NZ Logger February 2025

February 2025

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ISSN 2703-6251

BIG

Solid logging equipment approach

Forestry learning hands on

850 750

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FOREST TALK Export revenue looking up; New Plymouth log trains up and running; Green light for levy renewal; Don’t overlook Wood products in climate change goals; ETS annual charge reduced; Silt recovery a steep learning curve; Bringing together livestock and forestry; Māori economy shifting, says report; End-to-end steep slope harvesting solution; Interactive approach to forest learning; Hope and hardship for the world’s forests; Conference coverage: Tools and technology.

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SHAW’S WIRE ROPES IRON TEST Everyone knows Wagners are big, but to get up close to them and even ride in one while it is working is nothing short of awe inspiring, says Iron Test writer, Tim Benseman, of Rotorua Forest Haulage’s new Wagner L130. It did not disappoint.

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BREAKING OUT Quebec-based logging contractor, Steeve Ladrie’s approach to equipment is aimed at meeting worker needs for efficient and productive harvesting in diverse conditions.

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YOUNG ACHIEVERS It’s all about understanding how whole forest systems work for Year 10 students being taken into Gisborne commercial forests, thanks to Discover Forestry New Zealand and the Eastland Wood Council.

DEPARTMENTS 2 editorial 44 fica 48 top spot 51 Greenlight New Iron 52 classifieds

February 2025 | NZ LOGGER 1

from the editor February 2025

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ISSN 1176-0397

PHOTO: TIM BENSEMAN

BIG

Forestry learning hands on

Solid logging equipment approach

Rotorua Forest Haulage’s Wagner L130 with 60-plus tonnes of stems in one bite.

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NZ Logger Magazine

Not so foreign LOVE HIM OR HATE HIM, IT’S HARD TO IGNORE DONALD TRUMP AND THE influence he will bring to bear around the world. Watching his inaugural footage as we go to print raises a number of questions about the coming years. On the face of it, here in New Zealand any tariff adjustments Trump implements may seem far removed but we do need to be aware of potential knock-on effects.

In efforts to protect the US economy, likely increased tariffs on China could result in a reduced demand for Chinese manufactured product, shifting the export balance for New Zealand. And with the bulk of our log exports going to China, if that translates to furniture, we could well feel it where it hurts. Political commentators also suggest that if tariffs are uneven between New Zealand and Australia, competition between the two countries could amp up.

Never a dull moment. Whatever the developments on a broader scale though, good business pulls through. Strategic thinking, strong relationships, care for staff and hard work underpin success anywhere in the world. And when it comes to logging, having the right machinery in the right place at the right time makes all the difference. Something Quebec-based logging contractor, Steeve Ladrie, has taken to heart in his company Les Chantiers du Lac. Turn to our Breaking Out feature to see how he selects his harvesting equipment to meet the needs of his teams, and the diverse land assigned to them, far afield where the forests are mostly white.

If those white forests feel foreign to us, unfortunately it’s the green ones that feel foreign to many of our children. In our Young Achievers feature, Discover Forestry New Zealand, together with the Eastland Wood Council is attempting to address that. They took Year 10 students into Gisborne’s commercial forests to see the work that makes them tick. Future foresters in the making?

If they could see the object of our Iron Test this month, the answer would no doubt be a resounding yes. What can we tell you? The Wagner L130 is big! Big enough maybe even for Donald Trump.

Until next time, stay safe.

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T u

bigwood is back As part of the all-new HX line, the new 626HX is faster, smarter and stronger than ever before.

This powerhouse redefines the legend, delivering impressive feeding and delimbing with unmatched uptime – taking your productivity to the extreme.

forest talk

Export revenue looking up FORESTRY EXPORT REVENUE IS EXPECTED TO REBOUND 4% TO $6 billion in the year to 30 June 2025, recovering from domestic supply-side disruptions and slow global demand over the previous two years, according to the latest Situation and Outlook for Primary Industries (SOPI) report.

Early signs of increased building activity in China could lead to higher demand for logs and some processed wood products, but overall global demand remains low for wood products.

On the supply side, closure of some wood processing plants will lead to lower production capacity in the near term. Uncertainty remains due to the instability of global economic recovery, potential trade barriers, and continued high input costs.

Overall, New Zealand’s food and fibre exports are forecast to hit $56.9 billion by 30 June 2025 and climb to a record $58.3 billion the following year, according to the report.

“The hard work and innovation of our world leading-farmers, growers, fishers, foresters and processors are driving these results,” says Agriculture and Forestry Minister, Todd McClay.

“Strong global demand and healthy prices in key markets are positioning our food and fibre exports for record growth.”

Dairy exports are forecast to grow by 10% to $25.5 billion in the

year to 30 June 2025, driven by tight global supply and higher prices.

Meat and wool revenues are expected to rise slightly to $11.4 billion as demand strengthens and global beef supplies tighten.

