LDX is proud to support Fonterra in recognising the skill, precision, and dedication that keep its supply chain moving safely every day.
As the exclusive distributor of Linde Material Handling equipment in New Zealand, LDX is in charge of managing Fonterra’s extensive material handling fleet, ensuring every forklift is maintained to the highest performance and safety standards.
This commitment to excellence was on full display at Fonterra’s 2025 Forklift Finals, held at their Darfield Distribution Centre in Canterbury on Friday, 5 September.
Back for its second year, the competition saw eight of Fonterra’s top forklift operators go head-to-head through a series of precision-based challenges using Linde forklifts. Finalists representing regions across the country, from the Lower North Island and Waikato to the Upper Central North Island and South Island, competed for the top spot. Each finalist had earned their place through earlier regional rounds in August, showcasing the talent and safety awareness of Fonterra’s forklift operators.
Fonterra’s Director of Global Supply Chain, Santiago Aon, described the event as a celebration of the “unsung heroes” of the Co-op’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 tight contest, the South Island team claimed victory, with Wes Allen-Naoupu (Darfield) and Joel Turner (Clandeboye Cool Stores) taking the top prize of an exclusive trip to Australia to visit Linde Material Handling, Fonterra’s forklift supplier, where they’ll get a firsthand look at the latest in material handling innovation and technology.
The partnership between Fonterra and LDX reflects a shared commitment to operator safety, productivity, and continuous improvement. With Linde’s advanced forklift technology and LDX’s nationwide service expertise, Fonterra’s operators can perform at their best, every day.
Congratulations to all the 2025 finalists, and especially to Wes and Joel for bringing home the trophy!
