Next month, Innovatek’s New Zealand and Australia WoodTECH conference series will bring industry leaders and technical specialists together to network and learn. The focus is on getting the best from advancing technologies. With leading international experts there will plenty on offer. It’s all about new ways of improving wood products.
For 2026 conference sessions will include: Sawing technology developments, wood treatment product advances, kiln drying improvement options and wood processing technologies.
As the wood processing sector enters a new era of automation and digital integration, the long-running WoodTECH conference series continues to serve as a key platform for mill innovation and operational improvement.
Recognised as the Southern Hemisphere’s leading event for sawmilling and wood processing technology, WoodTECH 2026 will be held in Rotorua on 18 and 19 of June then in Brisbane on 23 and 24 June.
The 2026 series, themed Sawmilling & Wood Processing Innovations: Improving Productivity & Advancing Operations, will showcase the latest developments in AI, robotics, automation and digital mill optimisation. With a strong focus on the Australasian sector, the programme addresses the operational realities facing regional mills, delivering practical strategies to improve efficiency, productivity and profitability across operations of all sizes.
WoodTECH will feature more than 25 international specialists and local industry leaders.
In Rotorua, Tony Johnston of Wood Engineering Technology will present on “zero light” manufacturing and optimised engineered lumber production.
In Brisbane, Ian Blanden of Forest & Wood Products Australia, will lead a session examining the high-value transition of bluegum into glulam products.
Alongside the conference programme, WoodTECH 2026 will feature live technology demonstrations and practical sessions focused on modern equipment and software solutions. These sessions provide mill managers, engineers and operations leaders with the opportunity to explore new technologies first-hand and assess process improvements that support smarter capital investment and long-term operational performance.
Registrations are now open. With more than 30 international exhibitors and solution providers confirmed, the event also provides valuable opportunities for industry networking and collaboration.
For more see the event website: https://innovatek.co.nz/hubs/woodtech/
