Insights into New Zealand’s forestry sector

New Zealand is one of the only countries in the world with the ability to increase total forestry production.

We’re a unique country devoted to a clean, green lifestyle, and this has translated into sustainable forestry practices. There are approximately 1.8 million hectares of forest plantations in New Zealand and nearly half is Forest Stewardship Council certified. Northland and Bay of Plenty are areas vital to New Zealand’s forestry and wood processing.

New Zealand Trade and Enterprise estimates 90% of harvested wood is New Zealand Pine, 6% Douglas Fir and the remaining 4% is made up of other species.

New Zealand’s fiscal success in this sector includes:

• Increasing international exports
• Innovative wood manufacturing
• Dedication to sustainable forestry practices
• Collaboration with environmental services.

New Zealand’s production plantations run year round and are amongst the largest in the world. Forestry and wood processing generate NZ$4.5 billion in output per year.

Key Resources

We suggest looking at the following resources:

• The New Zealand Farm Forestry Association represents members at the industry level concerning lobbying and legal issues regarding forestry
• New Zealand Forest Owners Association is an organisation representing owners of New Zealand’s commercial plantation forests
• The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry publishes up to date and relevant news, research and publications
• The New Zealand Institute of Forestry (NZIF) represents New Zealand’s forestry professionals throughout the country
• The Bioenergy Association of New Zealand promotes and coordinates the development of bioenergy industries including forestry.