The region returned a reading of 52.6, well down on the 57 recorded in April last year, but also ahead of the seasonally-adjusted national reading of 51.4.
A reading above 50 indicates expanding manufacturing activity and below 50 shows a decline in activity.
The reading for the northern region was 46.8, central 47.7, and usually high performer Canterbury-Westland 46.4.
Business New Zealand chief executive Phil O'Reilly said although it was good to see the April result in positive territory it was important to look beyond the national result to the unadjusted figures.
The unadjusted figure was still negative and at its lowest level in more than two years.
Added to that, some of New Zealand main manufacturing powerhouses showed a level of contraction not seen since 2006. The central region had been in decline for five consecutive months.
Other comments from respondents had centred on a broader view that the sector was generally slowing because of a lack of confidence. Many were cautious before signing large orders for goods.
"The fact that 70% of respondents now think of only negative influences on their own activity over the last three months indicates a difficult period for businesses to grow," Mr O'Reilly said.
Bank of New Zealand senior economist Craig Ebert said there were several reasons manufacturers might not find it too difficult to survive through the downturn.
"It might be less difficult to retain, or pick up staff, especially as those who were sucked into the housing, public and wider service areas of the economy drift back into other areas.
"Look for trades people, office staff, contractor types, policy analysts, semi or unskilled workers, even the odd former real estate agent looking for new jobs."
The exchange rate was expected to ease this year, promising to not only buffer manufacturing exporters but also those local manufacturers who competed with imports, Mr Ebert said.