Horticulture continues to surge, with export revenue projected to reach a record $8 billion in the year to 30 June 2025, a 12% increase.

Kiwifruit exports are set to exceed $3 billion for the first time, reflecting strong international demand for New Zealand’s premium produce.

“The primary sector is the backbone of our economy and will continue to play a key role in achieving our ambitious target of doubling exports by value in 10 years,” Mr McClay says.

“To drive this growth the Government has moved swiftly to remove regulations hampering the sector’s success. Already we’ve rolled out a comprehensive package of changes to reduce costs for farmers, drive productivity, slash red tape, streamline approvals, and secure trade deals that increase market access and boost returns.

“Now more than ever, global consumers are demanding highquality, safe, and sustainable food and fibre products and New Zealand producers are well placed to provide this.”

The SOPI report is available on the Ministry for Primary Industries’ website. NZL

New Plymouth log trains up and running LOG TRAINS ARE NOW RUNNING BETWEEN WHANGANUI AND New Plymouth, helping reduce road congestion and transport emissions.

This includes services running to Port Taranaki, so people are being urged to be extra vigilant when crossing the tracks next to the Coastal Walkway.

Since 6 January the log trains have been running most days from Whanganui to KiwiRail’s New Plymouth rail depot. The log wagons are shunted (moved by a smaller locomotive) to the port.

KiwiRail Executive General Manager Freight and Rolling Stock Operations, Paul Ashton, has welcomed the return of regular services: “Rail is an excellent way to get primary product, such as logs, to export and we’ve been working closely with Forest360 to make this happen.

Rail also has 70% fewer emissions per tonne carried, compared to heavy road freight.

“But more trains running also means that people should be cautious whenever they approach the tracks. This is especially important on the urban line to Port Taranaki, which has a number of pedestrian level crossings connecting to the popular Coastal Walkway. It’s been about 18 months since regular services have used the line and people need to be vigilant.”

Forest360 Director, Marcus Musson, says rail offers more efficient freight movement and helps take pressure off the roading network.

“Initially we will be loading six wagons per day on the Whanganui to Taranaki route. That removes the need for about 80 truck trips each week, reducing emissions and taking large trucks off the roads.

“Rail is also more fuel efficient, giving our forest owners some relief 4 NZ LOGGER | February 2025

from increased cartage rates due to high fuel costs.”

“This is a great outcome, and I join with KiwiRail in urging people to take care around the tracks and be safe.”

Port Taranaki General Manager Commercial, Ross Dingle, adds: “We’re very pleased to have this service up and running as it improves efficiency for exporters, helps alleviate congestion and the impact on the roads, and helps reduce carbon emissions.

“Our log yards are directly adjacent to the rail line and the log ships that berth, which enables the logs to be easily and efficiently unloaded from the train, stored nearby, and loaded onto the vessel when required.

“With the service returning during summer, when there are a lot of people out and about, we ask that everyone please take a few extra seconds at crossings to look and check it’s clear and safe to cross.” NZL

forest talk

Green light for levy renewal FOREST OWNERS HAVE VOTED TO RENEW THE SECTOR’S LEVY FOR a further six years.

The Harvested Wood Material (HWM) Commodity Levy was introduced in 2013 under the Commodity Levies Act 1990 as a way of collectively advancing the interests of all forest growers in New Zealand.

The Levy Vote, which ran from 1 to 31 October 2024, saw nearly 90% of voters supporting renewal of the levy at the proposed rate of 33 cents to 45 cents for the next levy order period.

The ‘yes’ votes represented 99.63% of the total hectares of voters.

The vote was conducted by independent election agency, Research New Zealand in accordance with the Act. Post-voting audits indicated that some votes cast did not meet the voting or eligibility criteria. All votes that did not comply with these criteria were removed. This included some members of syndicates that cast multiple votes for the same forest, votes that were cast for non-qualifying forests and votes cast by individuals that were not the legal owner of the forest.

The audited result returned 191 eligible votes and a total forest area of 610,357 hectares. Of these votes, 171 were a ‘yes’ to renewing the levy and 20 were votes against renewal. Votes in support of renewing the levy represented 608,070 hectares.

Research New Zealand reported the “yes” vote was conclusive, even if the 109 ineligible votes were counted. On that basis, the 300 total votes returned pre-audit would have still returned a 70% support rate for the levy.

Forest Growers Levy Trust (FGLT) Chair, Stephen Franks, says the positive result highlights the importance of the levy to forest growers.

“Forestry has faced difficult times of late and we know growers across the country are looking very closely at their costs,” he says.

“The fact that growers are still committed to the levy during an economic downturn shows a welcome recognition of the value of shared industry-good activity and representation.

“Forest owners big and small can achieve more together than on their own.”

The levy has generated approximately $10 million per annum in recent years. It will continue to fund sector representation, research and development, biosecurity, environmental advocacy and more.

