Fairfax Industries Media

The Latest August/September Action 2025!

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 19:06:41 Z

Fresh Builds and Big Wheels

It’s been an action-packed month at Fairfax and Freighter, with bold new builds rolling off the line and turning heads across the country.

Leading the charge is the brand-new Fairfax Premiere 15.6m trailer for CoolTranz, complete with a Carrier Vector HE19MT unit expertly installed by our Transcold team. Debuting at the thl Leadership Conference at Auckland’s Due Drop Arena, this impressive build showcased the innovation and precision that define Fairfax trailers. Keep an eye out, you might just see it on the road!

Another standout this month is the 15.1m Signature Quad for Northchill, a true powerhouse featuring a tough hoist-rated alloy floor, smooth ROR axles, a 28-pallet double loader system, a custom-painted chassis, and a smart tyre inflation system. It’s everything a modern fleet could ask for: strength, performance, and style.

And over at Linfox, trailer number three hit the road wrapped in bold Tegel-themed graphics, a perfect example of the creative, client-focused designs our team delivers.

Behind every build is a focus on safety, quality, and teamwork, ensuring every trailer that leaves our factory meets the highest standards. As we power into the final stretch of the year, the momentum is strong, and there’s plenty more to come.

Fairfax and Freighter continue to prove what’s possible when expertise meets innovation, one trailer at a time.

👉 Read the full story in our latest newsletter

The Latest July Action 2025!

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 22:54:46 Z

July brought a burst of colour and capability to Fairfax. The head-turning Premiere trailer rolled out in a citrus-inspired livery, delivering both style and high-performance cooling from paddock to plate.

We also delivered a high-spec Signature semi-trailer for TDJ Trucking, fitted with a Carrier Vector 1950MT unit by the experts at Transcold, plus Signature builds for Linfox and Tegel with Carrier Vector HE 19 MT refrigeration.

Every build is proof of our commitment to precision, reliability, and design that stands out on the road.

Click here to read the full newsletter!

The Latest Mid-Year Action 2025!

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 23:09:27 Z

Driving Innovation, One Trailer at a Time

From zero-emissions breakthroughs to factory-first milestones, Fairfax has kicked off 2025 in high gear. Our second all-electric ZE trailer hit the road, and Fieldays 2025, turning heads and proving that sustainable cold chain transport is here to stay. Add in bold new builds, upgraded manufacturing, and a refreshed focus on safety, and it’s clear we’re not just keeping up, we’re leading the way.

👉 Check out the full Action newsletter and see what’s powering our momentum into the second half of the year.

In The Loop - Autumn 2025!

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 19:50:31 Z

Second-ever Fairfax ZE trailer hits the road! First stop: Fieldays 2025! Fairfax has proudly completed its second-ever Zero Emissions (ZE) electric, refrigerated trailer, this time for Big Chill Distribution, and it’s already making an impact. Built with sustainability front and centre, the ZE trailer features fully electric refrigeration technology, high-performance insulation, and a robust battery system. It delivers the same cooling power expected of Fairfax’s trailers, but without the tailpipe emissions.

First Mould Completed in Fairfax's Upgraded Workshop! Fairfax has reached a key milestone, with the first mould successfully completed at the newly upgraded moulding workshop. Following final inspection and sign-off, operations officially resumed on Tuesday 22 May. The team has quickly ramped up production, with all three moulds now in operation, semi-trailers are underway in Moulds 1 and 2, and a truck body is in progress in Mould 3.

Action Group Takes Fieldays 2025! What a four days! Fieldays 2025 was an incredible opportunity for the Action Group to showcase innovation across the board, from future-focused freight to electric motorhomes and cutting-edge commercial gear. Our site was humming all week, with a prime spot right next to Makita drawing thousands of visitors, customers, and industry mates in for a closer look. Across four seasons of classic Kiwi weather, the energy never dropped.

Read the full newsletter here!

The Latest April Action 2025!

