About Checkmate
Precision Cutting Tools & Sharpening Experts
From humble beginnings in Rotorua to a nationwide network of workshops, we have built our reputation on craftsmanship, innovation, and reliability.
Every blade we make and sharpen carries the same promise: consistent performance, lasting quality, and support you can count on.
Our Journey
Founded in 1965, Checkmate began as a small sharpening workshop serving the local timber industry.
As New Zealand’s manufacturing and forestry sectors grew, so did we. We introduced TCT circular saw technology, developed diamond-tipped tooling, and continually invested in new machinery to set higher standards across the industry.
Over the decades, we have expanded to support customers throughout the country, combining advanced equipment with skilled hands and deep technical knowledge. What began as a local business has become one of New Zealand’s most trusted names in industrial blade technology.
Innovation & Technology
Innovation is at the heart of what we do. Our facilities feature advanced CNC grinding systems, precision measuring tools, and specialised equipment for saws, knives, and cutting tools of every specification.
By combining decades of practical experience with ongoing investment in technology, we make sure every blade, new or serviced, meets the highest standards for performance and safety.
Our in-house production capability allows us to deliver faster turnaround times, custom solutions, and consistent quality.
What We Do
Checkmate brings together world-class manufacturing and dependable servicing. We do not just supply cutting tools. We help industries run sharper, safer, and more efficiently.
Sharpening & Maintenance
Our sharpening and tool-care programmes help clients protect their investment and reduce downtime, ensuring every tool performs like new for longer.
Manufacturing & Supply
We design and build saws, knives, and industrial tooling to order, supplying products tailored to the needs of timber, forestry, and manufacturing operations throughout New Zealand.
Industries We Serve:
Timber processing
Manufacturing and engineerin
Forestry and sawmilling
Packaging and converting
Our Team & Values
Quality – every tool sharpened and tested to perform.
Reliability – consistent results, on time and on spec.
Innovation – staying ahead through continuous improvement.
Safety – maintaining best practice at every stage.
Customer focus – building long-term partnerships based on trust.
Since working with Checkmate we have achieved reliable saw performance, and with the quick turn around on saws ordered helps keep the saw shop and sawmill running smooth. Checkmate are a great company to deal with
Shane Semmens
RED STAG TIMBERS
Why Choose Us
With over four decades of proven performance, Checkmate is the partner of choice for businesses that cannot afford to compromise on quality.
We are known for precision engineering, dependable turnaround, and tools that go the distance.
We help reduce downtime, extend tool life, and support sustainable, efficient production. From our head office in Rotorua, Checkmate serves customers across New Zealand through a network of regional workshops and service partners.