken New Zealand has confirmed it will close Northland Mill in Kaitāia. Photo / Yolisa Tswanya
A long-serving Juken New Zealand employee fears the closure of the Northland mill is just the beginning for Kaitāia, warning that the Far North town could face a “domino effect” of job losses and business closures.
The employee, who has worked at the mill for more than 20 years and spoke to The Northland Age on the condition of anonymity, said workers were worried about their own futures as well as that of the town.
“I think Kaitāia itself is slowly going to shut down,” he said.
“If we are honest with ourselves, the mills are a big employer and a big cash cow when it comes to workers coming to spend their money in town.”
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