Thu, 15 May 2025 21:33:54 Z

Fairfax Mould Shop - Back in Action!

The Fairfax moulding workshop is back in action, with new equipment, upgraded safety, and the first 2025 shells rolling out by month’s end. Dive in to discover more!

We're Doing Fieldays Bigger than Ever for 2025!

This year, we’re not just heading to Fieldays, we’re going bigger than ever before! With our largest site yet, we’re bringing a line-up that showcases the best of what we do across transport, innovation, and sustainability.

Read the full newsletter here:

Fairfax – In The Loop This Summer

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 19:37:18 Z

The latest edition of In The Loop has arrived – and it’s full of stories that show what makes Fairfax trailers stand out.

In this issue, we check in with Kooner Transport as they expand their fleet with fresh Fairfax builds, and we catch up with NorthChill to hear how their trailers are performing in the real world.

Plus, find out why more operators are choosing Fairfax bonded body builds – delivering strength, efficiency, and standout durability on the road.

Check it out here and stay in the loop.

Welcome to our brand new newsletter!

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 19:20:48 Z

THE MAGIC BEHIND THE FAIRFAX ZE

At Fairfax, the journey to create the ZE was a deep dive into cutting-edge technology, where every component was scrutinised and perfected to deliver New Zealand’s first all-electric refrigerated trailer. Our team partnered closely with Transcold and Freighter NZ to supply technology from Carrier to integrate state-of-the-art refrigeration systems that ensure consistent, emissions-free cooling on the road. The Fairfax ZE embodies a breakthrough in sustainable transport, reflecting our commitment to pioneering a future where advanced technology meets zero emissions. Discover the innovation behind the Fairfax ZE – a trailer that’s as high-performing as it is environmentally responsible.

FAIRFAX SIGNATURE: PROVEN PERFORMANCE

The Fairfax Signature Series continues to demonstrate its dynamic and innovative spirit in the New Zealand transport industry, setting the standard for refrigerated linehaul needs. With a commitment to excellence, our Signature trailers are built with thermally efficient panels and enhanced stability, featuring New Zealand-manufactured chassis that cater
specifically to local conditions.

NEW TRAILER FOR NORTHLAND CARRIERS

Northland Carriers see an exciting new addition to their fleet: a state-of-the-art 5-axle full trailer, pulled by a Fairfax Premiere truck unit. This robust combination is set to enhance their Northland operations, providing increased capacity, durability, and efficiency.

Discover more about these stories and explore our latest innovative products for this month by clicking here.

Sign up for our newsletter here!

The Latest September Action! Action Newsletter!

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 21:00:53 Z

FAIRFAX SIGNATURE ZE MAKING WAVES ON THE ROAD

As the busy holiday season approaches, the Fairfax and Freighter teams are working hard to get new units out the door. One standout among them is the innovative Fairfax Signature - eCool semi-trailer, now in operation for FSNI. With 0% fridge emissions and impressively low noise emissions at 60dB(A), this unit is ticking all the boxes. Its environmentally friendly design reflects a growing focus on reducing impact on Papatuanuku, while still delivering exceptional performance. The ZE’s success signals positive change in the market, with plenty of interest rolling in.

FINISHING TOUCHES ON BIG CHILL’S LATEST FLEET ADDITION

Excitement is building as the Fairfax team applies the final touches to the latest Big Chill Signature body. This stateof-the-art refrigerated unit is almost ready to hit the road, ensuring temperature-sensitive goods are transported efficiently and safely across New Zealand. Meanwhile, Singh Carriers’ newest five-axle pull trailer is also nearing completion, with the truck soon to follow. These highquality builds demonstrate the dedication of both the Fairfax and Freighter teams.

Click here to read the full newsletter

Fairfax Unveils First Fully Autonomous, All-Electric Refrigerated Trailer System

Thu, 22 Aug 2024 20:06:26 Z

Fairfax is thrilled to announce a groundbreaking achievement in the logistics industry: the first fully autonomous, all-electric, engineless refrigerated trailer. This innovative solution is set to transform the way goods are transported across the country while significantly reducing environmental impact.

