Wood A Valuable Resource In New Zealand's Economy Access

Beyond direct trade, wood is a powerful engine for regional development and employment. Unlike the highly automated dairy industry, which employs relatively few per hectare, forestry and wood processing are labour-intensive and geographically dispersed. Regions such as Bay of Plenty, Gisborne, Tasman, and Northland rely on forestry for a significant share of jobs—from silviculture and harvesting to trucking, sawmilling, and paper production. In smaller communities like Kawerau or Murupara, the pulp, paper, and timber mills are the economic anchors that support schools, housing, and retail. Furthermore, the sector supports a robust ecosystem of contractors, machinery suppliers, and logistics firms. According to the Forest Owners Association, the industry directly employs over 35,000 people, with a further 20,000 indirectly engaged. This makes wood one of the largest private-sector employers in rural New Zealand.

Why Radiata Pine? 🌳 In the Northern Hemisphere, pine takes 60+ years to grow. In New Zealand, it matures in just 25-30 years. Our unique climate allows us to produce sustainable timber faster than almost anywhere else on Earth. #Sustainability #NZBusiness #Timber wood a valuable resource in new zealand's economy