NEW ZEALAND WAX VESTA COMPANY.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 21019, 7 May 1930, Page 22

NEW ZEALAND WAX VESTA COMPANY.

A model factory of substantial dimensions, equipped with the most efficient machinery, and a capable staff are the outstanding features impressed on a visitor to the premises of the New 'Zealand Wax Vesta'Ccmpany in Caversham, where the well-known Royal and Plaid wax vestas bearing the “ Fern " brand are turned out to the number of millions daily. Matches are so essential in the life of the community that every effort has to be made to produce them at a-low price, and in this direction the company can claim that it is doing its part faithfully and well. . The factory is laid out in such a way that the maximum of efficiency is secured by a minimum of effort. New Zealand products figure very largely in the making of the matches, for no imported material is used if it can bo manufactured in the Dominion. The processes through which the ingredients have to go after the tapers are _ made by the mixing' of strands of cotton and stearine are. too numerous to mention.- It is sufficient to say that the machinery is so perfectly made that very little handling by the staff is required until the finished goods are packed up ready for transport. ■ The company employs an expert engineering staff, which has designed .and manufactured most of the machines, which carry out their work, not only of tfiaking the matches, but also the containers from start to finish, with almost uncanny accuracy and speed/ The most important part of a match is the head, and therefore special care has to be exercised in regard to 1 its composition. The deadly phosphorus, which has been replaced by easqui-sulphlde, which is quite as efficient, while presenting no dangers to those who handle it. The staff comprises about 50 males and , females. -The company, which was established 32 years ago, is noted for the . manner in which its employees are treated. Separate dining rooms and a tennis court ’ are amongst the provisions made for their comfort abd recreation.