The vision of a future where trucks deliver fresh produce without producing harmful emissions is now a reality thanks to the Fairfax ZE (Zero Emissions) by combining cutting-edge technology from Transcold, Carrier and SAF-Holland to produce this NZ first. Fairfax has created a game-changing trailer that is not only environmentally friendly but also highly efficient.

“We are incredibly excited to introduce this revolutionary technology to New Zealand,” said Chris Devoy, CEO of Action. “This is a major step forward in our journey towards a zero-emissions future and demonstrates our dedication to sustainable logistics.”

The heart of the Fairfax ZE is its all-electric eCool refrigeration system by Carrier, powered by a revolutionary SAF-Holland electric axle. This innovative design supplied by Transcold, eliminates the need for a traditional diesel engine, resulting in zero tailpipe emissions and reduced energy consumption in standby mode.

The idea for this groundbreaking technology originated from Action Group engineer Edd Collins. "I was captivated by the potential of combining an electric generation axle with an electric refrigeration unit," said Collins. "It's incredibly rewarding to see our vision become a reality, and I believe this project will set a new standard for efficient and sustainable heavy transport."

“Partnering with Fairfax on this project has been a truly inspiring experience,” said Brad Jackson Transpecs Product Sales Manager for SAF Holland. “Our advanced axle technology, combined with Fairfax’s expertise, has created a solution that sets a new standard for sustainable transport.”

Fairfax envisions a future where the ZE trailer is integrated into a zero-emission truck, further reducing emissions and advancing sustainable transport. While the company focuses on their new Signature ZE trailer innovation, it is committed to supporting the development of a comprehensive zero-emission transportation system.

All New Signature Series Trailer

Sun, 16 Jun 2024 23:05:11 Z

Our first Platinum Motorhome is in the works! Get a sneak peek here 😳

Mon, 08 May 2023 03:49:25 Z

OUR FIVE YEAR SUSTAINABILITY PLAN

This week, we are excited to have launched our Five Year Sustainability Plan, a long-term plan for looking after Papatuānuku at Action. It involves four primary areas of work – reducing our emissions, designing out waste, leading our community and promoting wellbeing. We look forward to getting the team involved in many projects, including more waste diversion streams, electrification of our fleet and integrating new sustainable materials into our products. Thanks to the many incredible people getting behind and supporting this important kaupapa.

FIRST MERCEDES PLATINUM BUILD

Our team is hard at work on the first build of the Mercedes Platinum, with extensive modifications and improvements aimed at enhancing the user experience, improving fit and finish, reducing cost and complexity, and increasing standardisation.

We’re working together to improve the design and engineering for a better-fitting Platinum Luton and a universal Cascade and Platinum shower design (currently still under development). Check out these stunning renders of the Platinum Luton and its first assembled fit!

Click Here To Read The Full Newsletter

YOUR CHRISTMAS ACTION, RIGHT HERE.

Thu, 15 Dec 2022 21:39:52 Z

THE 4X4 SEVA SPRINTER AMBULANCE

Action Manufacturings’ joint venture with SEVA celebrates eight years in 2022 and continues to go from strength to strength with new orders from QAS received this week, making 2022/23 our highest production year yet!

“Thank you to everyone involved in making this a success, and Merry Christmas, SEVA.” - Chris

ALBANY | ONE CHAPTER CLOSES, ANOTHER OPENS

November kicked off with everyone determined to push production out and hit our targets. The team has been hard at work, from shipping high volumes of containers to Australia and packing up the Albany site for relocation to Hamilton, with only one last push to go during the next couple of weeks.

To commemorate, Albany threw a final Christmas get-together at the start of December to celebrate the year, its achievements and what a remarkable team we have.

