Award-winning UV technology approved for Regional Infrastructure Fund
Published: 6 June, 2025
After taking home three major titles at the New Zealand Hi-Tech Awards last year, UV technology leaders NovoLabs have been approved for a loan of up to $2.77 million from the Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF), says Kay Read, General Manager of Regions at Kānoa – Regional Economic Development & Investment Unit.
"This hi-tech start-up from Manawatū has innovative new UV disinfection technology of global significance, creating a disinfection solution for wastewater and liquid treatment processes in food production, dairy farming, and other industries. The RIF funding will support NovoLabs to upscale the manufacturing of their patented disinfection technology," says Read.
The Supercritical UV™ disinfection technology is a potential industry disruptor, presenting a cost-effective solution for water pollution issues across New Zealand. Using an innovative modular design, the system allows a thin film of low-clarity liquids to continuously flow at high speed as it’s exposed to very high UV radiation, capable of disinfecting liquids where traditional UV technology has limitations. NovoLabs installed the world’s largest Supercritical UV™ water treatment system of its kind at a beef processing plant in Southland, using ultraviolet light to remove E. Coli in the wastewater.
The RIF loan, coupled with $2.77 million co-investment from NovoLabs will up-scale its production facilities and equipment, and bolster inventory and pre-production of UV infrastructure units.
"Despite being relatively new, NovoLabs is already saving New Zealand money that would be spent on costly chemical pre-treatment. The funding will transform this regional manufacturer into a major exporter of UV technology, bringing significant growth to Manawatū," Read says.
"Advanced manufacturing and developing a high-performing workforce are both regional priorities for Manawatū, and NovoLabs outsources parts of its process to other regional businesses."
"Currently the only New Zealand manufacturer of Supercritical UV™ disinfection technology, the planned expansion of NovoLabs production means upscaling production will build resilience and boost local business as NovoLabs expands to meet demand."
"NovoLabs have implemented systems from Northland to Southland and have the potential to expand into international markets, bringing our country's innovations to the world stage and improving operations throughout New Zealand. It's a privilege to support our nation’s trailblazers."
More information
- The Regional Infrastructure Fund is a capital fund with the primary purpose of accelerating infrastructure projects, particularly with a focus on water storage, energy, and resilience, that will make a difference in the regions.
- Funding is approved in-principle and announced, after which contracts are negotiated. Some funding may depend on updated information as agreed in contract negotiation. Payments are made once agreed milestones are met. These are set as part of contract negotiations and differ from project to project.
- The NovoLabs project's total cost is $5.55 million. It is made up of:
- Up to $2.775 million loan through the Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF).
- $2.775 million in co-investment from NovoLabs.