NZ Logger Magazine | March 2026
March 2026 Shaws Iron Test

Shaws Iron Test; A mean Workhorse

     Story & photos: Tim Benseman

Today we are at DK Logging’s stems crew in the Matahina Forest, near Kawerau, to test the capable and innovative new Tigercat LH857 running a Satco 3L2 and tethered off a T-Winch 10.3 when required.

Owner, Kevin O’Malley, says he is impressed with the new machine. “It drives better and has more lift power than the previous 855 – better cab, wider seat, and that swept up tail makes a big difference in the steep country.”

Kevin started out as a loader operator on a Hough 65, loading out for wood lot crews, and then decided dr...

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March 2026; Harvesting

Winch-assist skidder logging, Kiwi style

A study that wrapped up late last year has examined the conditions in which winch-assisted skidding might shine.While there are many winch-assist units in the forestry...

March 2026 Special Feature

A labour of love

It’s the early 2010s, and Steve Evans learns that the earthquake-damaged Lyttelton wharves are heading for landfill.Steve loves working with vintage timber and is shoc...

Forest Talk

 
  • 22,000th forest machine milestone

    22,000th forest machine milestone

    The 22,000th Ponsse forest machine manufactured at the company’s Vieremä factory was delivered to Irish customer G&G Timber Harvesting this month. The milest...

  • A mean workhorse

    A mean workhorse

    This month our Iron Test team visits DK Logging's stems crew in the mighty Matahina Forest near Kawerau to test the capable and innovative new Tigercat LH 85...

  • Backing future champions at NZ Rural Games

    Backing future champions at NZ Rural Games

    Crowning the nation’s top rookie axeman, the New Zealand Rookies Championship, presented by the New Zealand Axemen’s Association will be part of the Ford Ran...

  • Beehive study spotlights role of native trees

    Beehive study spotlights role of native trees

    Compounds from native trees contribute distinctive properties to propolis, a natural substance produced by bees, according to a recent study by apicultu...

  • More local firefighters deployed to Australia

    More local firefighters deployed to Australia

    The Bravo contingent of 20 firefighters experienced in arduous conditions, plus two liaison officers, departed recently to support firefighting efforts in Vi...

  • Radio trackers locate hornet nests

    Radio trackers locate hornet nests

    As the eradication response effort on Auckland’s North Shore continues to accelerate, radio tracking technology has enabled the detection of ten yellow-legge...

  • “Take up energy efficiency wins,” says WPMA

    “Take up energy efficiency wins,” says WPMA

    The wood sector needs to “seize efficiency opportunities to reduce energy costs and fuel use” says Wood Processors and Manufacturers Association (WPMA) Chief...

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