OneFortyOne and Port Nelson are the new naming sponsors for the 2026 Top of the South Wood Council Forestry Awards.
Taking place on 31 July at the Trafalgar Centre, Nelson, the flagship biennial event celebrates excellence, innovation and leadership across the forestry sector in Te Tauihu (top of the South Island).
Top of the South Wood Council Chairman, Steve Chandler, says the partnership marks an exciting step forward for the awards.
“Having both OneFortyOne and Port Nelson come on board as co-naming sponsors is a strong signal of confidence in the future of forestry in our region. Their leadership and support will help us continue to recognise the outstanding people and organisations that drive our industry forward.”
Following a challenging period after the 2025 weather events, and with current challenges around fuel supply, the 2026 awards will hold special significance for the forestry community.
Trans-Tasman forestry and sawmill business OneFortyOne manages around 80,000 hectares of plantation forests across Nelson, Tasman and Marlborough, producing timber for both domestic and export markets.
Executive General Manager, Shaun Truelock, says supporting the awards was a way of giving back to the industry during a particularly challenging period.
“The last year has tested people right across our industry. Sponsoring the Top of the South Forestry Awards is our way of acknowledging that effort and saying ‘thank you’ to an industry that continues to show resilience, professionalism and pride in what it does.”
Port Nelson plays a critical role in supporting the region’s primary industries, providing efficient and reliable port services while handling more than 3.2 million tonnes of cargo each year. As a key export port for forestry, Port Nelson works closely with industry partners to maintain strong supply chain performance, while continuing to invest in infrastructure and services to enhance performance and support regional prosperity.
CEO, Matt McDonald, says forestry remains an important part of the region’s economy, with forestry products accounting for more than 40% of total cargo last year.
“Following significant windthrow events across the region, we’ve seen first-hand the challenges facing the industry. It’s more important than ever that we stand alongside the sector and support initiatives like these awards, which recognise the resilience, innovation and leadership driving the forestry sector forward.”
The evening will be hosted by well-known New Zealand personality Te Radar, bringing his signature wit and insight to what promises to be a memorable night.
Tickets sales and nominations are now open. Visit https://totswoodcouncil.org.nz/forestry-awards/