We want to thank our incredible team for their hard work and dedication at Action Albany. You have all impacted us, and your commitment has not gone unnoticed. We wish everyone the best for the future and hope you have a safe and special Christmas spent with family and friends.

Click Here To Read The Full Newsletter

THE LATEST OCTOBER ACTION!

Tue, 08 Nov 2022 03:05:20 Z

MOTORHOMES RETAIL WORKSHOP

This month, the team and thl hosted a workshop in Hamilton with the Platinum, Cascade 2+1 and Voyager motorhomes all on show. thl and Action members reviewed aspects of the motorhome models identifying characteristics for each retail model. We pinpointed ideas under themes to...

FAIRFAX SIGNATURE SERIES

Meet the new Signature Trailer. The design incorporates our learnings from years of research and development in the insulated transport space. It is constructed out of Omni-Panel, which has superior insulation and strength, as well as significant changes to the design exterior of the trailer...

To read the full newsletter click here...

THE LATEST SEPTEMBER ACTION!

Sun, 09 Oct 2022 21:08:26 Z

NEW ST. JOHN AMBULANCE DESIGN

Hamilton has completed their first St John ambulance for the new fleet this month. The design will continue to be applied to all future St. John builds. Seeing the Hamilton team working hard and keeping pace with the increase in motorhomes and specialist vehicle builds, has been great.

ONWARDS AND UPWARDS!

The team have been working hard on the two Freighter b-Trains collected by Pukekohe Hiab Transport (PHT) this month. Looking sharp; excellent work team! PHT has been a long-term customer since 2013. We wish PHT every success in their daily operations and with their latest additions

“It is a pleasure to deal with a team that listens to our requirements, and after purchasing chiller trailers and step deck flat deck quads, it was a no-brainer to stay with a brand that we are happy with.” - Craig Morris (Owner of Pukekohe Hiab Transport)

Click Here To Read The Full Newsletter

FAIRFAX INDUSTRIES NEW AND IMPROVED TRAILER SERIES

Wed, 28 Sep 2022 19:24:30 Z

The new expansion adds to New Zealand’s growing network of locally manufactured goods and supports the economy by providing jobs and generating further customers.

Action Manufacturing has the largest range of locally manufactured and imported rigid bodies/trailers. With four manufacturing sites (two in Hamilton) and (two in Auckland), Action Manufacturing’s capacity to supply customers with units on time and in specification, has significantly increased. Hamilton’s sites have expanded due to the steelworkers moving their facility to Forman Road, Te Rapa. As well as, an increased capacity for Action Manufacturing trucks and trailer servicing.

Spartan Road Takanini, Great South Road Takanini, Forman Road Te Rapa Hamilton, and Washbournes Road Wigram Christchurch, proudly wave the Action Manufacturing service banner. They are ready to help customers with repairs and maintenance.

'ACTION HAS THE LARGEST COMPANY-OWNED MANUFACTURING SERVICE NETWORK IN NEW ZEALAND'

With the family getting bigger, Action Manufacturing has placed the right people in...

To read the full article click here...

THE LATEST AUGUST ACTION!

Thu, 08 Sep 2022 01:25:08 Z

OUR SUSTAINABILITY JOURNEY - ACTION OMNIPANEL

Action’s Omnipanel fibreglass is uniquely durable. Made from styrofoam sandwiched between fibreglass, it is stronger, lighter and has water resistance and thermal qualities beyond anything else on the market. Moreover, the floors are fully sealed to prevent moisture or dust from compromising the vehicle’s integrity. This allows Action Motorhomes to have an extended lifespan of up to 50 years. Durability is the most sustainable option there is, However, fibreglass is not easily reprocessed or recycled as a composite material, although we are taking steps to reduce our waste.

