Innovator since day one
Howick began in 1978, when Keith and Bruce Coubray set up a small engineering workshop in east Auckland. They were problem solvers, building one-off machines to handle tough jobs that others could not. That "take it on" attitude has never changed. It still drives the business today.
As demand grew, the focus shifted to roll-forming technology for light gauge steel framing. Howick has delivered key breakthroughs in this space:
● true load-bearing joints for multi-level construction
● unique fold-out ‘tab’ connectors and swaged end in steel joist profile for easy and flush connection
● telescopic framing that can be compressed and expanded to fit internal spaces that are never square
● roll-formed structural / portal framing, and more.
These advances have lifted the bar for roll-forming worldwide.
Today, Bruce’s sons Nick and Hamish Coubray lead the company with the same clear focus: build precise, reliable machines in New Zealand, keep R&D close to the factory floor, and learn with our customers and partners. Through real projects, long-term support and events like STEEL HORIZONS, Howick plays an active role in shaping the growth of modern steel construction.
2024
TAMPA 2024 cements STEEL HORIZONS as an event not to be missed on the global construction calendar.
2021
Howick is recognised by TIN (Technology Investment Network) as one of the top 10 Supreme Scale-Ups, based on revenue growth in the past year.
2020
Howick launches its best and most forward-thinking product yet, the X-TENDA 3600™, which promises to transform interior framing
2019
Howick wins ExportNZ Best Medium Business Award, recognising Howick’s role in the automation and future of the global building industry.
2017
Installed 200kN universal testing machine to increase R&D capabilities and product testing
2016
Installed new CNC manufacturing equipment to meet production and R&D growth
2015
First Howick framing on-site manufacture trailer
2015
Introduction of the FRAMA machine Convertible Series
2013
Introduction of the FRAMA range of framing machines
2012
Howick secures Speedfloor partnership with major Indian manufacturer
2012
Howick holds second International Innovation Conference
2011
Howick receives Westpac Award for Excellence in Exporting
2011
Howick recognised by TIN100 as one of NZ’s Top 10 Hot Emerging Companies
2011
Howick receives NZ Metal Industry Innovation Award
2010
Howick holds first International Innovation Conference
2009
Howick designs and builds H400 truss machine
2008
Designed and built H600 floor joist machine
2007
Howick opens sales and support office in the United Kingdom
2006
Introduction of Windows based open language controller (CSV)
2004
First mobile factory operates in Hawaii
2003
Developed end-bearing detail that opened the opportunity for high rise LGSF buildings
2003
Developed innovative window well corrugator for Canada that formed and processed the final product
2003
Howick opens new research and development facility for rollfoming services
2002
Launched second generation H500 model steel framing machine
2000
Launched second generation H300 model steel framing machine
1999
Designed and built Waterjet Beamline
1998
Designed and built first Speedfloor machine
1997
Designed and built compact steel framing machine
1996
Designed and built dual raft steel framing machine
1995
Developed automated garage door production line allowing for custom door size manufacture
1994
Designed and built 30 seater bike for FADE
1993
Built a 12 stand custom multi-section Rollformer 1993
1987
Produced a refrigeration tube bender machine for Fisher & Paykel
1986
Extended Howick factory
1978
Keith and Bruce Coubray start Howick Engineering