Our Values

Quality craftsmanship, first and always

Every book that leaves our workshop — a first thesis, a family bible, a presentation box — carries our name. We use archival-quality materials, we do not cut corners, and we would rather tell a customer honestly what a job needs than do it cheaply and badly.

Family-owned since 1979

The Bookbindery has been owned and operated in Auckland by the same local family since 1979. When you ring or call in, you deal with the people who actually do the work — people who have spent their working lives at the bench.

Traditional and modern, together

We combine both the ‘tried and true’ bookbinding processes established many generations ago with the very best of modern bookbinding technology. Hand sewing, gold foiling and leather work sit alongside modern equipment — whichever gives your book the better, longer-lasting result.

Straight talk

We will always tell you what can be done, what it will cost, and whether it is worth doing. Some books need full restoration; some need only a sympathetic repair; occasionally the honest answer is that a book is best left as it is. You will get the truth from us either way.