Bremworth Textile Pioneer Strengthens New Zealand Carpet Industry

A Hawke’s Bay Māori and Samoan dyehouse technician has become one of the first in New Zealand to achieve an advanced international qualification in textile colouration – strengthening the New Zealand carpet industry with world-class skills in sustainable colour technology.

Boosting the Future of the New Zealand Carpet Industry

Bremworth’s dyehouse technician, Niyah Garisau, has successfully completed the internationally respected Textile Coloration Certificate (TCC), issued by the UK-based Society of Dyers and Colourists. The two-year programme is widely regarded as one of the world’s most demanding training pathways for professional colourists, equipping candidates with expertise in dye chemistry, fibre science and sustainable colour application.

Garisau had previously earned the Foundation Textile Coloration Certificate (FTCC) in 2022. She undertook the TCC while working full-time shifts, enduring weekly commutes between Napier and Christchurch and delays caused by Cyclone Gabrielle. Despite these challenges, she graduated in 2025, showcasing determination and resilience.

Technical Expertise for Global Competitiveness

The qualification provides advanced capabilities in troubleshooting dye processes, ensuring colour consistency at scale, and applying best practice in low-impact dye chemistry. These skills directly contribute to New Zealand carpet industry productivity by minimising costly production errors and aligning with international sustainability standards.

“When I first stepped into the dyehouse, I was fascinated by what I saw,” Garisau says. “Late-night lectures with UK tutors were tough, but the knowledge has been invaluable. I’m proud to show other Māori and Pasifika women that world-class qualifications are within reach.”

From Factory Floor to Industry Leader

Garisau began at Bremworth in an entry-level role and has now worked in the dyehouse for seven years. She says completing the TCC has given her the confidence to mentor new trainees and step into leadership positions in the future. Her journey reflects how curiosity and persistence can turn into highly specialised expertise, contributing to both her personal career and the broader New Zealand carpet industry.

Bremworth Gains a Competitive Edge

Bremworth’s Dyehouse Manager, Grant Townend, says Garisau’s success is a milestone not only for the company but also for the country’s textile sector, where specialist training pathways have largely disappeared.

“There’s nothing like this available in New Zealand anymore. The skills Niyah brings in colour matching, dye application and fibre knowledge give us both risk mitigation and a genuine competitive edge,” he says.

Townend adds that the training exposed Garisau to global innovations in sustainable dye techniques, directly supporting Bremworth’s long-term environmental goals. “Colour may be subjective, but at scale, accuracy is critical. Having someone formally qualified at this level ensures Bremworth continues to lead in the New Zealand carpet industry,” he explains.

National Media Coverage

This achievement has been recognised across national media including NZ Farmers Weekly. The widespread coverage reflects the importance of advanced skills and sustainable practices to the future of New Zealand manufacturing.

Inspiring Future Generations

While several Bremworth staff completed the FTCC in 2022, Garisau was the only one to advance to the TCC, highlighting her technical ability and commitment. Her journey demonstrates how upskilling initiatives can future-proof the New Zealand carpet industry, helping it remain competitive on a global scale.

Impact PR on Driving Industry Leadership

As one of the top PR agencies New Zealand businesses turn to, we understand that stories like Garisau’s have value beyond the workplace. They showcase resilience, cultural pride and technical achievement that strengthen industry reputations. For companies in manufacturing, textiles and sustainability – such as Bremworth- sharing these milestones attracts new talent, builds trust with stakeholders and reinforces leadership positions in competitive markets. Impact PR has partnered with leading organisations across sectors to craft these narratives, achieving national and international coverage that shapes public perception and drives long-term growth in industries such as the New Zealand carpet industry.