OUR HISTORY

Our story began in the early 1930s as the Caxton Club, founded by renowned New Zealand poet Denis Glover, together with John Drew and Leo Bensemann. Operating from the basement of Canterbury College, the Caxton Club became recognised for producing finely crafted books and publications while supporting emerging New Zealand writers, artists and designers.

From left: Denis Glover & John Drew; Denis Glover plaque in Victoria Street, outside the original Caxton Building; Summer Flowers Poetry by Denis Glover.

As demand grew, the Caxton Club evolved into The Caxton Press, earning an international reputation for fine printing, publishing and typography. Over time, the business expanded beyond publishing to become the commercial printing company now known as Caxton, while preserving the tradition of craftsmanship established by its founders.

In 1978, Bruce Bascand purchased The Caxton Press and led the business through decades of growth, investing in new technology and establishing Caxton as one of New Zealand's leading commercial printing companies. Caxton continued to embrace the changing face of the printing industry, shaping Caxton into the modern, full-service print company it is today.

Above: The original Caxton building at 113 Victoria Street became an iconic landmark along the street, evolving over the years through various renovations while remaining an important part of Caxton’s history. At the helm was Bruce Bascand, who purchased Caxton in 1978 and guided the company through a significant period of growth and change.

The Christchurch earthquakes marked one of the most challenging periods in Caxton's history. Our heritage Victoria Street premises were significantly damaged, yet our dedicated team continued operating from the remaining building, ensuring our clients experienced as little disruption as possible. The commitment of our people, together with the loyalty of our clients and suppliers, carried Caxton through one of the most significant chapters in its history.

Above: The devastating earthquake of 2011 which led to the demolition of our iconic building.

In 2014, Caxton relocated to its purpose-built premises in Wigram, providing a modern production facility to support the next stage of Caxton's journey.

In 2016, Managing Director Bridget Batchelor took over the day-to-day leadership of the business, continuing the next chapter in Caxton's long history.

Above: Bridget Batchelor, Managing Director and part owner of Caxton and our purpose built factory in Wigram.

More than 90 years on, while the technology has evolved, the craftsmanship, pride and passion for print that defined the Caxton Club continue to define who we are today.

Our Journey

Early 1930s – Canterbury College Caxton Club established.

1930s–1940s – Published works by many of New Zealand's leading writers and artists, establishing a reputation for excellence in printing and publishing.

1978 – Bruce Bascand purchases The Caxton Press.

1980s–2000s – Expansion into commercial printing and continued investment in technology, equipment and people.

1998 – Awarded New Zealand's prestigious Supreme Print Award.

2010–2011 – Christchurch earthquakes significantly damage the Victoria Street premises. Caxton continues operating from the remaining building while planning for the future.

2014 – Relocation to purpose-built premises in Wigram.

2016 – Bridget Batchelor becomes Managing Director.

2017 – Awarded New Zealand's prestigious Supreme Print Award Runner-up.

2020 – Awarded New Zealand’s Category & Process winner for Limited Edition Prints & Fine Arts.

2021 – Awarded New Zealand's Category winner for Paper & Board Packaging.

2024 – Awarded New Zealand's Process winner for Inkjet.

2025 – Awarded New Zealand’s Category & Process winner for Limited Edition Prints & Fine Arts.

2026 – Named a finalist for Training Company of the Year, recognising Caxton's commitment to developing its people.

Today – More than 90 years of trusted printing excellence.