Bennett Mirror & Glass Co Limited - Greerton

Three generations of proud family tradition and more than half a century of dedication to a revolutionary range of products sit behind the success story of Bennett Mirror Technologies today.

Os Bennett founded the business in 1949 in Christchurch, beginning the evolution that has lifted the company to international acclaim. Emerging from humble beginnings, Bennett Mirror Technologies Limited is now a major force in the highly specialised field of acrylic convex mirrors, both in New Zealand and worldwide. Os sparked the family's flair for innovation when he took flat mirrors and began to concentrate on a variety of treatments. A rotational kiln for bending glass for the lighting industry was built in 1962 and within a decade, he began exporting convex mirrors to Australia. A whole new world was about to open.

Dedicated to new technology, Bennetts developed their unique acrylic convex mirrors in 1976 to meet international demands. Bennett's technical skill soon set them apart from their competitors. This commitment to innovation and quality ensures that Bennetts will remain world leaders in mirror technology.

Alastair Bennett shares his father's dedication and drive. He joined Os straight from school, learning his craft on the factory floor and nurturing the family's pride for teamwork and commitment to innovation. He was on hand when his father boldly shipped the entire operation from the South Island to Tauranga in the North Island. When Os retired in 1980, Alastair became managing director and has steered the company to new levels by developing and expanding export markets.

International success was rewarded with an export commendation in 1990 by the Trade Development Board and again in 1994 when Bennett's won the prestigious Export Institute of New Zealand Exporter of the Year award for the Bay of Plenty.

After four years of engineering study, the third generation of Bennetts - Ben Bennett - has now joined the company full time to look after engineering design. His commitment will ensure national markets are fostered as Bennett Mirror Technologies grows and develops new products to meet market needs.

This innate pioneering spirit and pursuit of excellence has inspired three generations of Bennetts to continually seek innovative techniques and keep the company to the fore of mirror technology - now and into the future.