Forest Talk

Forestry is at a crossroads in Gisborne as declining contractors, economic challenges and environmental scrutiny threaten the lifeline of this vital industry, says writer, Sophie Rishworth.

Five years ago, there were 22 towers in the region - 70 foot machines that get logs up hills. Today, only eight are left.

Three years ago, there were 118 forestry contractors (who employed teams) working in this region. Today, 36 are left.

The pandemic..... more

Swire Shipping, a leading shipping company in the Asia-Pacific, has switched three of its vessels serving the South Pacific to B24 and B30 second generation biofuel blends. The voluntary move supports Swire Shipping’s long-term sustainability ambitions and will provide more options to customers looking to reduce their emissions.

The three vessels involved in the biofuel programme are Apia Chief and Tonga Chief on the Pacific Weekl..... more

The fallout from recent heavy rain in Mid Canterbury could land in the vicinity of $150,000. Around 150mm of rain fell in the district over two days, causing surface flooding issues.

On the local roads, Ashburton District Council Infrastructure and Open Spaces General Manager, Neil McCann, says the early estimate to repair the damage is $100,000-$150,000.

“The roading team and our maintenance contractor HEB photographed about 350 locations and ..... more

This month our Iron Test team visits the Catlins with Mark Farrell from Farrell Logging to test his new Komatsu 895HD Comfort Ride forwarder.  

Says, Iron Test writer Tim Benseman: “Eastern Southland looks like one of the luckiest parts of the country to be a logger. Smoothly rolling hills, nice tall and straight tree stems, and bright green grassy paddocks of beef and mutton to ensure a tasty dinner after work. And then you can add in zero earl..... more

A New Zealand-first study highlights Scion’s work to improve propagation and increase the production of indigenous species in nurseries. The study investigates the impact of container grade size on the survival and field performance of 12 key native species – to better understand the link between containers and post-planting seedling survival and growth performance.

Scion raises seedlings from the 12 native species in different container sizes, testi..... more

Putting waste forestry wood to good use by making it available to locals who need firewood for winter was the aim of Tasman District Council’s (TDC) Charity Firewood Day earlier this month. 

After a few growing pains in the first year (including a 6km traffic jam), last year’s timed ticket system was a hit, and the event was brought back to Moturoa/Rabbit Island for 2025. 

Everything ran smoothly, and the council and its forestry part..... more