Sustainable Paper And Packaging Solutions
BJ Ball is a leading supplier of innovative media to the printing industry for the paper, packaging, and communication sector in New Zealand. With over 100 years’ experience servicing a range of customers across various market sectors, we continue to support the printing and design industry.
As part of the BJ Ball Group, our values of sustainability and responsible business practice are evident with our commitment to our industry, our customers, the environment and our people. Our team of talented individuals coupled with innovative products, provide our customers with confidence for the future.
We have over 70 dedicated staff across our four branches in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Dunedin providing a nationwide service and expertise covering all areas of New Zealand. Auckland is home to our head office, where we manage operations, logistics and personnel.
Our Heritage
BJ Ball’s humble beginnings started in 1918 in Sydney, Australia, followed by a move to Auckland, New Zealand in 1921. From there followed ninety years of Trans-Tasman expansion and the introduction of a number of innovative products and services, setting BJ Ball as a market leader in Australasia.
In the mid-2000s the BJ Ball Group began a series of targeted acquisitions to increase distribution, particularly in the Australian market. This has since included the addition of Kirby International, Focus Paper and the CPI Group (Raleigh Paper, Boomerang Paper, ED Office Products and CPI Inks).
In 2007, Japan Pulp & Paper Co., Ltd. expanded its global footprint by acquiring BJ Ball and Ball & Doggett. As part of this global network, we both benefit from the expertise and resources of Japan Pulp & Paper, enabling us to deliver innovative and high-quality solutions to our customers across New Zealand and Australia.
Who are Japan Pulp & Paper? They are a global leader in the distribution of paper, pulp, and related products, with a diverse portfolio that spans over 20 countries. Founded in 1845, the company has grown to become a major player in the paper and packaging industry, known for its commitment to sustainability, innovation, and high-quality service. In addition to paper products, Japan Pulp & Paper also ventures into environmental solutions, contributing to the circular economy by promoting recycling and eco-friendly materials. Read more about them here.
A Brief History
1918
1921
1925
1930’s
1933
1939
1940s
1947
1950s
1956
1960s
1968
1970s
1980s
1988
1990s
2007
2009
2010
2011
2017
2019
1918
B.J Ball sets up a business as a paper merchant
1921
A branch of BJ Ball Australia was opened in Auckland
1925
Selwyn Robinson buys the New Zealand business and created BJ Ball (NZ) Ltd
1930’s
A collection of North American agencies was established, among them: Hammermill Paper Company, S.D Warren Standard Printing Papers and Fraser Company banks and bonds. Half of NZs newsprint supplies provided by BJ Ball from The Mersey Paper Company in Nova Scotia.
1933
Wellington branch established
1939
Whakatane Board Mills began operation, and BJ Ball appointed as distributor
1940s
The NZ government utilises Selwyn Robinson to negotiate paper supplies during the shortages of the war years.
1947
Christchurch branch established
1950s
The association with Tullis Russell Scotland begins; the twin wire range continues to grow with Ultra White, TR5, Ivorx and Trulux.
1956
Dunedin branch established
1960s
NZ Forest Products commenced production of uncoated fine paper in NZ. BJ Ball appointed a distributor. A long term association with Japan commences when BJ Ball introduced Finekote, Sunline and other Japanese qualities to NZ. BJ Ball aquires to prestigious Zanders range from Germany with Chromolux and the Ikono range.
1968
BJ Ball became a wholly owned subsidiary of NZ Forest Products Limited
1970s
High quality carbonless paper from Mitsubishi Japan is introduced. Pressure sensitive papers from Fasson made available. Yupo synthetic paper arrives from Japan. High quality designer grades from Simpson, USA commence, Teton and later Gainsborough.
1980s
Computerised order processing systems and inventory management systems are introduced, together with modern computerised warehousing and racking in Auckland. High quality art papers Royal Sword from KNP, Holland and Kestrel from Austria introduced. A premium corporate stationery paper, Strathmore Writing with 25% cotton is launched. BJ Ball becomes a wholly owned subsidiary of Elders Reources NZFP Limited. Licence and tariff system in NZ is radically restructured.
1988
Trading name changed to BJ Ball Papers. New logo with paper dart launched, to symbolise the link with paper and to convey speed and efficiency.
1990s
Sumo Coated from Hansol introduced. Novatech introduced from UPM Kymmene. BJ Ball won at the Marketing Awards with Novatech branding exercise.
2007
BJ Ball to acquire CPI and Reel Papers
2009
The new building is built on Hugo Johnstone Drive in Penrose, Auckland and still remains as BJ Ball’s Head Office.
2010
BJ Ball bought Focus Paper Australia
2011
BJ Ball bought CPI Australia
2017
Japan Pulp & Paper buys 51% of BJ Ball and KW Doggett, the companies merge
2019
Japan Pulp & Paper gains full acquistion BJ Ball and KW Doggett
