A Christchurch manufacturing site is set to close after Heinz Wattie’s confirmed sweeping changes to its New Zealand operations, with about 300 jobs affected nationwide.

The company said it will shut its frozen vegetable factory in Christchurch, along with sites in Dunedin and Auckland, and frozen packing lines in Hastings.

The move will see Heinz Wattie’s exit its frozen vegetables, coffee, and dips businesses.

Heinz Wattie’s Managing Director Andrew Donegan said the decision followed a consultation process with staff and was necessary to secure the company’s future.

“We appreciated the open and thoughtful dialogue during the consultation process. After careful consideration and analysis of proposed suggestions, we have reached the conclusion that closing these sites and exiting these categories is the only way forward for the long-term viability of the business. While change is needed, this is an incredibly difficult time for our employees and business,” Donegan said.

The closures will be phased over the course of the year, with final job loss numbers still to be confirmed as redeployment options are explored.

“The majority of those impacted are long-term experienced and skilled employees who would be sought-after candidates for many employers,” Donegan said.

The company said support would be provided to affected workers, including redundancy packages, counselling, and career transition services.

In Hastings, almost 50 workers from frozen packing lines are expected to be redeployed, with some retrained to remain within the business.

Heinz Wattie’s said it will continue to employ more than 1,200 people across New Zealand, with its Hawke’s Bay operations remaining central to production.

The company said it would continue manufacturing more than 800 products and exporting to markets including Australia, Japan, and the Pacific.

The decision follows what the company described as ongoing pressure on the manufacturing sector, including rising costs for raw materials, energy, and logistics, alongside declining sales volumes.

Closure timelines are expected to be confirmed by the end of April.