Compare our 2016 Platinum (6-birth motorhome) to our redesigned 2022 Motorhome. We have reduced moulded external fibreglass by 68.5%, that’s 260kg down to 83 kg. With the shower included, we have reduced the total moulded fibreglass by a whopping 60% since 2016. That’s 304.5kg down to 122.5kg! This is due to replacing fibreglass trim with aluminium and alloy extrusion around the outside of the motorhome.

We are on a clear path at Action, committed to becoming a future-fit business by reducing our waste, emissions and finding sustainable solutions so that we can be the best version of ourselves for our customers.

To read the full newsletter click here...

Action Manufacturing Group Purchase MaxiTRANS New Zealand Operations

Sun, 21 Aug 2022 23:24:09 Z

MaxiTRANS NZ is now renamed Freighter and will continue to operate business as usual. As a result, Australian Trailer Solutions Group (ATSG) has withdrawn the MaxiCUBE products from the NZ Market. However, Action has agreed to continue to provide service and support for MaxiCUBE products aftermarket, and will complete all existing orders.

The new expansion adds to New Zealand's growing network of locally manufactured goods, and supports the economy by providing jobs and generating further customers.

"The new purchase will extend our product range and offer general transport services, utilising our existing skill set, design thinking and resources." - CEO Chris Devoy.

Action Manufacturing has the largest range of locally manufactured and imported rigid bodies/trailers with operations in Hamilton, Auckland, and Christchurch.

The new business follows Action's acquisition of Fairfax Industries in 2018, which is a refrigerated truck body and trailer manufacturer.

Action Manufacturing Group now incorporate, Freighter alongside Fairfax Industries, Recreational and Specialised Vehicles.

Action will be developing a new range of Fairfax products as a result of the acquisition of MaxiTRANS, which will complement their uniquely moulded trailer products.

These will include:

• Fairfax Premier Series

• Fairfax Signature Series

• Fairfax Evo Series

We are pleased to welcome Freighter to the Action team.

Click here to follow Freighter...

The Latest Action!

Tue, 12 Jul 2022 02:11:45 Z

Did you know we produce monthly company newsletters that are full of exclusive behind the scene details? To view our latest edition, follow the link 👉 https://mailchi.mp/9be22c2f8e5e/the-latest-action-16298135

TRUCK BODIES AVAILABLE RIGHT NOW!

Mon, 30 May 2022 03:13:41 Z

Designed For You.

Sold assembled and fitted to your truck choice, with multiple lengths available. We've got you covered if you are looking for a turn-key solution. Our bodies are compatible with any fridge motor, with the ability to install a tail lift. Get in touch with Craig today on 027 289 0282

Fairfax body used on NZ’s first 100% electric refrigerated logistics truck

Tue, 30 Jun 2020 02:07:58 Z

Fairfax body used on NZ’s first 100% electric refrigerated logistics truck

Fairfax are proud to have partnered with Foodstuffs and the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) to build New Zealand’s 1st electric powered refrigerated truck.

With EECA’s backing, Foodstuffs pulled together a brains trust of some of the country’s brightest and best transport, electrical and refrigeration engineers to convert the standard Isuzu FVY, 24 tonne, 6 wheel diesel truck to be 100% electric powered.

Fairfax were tasked to provide one of their high quality bodies, with the strength and thermal properties to exceed the needs of refrigerated delivery trucks.

Fairfax customer experience manager Craig van der Nagel said the body offers a low tare weight, recessed load restraint tracks and high density polyurethane insulation which is ideal for Foodstuffs delivery needs.

“Everything on the truck, including the fridge and tail-lift, is powered by electricity - it is almost silent!”

“We completed work on the body just before New Zealand went into lockdown for Covid-19. The truck was then handed over for signwriting.”

The electric truck will operate from the Foodstuffs Distribution Centre in Grenada Wellington under the stewardship of Foodstuffs North Island Transport.

After extensive testing and driver training, the electric truck recently set out on its first official delivery run to New World Miramar, a 60 km round trip. With a range of between 150 and 200 km and capable of transporting 14 pallets of product at temperatures as low as minus 15 degrees centigrade, the truck completed its inaugural journey with ease.

