Forest Talk
The stretch limo of log skidders
At 9.5 metres long and 285 horsepower, the Tigercat 635H is one big mother of a skidder. And big is what Tainui Logging owner Phil Hemopo was looking for when he planned this new machine purchase a bit over a year ago.
“You know you are on to a good thing when a machine is out of stock and you need to order it a year in advance,” he says.
“Here in central Kaingaroa the Douglas fir blocks we harvest have a smaller and lighter piece size th..... more
Three-in-one compact combo
The name Henry Fear is synonymous with innovation in New Zealand forestry circles. Whether it be as an early disruptor in silviculture with mechanical planters; introducing ‘smart spades’ which identify exactly where to plant a tree seedling; or hydrogel to extend the planting season, where there’s transformation, you’ll find Henry in the thick of it. His latest project is no exception. The Kobelco BR 160, aka the Bladerunner, using an MDE Koala 400 Tree S..... more
21-day diesel holdings a step forward, says NRC
The Government’s recent announcement to increase onshore fuel holdings to 21 days for diesel is a significant step forward, says the National Road Carriers Association (NRC).
NRC CEO, Justin Tighe-Umbers, says onshore fuel holdings are a critical part of our domestic supply chain resilience.
“Ninety-three per cent of our goods are delivered via diesel trucks, including the critical exports that pay our way such as logging, dairy and..... more
Fire prompts risk warning
A wildfire at Lake Tekapo earlier this month, fanned by extremely strong winds, has burnt through a range of vegetation on privately-owned land, including forestry, farmland and wilding pines.
The fire prompted a strong warning for landowners to make sure any old land management fires are completely extinguished.
Fire and Emergency Incident Controller, Steve Ochsner, says the fire was reported at 2.45am, very close to the Tekapo Power St..... more
Scion awards recognise forestry excellence
A Christchurch scientist whose pioneering research is making work safer for people on the frontline of forestry and rural firefighting has been recognised by his peers at Scion.
Richard Parker has received the Roger Newman Award for Science or Engineering Excellence – one of 12 awards presented to more than 30 Scion staff during the Crown Research Institute’s (CRI) 2022 Employee Recognition Awards.
The awards coincide with Scion’s 75th annivers..... more
State Highway 6 closed for repairs
State Highway 6 is closed for emergency repairs from this month until 18 December with no direct link between Hira and Rai Valley.
“These forestry roads were badly damaged during the August weather event and can’t be used,” says Mark Owen, Regional Manager Wellington and Top of the South.
He says public access through the work sites won’t be possible due to the nature of the work required and the fact the work sites will use the entire ro..... more
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