The MTE Group of Companies was established in Hamilton, New Zealand, in 1973 by Managing Director Robin Ratcliffe and his wife, Colleen. Initially operating as Modern Transport Engineers Limited, the group focused on manufacturing heavy transport trailers from leased premises in
Te Rapa, Hamilton. Over the years, the company has grown to become an industry leader in the transport sector, employing over 450 staff and exporting trailers across Australasia. With an annual turnover exceeding 150 million, the MTE Group has significantly expanded its offerings. Recently, the group has diversified into truck sales, hire, equipment sales and hire, and technical services. In 1992, Robin and Colleen were joined in business by their two sons, Michael and Zane. Today, various family members contribute to the group’s ongoing success. As of 2024, two sons, three grandchildren, and Robin’s younger brother are actively involved in the Modern Transport Group, working alongside Robin and Colleen to carry forward the family’s proud legacy and vision for future growth.
The experience of the MTE Group is reflected in the quality of its products. In 2001, the group received recognition in the New Zealand Parliament for its outstanding export efforts. Operating on a global scale, the MTE Group competes with some of the largest manufacturers
Experience & Location worldwide. The group’s modern facility in Te Rapa, Hamilton, features a testing road, bulk warehousing, and manufacturing capabilities, with additional locations in Auckland, Rotorua, Tokoroa, Christchurch, and Brisbane.
Significant Milestones
The Leading Manufacturer of Heavy Haulage Trailers
Modern Transport Engineers has played an integral role in the Group. The Groups success story started with the creation of the first 30 tonne transporter in 1975, the first 3 Axle tilt deck transporter and Rows of 8 transporter in 1980. These have since grown into the comprehensive series of widening transporters available today. In 1982 they designed the Wing Suspension House Trailer where they set the new standard for the house moving industry. In 1979 MTE produced the first Dog Type Flat Top Low loader, a range that has grown in demand. In 1998 MTE produced the first Platform Transporter.
The largest ever New Zealand produced trailer, some 45 metres Long, was produced in 2011 in the Hamilton factory. The transporter was produced for Multi Trans, the trailer has a total of 304 tyres in its combination, and can have further 16 tyres added to it. All axles in the platform trailer steer to a maximum of 45 degrees. Today MTE operates its headquarters and factories in both New Zealand and Australia. They produce a variety of transporters, ranging from models that carry 6 tonnes to the latest module capable of handling up to 1000 tonnes. Their product range includes tank transporters, boat transporters, house removal trailers, bitumen tankers, tipper trucks, tipping trailers, and custom-built general freight trailers.
