When Lachlan Murray looked at the robot lawn mowers available in New Zealand, he saw a gap. The existing models weren’t built for the challenges of many New Zealand properties – steep slopes, uneven terrain, and soft ground. So, Lachlan decided to change that with Robomate.

Starting in his parents’ garage, Lachlan began searching for a solution that would work for New Zealanders. He knew what he was looking for – an all-wheel-drive mower, wireless, GPS-enabled, and free from outdated perimeter wires.

That search led him to Mammotion, a Chinese company that had just launched a mower meeting all those requirements. Lachlan moved quickly, securing exclusive rights to supply Mammotion’s robot mowers in New Zealand. But now he needed to get the product into the country.

Taking the leap

It was important to Lachlan to seize the opportunity. He ordered a full container of mowers, and managed to sell half of them in pre-sales. But that still left half to fund himself – he knew they’d sell, but needed the capital to get them into his warehouse.

Rather than bringing in investors – which could mean giving away a significant share of the business – Lachlan turned to BNZ.

A partnership for growth

“Lachlan came out really strong in terms of his entrepreneurship, his skill at sales, and his expertise in the mowing business,” says Vivek, BNZ Commercial Business Partner.

 After reviewing the plan, Vivek was impressed by the groundwork Lachlan had done to reduce his risk in the deal. BNZ backed Robomate with the funding needed to pay for the shipment, without Lachlan having to sell any part of the business.

“[BNZ] have come in with a proper partnership mentality,” says Lachlan. “They’ve understood our business model and looked at the depth behind it.”

From startup to a robotics leader

The support from BNZ proved to be a turning point. With the initial shipment secured, Robomate was able to scale at pace. Lachlan’s entrepreneurial drive, combined with BNZ’s willingness to look beyond the numbers and back ambition, set the business on a rapid growth trajectory.

Within just a few years, Robomate has grown from a garage-based startup to one of New Zealand’s leading robotics companies. The team has expanded to nearly 40 staff, with four stores and a presence in 10 regions across the country.

Robomate’s vans and installation teams are now a familiar sight nationwide, and the brand is recognised as a pioneer in wireless, GPS-enabled lawn care and home automation.

“The growth of Robomate has been phenomenal. Month-on-month performance has been out of the park. I feel proud to support and be part of the journey.” Vivek Balmiki, Commercial Business Partner, BNZ

 As Robomate’s turnover grew, BNZ continued to support the business with expanded financing facilities, enabling further investment in people, infrastructure, and innovation. The partnership has been about more than just funding – it’s been about backing a vision and helping a local business lead the way in a fast-evolving sector.

Maintaining Lachlan’s vision 

For Lachlan, retaining full ownership has meant more than just holding onto shares – it’s allowed him to keep Robomate’s culture and vision intact. Decisions can be made quickly, the team remains agile, and the business can stay true to its mission of making life easier for New Zealanders through smart technology.

Looking ahead, Lachlan is excited about the future. With BNZ’s ongoing support, Robomate is well positioned to continue innovating and expanding.

“BNZ’s support kept the vision alive and set Robomate on its path to becoming New Zealand’s leader in robotics,” says Lachlan.

Originally posted here.