Rallying takes off in New Zealand
As rallying surged in popularity around the world, it quickly established itself in New Zealand as a premier form of motorsport. Manufacturers and private teams alike were drawn to the discipline, where production-based cars could be competitively modified to tackle both gravel and tarmac stages, making it a cost-effective yet highly demanding arena.
Events ranged from intense sprint stages to gruelling endurance rallies, testing not only speed but precision, durability, and teamwork. It was a sport that rewarded skill, strategy, and mechanical understanding in equal measure.
It was during this exciting rise that Mike Marshall and Arthur McWatt joined forces, beginning their rallying journey together. Their partnership would go on to become a defining part of New Zealand rally history, built on trust, communication, and a shared drive to compete at the highest level.
Aluminium Joinery Company Award Sponsorship
Recognising their raw talent and growing potential, Mike Marshall and Arthur McWatt secured a sponsorship agreement with a local aluminium joinery manufacturer.
At a time when rallying was gaining significant public attention, the partnership proved mutually beneficial. The sponsor backed the duo’s ambitions on the rally stage, while gaining valuable exposure through event coverage and local newspaper publicity.
The sponsorship not only provided crucial support for their racing efforts, but also highlighted the strong connection between performance, engineering, and the aluminium industry, an early link that would later come full circle in the evolution of the business behind Window Factory.
Marshall wins Rally New Zealand
Mike Marshall etched his name into New Zealand motorsport history in 1975, winning Rally New Zealand alongside co-driver Arthur McWatt in a Ford Escort RS1800.
At a time when rallying was rapidly growing in popularity, the victory showcased not only raw driving talent but also determination, mechanical understanding, and a fearless approach to New Zealand’s demanding gravel roads. Competing against both local and international drivers, Marshall’s win positioned him among the country’s elite and helped elevate New Zealand’s reputation on the global rally stage.
This success also brought valuable attention to the businesses and partners behind the team, demonstrating early on the powerful connection between performance, innovation, and brand visibility that would later influence the foundations of Window Factory.
Aluminium City Limited is Founded
Building on the momentum of his motorsport career, Mike Marshall turned his focus to business - bringing the same precision, performance mindset, and competitive edge into a new industry.
In 1978, Aluminium City Limited was founded, laying the groundwork for what would eventually become Window Factory. Drawing inspiration from rally engineering, where accuracy, durability, and reliability are critical. Mike applied these principles to aluminium joinery, creating products designed to perform in real-world conditions.
From humble beginnings, the company grew through a commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, and continuous improvement. Much like rallying, success was driven by attention to detail, teamwork, and the pursuit of excellence - values that remain at the core of Window Factory today.
Joined APL Network.
Following a series of conversations between Mike Marshall and Craig Vincent, CEO of APL, a strategic opportunity began to take shape. The two quickly found common ground - not just in business, but through a shared connection to motorsport. Craig had been actively involved in rallying himself, co-driving with New Zealand legend Possum Bourne, creating an immediate alignment in mindset, values, and passion for performance.
What started as discussions soon evolved into a clear vision for growth. Both recognised the potential to combine Window Factory’s manufacturing expertise with APL’s industry-leading systems, technology, and brand strength.
The decision was made to join the APL network, becoming an official manufacturer of FIRST Windows & Doors in Auckland. This partnership marked a significant step forward for the company, providing access to advanced product development, nationwide support, and a trusted brand recognised across New Zealand.
Much like rallying, where success depends on precision, reliability, and strong partnerships, this move positioned Window Factory to compete at a higher level - delivering consistent quality, innovation, and performance to customers throughout the region.
Upgraded to the Latest CNC Technology
As the business continued to grow, investing in advanced manufacturing technology became a natural next step. The introduction of state-of-the-art CNC machinery marked a significant shift in how windows and doors were produced.
Where components were once measured and cut by hand, our twin saw system now delivers fully automated, precision cutting. Every measurement is driven directly from our quoting software, ensuring absolute accuracy and consistency across every job - eliminating the risk of human error.
From there, aluminium components move through to dedicated CNC machining centres, where they are precisely prepared for hardware such as locks and fittings. This streamlined process ensures every detail is executed to exact specifications before reaching the assembly line.
The result is a faster, more efficient production flow - while maintaining the high standards of quality, performance, and reliability that define Window Factory.
Manufacturing of uPVC Windows and Doors
After decades of specialising in aluminium windows and doors, the company expanded its offering to include uPVC - marking a significant evolution in product capability.
This move was driven by growing demand for higher-performing building materials, particularly in energy efficiency and thermal performance. uPVC windows and doors are widely recognised as a premium solution when it comes to insulation, offering some of the highest R-values available in the market.
By introducing uPVC alongside aluminium, Window Factory is able to provide a broader range of solutions to suit different project requirements - whether the priority is thermal efficiency, acoustic performance, or overall comfort within the home.
This expansion reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to innovation and staying ahead of industry trends, while continuing to deliver high-quality, fit-for-purpose joinery for modern New Zealand homes.
Window Factory Customer Rides
Drawing on decades of rallying heritage, Window Factory offers its key partners a truly unforgettable experience - getting up close to the action in a modern-day rally car.
These exclusive customer ride days are a way of giving back, combining business relationships with the thrill of motorsport. When opportunities arise, selected customers are invited to sit in the co-driver’s seat and experience high-performance rally driving firsthand on New Zealand’s gravel roads.
Behind the wheel is General Manager Nick Marshall, Mike’s son, who brings over 20 years of rally driving experience. With deep knowledge, skill, and a passion for the sport, Nick delivers an authentic and exhilarating experience that few get the chance to enjoy.
It’s more than just a ride - it’s a unique connection to the company’s roots, blending heritage, performance, and partnership in a way that sets Window Factory apart.
Discover our Hardware Solutions
We offer four distinct ranges – Urbo, Miro, Icon, and Elemental – each featuring a hardware selection tailored to complement various window and door formats, all designed to match your unique style.
Discover our options for different Colours and Finishes
Product is available in a large range of Dulux Powder Coat colours as well as anodise finishes.
