New Zealand Made Clothing

New Zealand has earned a global reputation for producing some of the finest natural fibre clothing in the world. It’s a reputation built on generations of craftsmanship, ethical sourcing, innovation, and an uncompromising commitment to quality. At MKM Originals, being New Zealand made is not a marketing slogan — it is the foundation of everything we do.

Established in 1884, Manawatu Knitting Mills has been designing and manufacturing knitwear in New Zealand for over 140 years. Over that time, we have learnt a thing or two about working with natural fibres, adapting to change, and producing clothing that performs in real-world conditions. While many manufacturers have moved production offshore, MKM has remained proudly and resolutely New Zealand made — by choice.

When you choose New Zealand made clothing, you are supporting:

Ethical and transparent manufacturing
Locally sourced natural fibres
Skilled craftsmanship and quality control
Sustainable production practices
Clothing designed for longevity, not fast fashion

For MKM Originals, remaining New Zealand made ensures complete control over every stage of the process — from fibre selection through to the finished garment that our team can check before it goes out to the market.

Proudly Designed and Manufactured in New Zealand

All MKM Originals products are designed and manufactured at our headquarters in the Manawatu region of New Zealand. Our Head Office, knitting mill, distribution warehouse, and Outlet Store are all based on one site in Palmerston North. This close integration allows us to maintain exceptional quality standards and continuously refine our designs.

Unlike offshore manufacturing models, where production is separated by thousands of kilometres, our team works together under one roof. This means faster innovation, tighter quality control, and garments that truly reflect our values.

Every MKM garment is a product of local skill, local knowledge, and local pride.

A History of Innovation Since 1884

Manawatu Knitting Mills’ story mirrors New Zealand’s own journey from colony to nation. Since our establishment in 1884, a constant drive for innovation and adaptation has seen MKM navigate market changes, technological shifts, and evolving customer needs.

While other manufacturers chose to move offshore, MKM remained determined to stay a New Zealand business in every sense. Adapting without compromising has been the driving force behind our long-term success.

Today, MKM is a family-owned business with connections dating back over 30 years. We take pride in our innovation, our support of local industry and fibre, and — most importantly — our connection to the customers who trust us to deliver quality that lasts.

Locally Sourced Wool, Carefully Selected

New Zealand wool is world renowned for good reason. At MKM Originals, our wool is sourced locally from a variety of farms across New Zealand. We carefully select suppliers who demonstrate best practice throughout the procurement and processing of animal fibres.

All suppliers must comply with relevant legal legislation and requirements, including responsible, ethical, and humane practices. This commitment ensures that the fibres used in MKM garments meet both our performance standards and our ethical values.

By sourcing locally, we support New Zealand farming communities while maintaining traceability and quality throughout the supply chain.

Spinning the Yarn in New Zealand

Once sourced, our fibres are spun into premium yarns in partnership with Woolyarns, a respected New Zealand yarn manufacturer. Woolyarns successfully spins our wool into high-quality woollen spun yarns designed for performance and longevity.

All yarns are manufactured with human and environmental considerations in mind. No harmful chemical substances are present, and all yarns meet European Union REACH standards, ensuring safety and environmental responsibility.

This stage is critical — yarn quality directly impacts warmth, durability, and comfort. By keeping this process in New Zealand, MKM ensures consistency and reliability across every product range.

Manufacturing the Garment

Every MKM Originals product is manufactured in our knitting mill in Palmerston North. Our experienced, highly skilled team prides itself on craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Before any garment reaches the marketplace, it goes through a three-point quality check. This process ensures that fit, finish, and performance meet our standards — and yours.

The result is a finished garment that reflects the best of New Zealand manufacturing: durable, comfortable, functional, and built to last.

Natural Fibres and Sustainable Innovation

MKM Originals specialises in natural fibres that are 100% biodegradable and renewable. We are committed to addressing sustainability challenges within the fashion and textile industry through innovation and responsible production.

One example is ECO BLEND, an MKM Originals first. During yarn manufacturing, fibre fluff is typically discarded. In our Eco Blend, these fibres are collected and re-spun to create an entirely new yarn with exceptional properties.

Eco Blend turns production waste into a premium yarn that combines the best characteristics of its component fibres — proof that sustainability and performance can go hand in hand.

Performance-Driven Fibre Blends

Our New Zealand made clothing is built using carefully engineered fibre blends designed to suit different climates, activities, and levels of performance.

36.6 Double Layer System

A unique double layer knitting system helps maintain optimal body temperature (36.6°C). These high-performance garments are ideal for active and outdoor lifestyles and are manufactured using 100% New Zealand wool.

New Zealand Pure Wool & Eco Blend

Hardwearing and heavyweight for ultimate outdoor performance.

Outer: 100% NZ Pure Wool
Lining: 65% NZ Wool, 25% Possum, 10% Nylon

Possum & Polypropylene Blend

Durable, warm, and lightweight.

39% Polypropylene, 21% Possum, 34% Merino, 6% Nylon

Lambswool & Polypropylene Blend

Ideal for year-round use in varied conditions.

65% Lambswool, 35% Polypropylene

Eco Blend

25% Recycled Possum Fibre
60% Natural Fibres (Silk, Wool, Angora)
15% Nylon

Possum Merino

Lightweight, warm, pill-resistant, and soft.

Premium Blend: 70% Superfine Merino, 20% Possum, 10% Silk
Essential Blend: 60% Merino, 30% Possum, 10% Nylon

100% New Zealand Wool

Naturally UV resistant, flame retardant, moisture regulating, and resilient — ideal for year-round comfort.

Wool/Nylon Blend

Designed for hardwearing workwear applications.

65% Wool, 35% Nylon

100% Pure Merino

Ranging from 21–26 micron, used in Active and Classic Tees for comfort and warmth.

A True Mark of New Zealand Craftsmanship

Manawatu Knitting Mills proudly holds a Made in New Zealand licence, a true mark of homegrown quality and craftsmanship. For our customers, this represents authenticity, transparency, and trust.

When you choose MKM Originals, you’re not just buying clothing — you’re supporting New Zealand manufacturing, local fibres, skilled workers, and a company that has stood the test of time.

View our Men's Range here

View our Women's Collection

View our Kids Range