Fairfax director Chris Devoy said the increasing importance, and commitments, of reducing emissions presents a huge opportunity for innovators. Our team relishes the opportunities and challenges these projects bring.

Fairfax moves to join partner Action in Hamilton

Wed, 13 May 2020 04:08:39 Z

Fairfax moves to join partner Action in Hamilton

Two manufacturing brands are joining forces to operate out of a new production facility at 32 Kaimiro Street in Te Rapa.

After more than 40 years of operating from Great South Road in Auckland, Fairfax Industries is moving its manufacturing to join Hamilton-based partner Action.

The new shared facility allows the two companies to team up, share knowledge and utilise resources to meet the needs of a rapidly-evolving transport industry.

A showroom has been purpose-built at the site to showcase vehicles, welcome customers for factory tours and host design consultations over a cup of coffee. An official opening is in the pipeline when physical distancing restrictions ease.

The Fairfax site in Auckland will remain operating and will benefit from an increased repairs capacity.

Action purchased Fairfax in 2018 with a vision to share the learnings and capabilities between two like-minded companies operating at different ends of the transport sector.

Action is a fast-growing industry leader, producing specialised light commercial vehicles, with Fairfax producing its unique, frameless truck bodies for the heavy commercial market since 1971.

Fairfax customer experience manager Craig van der Nagel said the growing synergy between the two companies ensures they are well-placed to deliver solutions that increase New Zealanders access to essential goods.

“We are now offering a huge range of optimised delivery vehicles for both dry and temperature controlled goods. From, utes, vans, and courier vehicles, to scratch-built bodies - sized from 2m to 15.7m. We work with our customers to tailor vehicles to their exact needs.”

Action director Chris Devoy said the move is an opportunity for the two companies to directly collaborate on projects.

“Fairfax has a proven reputation for reliability and durability and Action is design-led, producing vehicles for users with high expectations around safety, mobility, functionality and aesthetics,” Devoy said.

“The importance of getting goods to market reliably and cost effectively has always been essential to keep the New Zealand economy moving. When lockdown restrictions were eased and delivery demand surged, we could see many ‘pain points’ come to light.”

“Our teams are accustomed to rising to any challenge and throughout New Zealand’s lockdown didn’t stop developing innovative solutions. We are now equipped with a huge range of solutions ready to go for delivery providers.”

Read the story here

INNOVATIVE B-TRAIN HITS THE ROAD

Fri, 11 Nov 2016 23:25:25 Z

Click here to see the full article as published in New Zealand TRUCKBODY and TRAILER

B-Train Trailers Load in One Movement

CANTERBURY TRANSPORT OPERATOR KERRY INNS’ new B-train has trailers that can be driven together and loaded as one, using a Phantom loader that drives through the unit.

Work began on the trailers in May and they were handed over in late August to owners Kerry and his wife Traci who operate K & T Trucking at Rolleston, just south of Christchurch.

The load-through B-train is used by the Goodman Fielder contractor to deliver fresh milk to Nelson, and went into service on September 1. The hard-sided trailers have alloy floors rated for forklifts and the custom-built Phantom loader, and are fitted with American made insulated Whiting roller doors marketed in New Zealand by Structurflex.

One roller door is fitted to the front of the rear trailer and the other is at the front of the first trailer.

To push the trailers together for loading, the sliding fifth wheel on the first trailer air release is activated, the manual brakes are applied on the rear trailer and the truck backs the first trailer till the rubber bump stops on the trailers touch.

When the trailers are pushed together, a fold-down floor section bridges the gap between the front and rear trailers so the cargo can be loaded in one single movement from the barn-style rear freight doors. “It means you can back up to the dock just once without needing to split the unit and back each trailer individually,” says Michael Carpenter, the managing director of Fairfax industries which built the two trailers.

Read More in the full article as published in New Zealand TRUCKBODY and TRAILER