Gambol Pet Group has begun feasibility work on a pet food plant in Pōkeno, South Auckland. The Chinese firm registered Gambol Pet Food (New Zealand) Co in December and has identified land near Synlait’s dairy facility for potential development.
Gambol appoints leadership to oversee Pōkeno site study
The company has entered the feasibility stage for a South Auckland site after establishing Gambol Pet Food (New Zealand) Co in December. Leon Fung, also director at Synlait Milk and CEO of NIG Nutritionals, is leading the process. “China viewed New Zealand’s pet food industry as a premium market supplier,” Fung stated.
Earmarks Pōkeno site as part of expansion plan
The proposed plant in Pōkeno would add to the growing footprint of Chinese companies in New Zealand’s pet food industry. Peidi and Yantai already have established operations. Leon Fung said land in Pōkeno has been earmarked for the facility, although no timeline has been set.
China drives New Zealand’s growing role in pet food exports
China is now New Zealand’s second-largest pet food export market, accounting for 22.3% of exports, behind the US. With an ageing population and a rise in single-person households, pet ownership in urban China has skyrocketed—home to an estimated 70 million cats and 52 million dogs in 2024.
The demographic shift has helped expand China’s pet food market to US$37.5 billion in 2025, with projections of US$49 billion by 2030. The market presents a lucrative opportunity for international suppliers despite being “highly fragmented.”
Foreign investors continue placing high-stakes bets on NZ pet food sector
Foreign capital has poured into New Zealand’s pet food sector in recent years. KKR paid $277 million for Christchurch-based Natural Pet Food Group in 2023, which sells the K9 Natural and Feline Natural brands. However, the venture has faced challenges, reporting a $148.89 million loss in 2023, and a $29.94 million loss in 2024. The company cited “severe supply chain disruption” and changes to its China distribution strategy. Still, China remains a key contributor to earnings.
KKR also retains a 19% stake in Gambol, acquired in 2017, as part of its global push into the high-end pet food market. Hong Kong-based FountainVest, meanwhile, owns 97.15% of Ziwi Ltd, New Zealand’s largest pet food exporter.
Though the company reported losses and restructuring following Cyclone Gabrielle and exchange rate issues, a spokesperson stated: “We are committed to expanding our in-market presence in the US, China, Europe and Australia.”
Chinese pet food firms continue investing in New Zealand
Yantai and Peidi continue to invest in New Zealand’s pet food industry, with Yantai posted a $1.51 million loss linked to a revenue drop. Peidi recently completed a $60 million upgrade of its Taumarunui plant, though financial disclosures have not yet been made public.
“NZ still one of the better countries to invest in,” said Richard Brake, citing favourable trade conditions and high-quality protein supply.
New Zealand continues to attract global investment in pet food manufacturing. Gambol’s potential entry would follow similar moves by other Chinese firms, emphasising the country’s role in premium supply chains.