Insights into New Zealand’s wood sector

New Zealand’s wood-processing industry is a global leader in design and environmental sciences and according to the Wood Processors Association of New Zealand, generates NZ$3.2 billion annually.

As demand from international markets increases, New Zealand’s wood processing sector is flourishing. Wood processing is New Zealand’s third largest export earner. Northland and Bay of Plenty are areas vital to New Zealand’s forestry and wood processing.

Commercial goods also generate a substantial amount of revenue for New Zealand’s wood-processing industry. Production plantations manufacture items such as furniture and building material.

International demand

Wood technology and manufacturing have contributed greatly to New Zealand’s success in the industry. Reconstituted wood products alone result in NZ$3 billion in exports.

As demand increases for products like particle board and veneers, New Zealand’s wood-processing sector is increasing in value. According to the Wood Processors Association of New Zealand, forestry and wood processing generates NZ$1.5 billion in domestic sales.

Key Resources

We suggest looking at the following resources:

• The Wood Processors’ Association of New Zealand (WPA) represents companies responsible for the primary processing of between 75 and 80 percent of New Zealand’s wood
• The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry publishes up to date and relevant news, research and publications
• The Bioenergy Association of New Zealand promotes and coordinates the development of bioenergy industries including wood processing
• New Zealand Timber Industry Federation Inc. represents New Zealand’s sawmilling industry.