Ten years of the levy has helped forest owners achieve stronger biosecurity protection for New Zealand’s production forests. It has improved health and safety and helped to transform harvest operations with mechanisation he says.

“The forest research and development programme, in particular, has enabled access to co-funding for growers, raising $2.50 for every levy dollar invested,” he adds. “The successful levy vote is a credit to the vision of those who established the levy and the continuing ability of forest growers to agree on core requirements to advance forest growing in New Zealand.”

He says the focus of the levy has evolved over time in response to growers’ needs: “There is now a substantial focus on cost savings and building resilience. Not only to natural challenges but to local political responses as New Zealand faces international climate change policies and market disruptions.”

The passing of the levy is the culmination of eight months of consultation with stakeholders leading into the Levy Vote.

The FGLT investigated how the levy meets growers’ needs and what changes the sector would like to see, including how the levy should be spent in future.

Growers said they wanted to see greater investment into activities promoting understanding of forestry’s contributions.

There was also appetite, particularly among small-scale forest owners, to fund more work on alternative species. Maintaining the sector’s biosecurity programmes, which also help to protect non-production and indigenous forests, emerged as an ongoing priority to the sector too.

That feedback is guiding the levy budget the Trust will administer for the immediate future.

“The sector’s input is needed to make sure the levy is doing what forest growers need it to do,” Mr Franks says.

The FGLT will now submit an application to the Minister of Forestry for a new Harvested Wood Material Commodity Levy Order.

The new Order will impose a levy rate band of 33 cents to 45 cents per tonne of harvested wood material (excluding GST) on forest owners for the 2026 to 2031 levy order period.

The Trust has undertaken not to increase the levy above 33 cents for the first year (2026) of the new levy order. NZL February 2025 | NZ LOGGER 5

forest talk

Don’t overlook Wood products in climate change goals “COUNTRIES ARE IN A RACE TO SEIZE the benefits and the opportunities wood provides in the transition to a net-zero world,” says Wood Processors and Manufacturers Association (WPMA) Chief Executive, Mark Ross.

Government support for boosting wood processing as outlined in New Zealand’s second emissions reduction (ERP2) plan is a step in the right direction he adds.

“Scientific evidence is clear that wood processing can reduce gross emissions by producing high-value products to replace emission intensive ones such as steel and concrete,” says Mr Ross.

“Having this fact specified within ERP2 highlights that the government now acknowledges the need to implement policies and initiatives targeted at improving the investment environment for high-value wood processing.

“Countries are using industrial policies to position their companies in rapidly forming global value chains. Initiatives outlined within ERP2 are a start, but there is a lot more that can be done to create an environment that supports our domestic wood processing market.”

One initiative, for example, to achieve this boost that appears to have been overlooked in ERP2 is the MBIE procurement policy that is aimed at reducing carbon emissions in building and construction, he says.

Yet as a comparison with the wool sector, there is now a Minister for wool, with wool procurement being a coalition policy, he says.

“As ‘environmental goods’ wool and wood

share the same sustainable qualities. Hence, the wood processing and manufacturing industry calls for an equivalent government procurement policy for wood as with wool,” says Mr Ross.

The potential for New Zealand wood products to reduce the carbon footprint of the built environment and drive the growth of a sustainable and prosperous wood industry is immense, he adds.

“In the future we expect that wood solutions will become more mainstream, and their demand will increase. The low-grade logs we currently export could be used to produce high-value wood products, such as GluLam, remanufactured timber, and laminated veneer lumber.

“With an increase in wood processing, the biproducts of wood, such as adhesives, paints, polymers, advanced packaging,

refined carbon, textiles and plastics will also be able to be developed. All of this will not only benefit our economy but will also support our future climate change goals in a sustainable manner.”

He says other notable points for the wood products industry within the ERP2 include: • progression of the investigation of providing NZ ETS credits for wood processors based on the embedded carbon captured in longer-life timber products, • improving the resource consenting framework for wood processing to make it easier to establish new facilities and to re-consent existing ones, • continuation of the wood processing growth fund, • increasing biomass availability, and • establishment of a wood bioenergy taskforce. NZL

ETS annual charge reduced A 50% REDUCTION TO THE ANNUAL CHARGE FOR FOREST OWNERS participating in the forestry Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) was instated from January 2025.

“This decision delivers on the Government’s promise to rebuild confidence in the forestry sector and support its role in achieving New Zealand’s exporting and emissions targets,” says Agriculture and Forestry Minister, Todd McClay.

The decision follows consultation on amendments to the Climate Change (Forestry) Regulations 2022, which proposed to reduce the annual charge from $30.25 per hectare per year to $14.90.

“We have been working with the sector to ensure we get the 6 NZ LOGGER | February 2025

settings right and restore confidence to the over 4,300 forestry participants in the ETS registry,” Mr McClay says.

“The new charge ensures that forestry participants still pay their fair share of the costs to administer the forestry ETS registry, while not bearing the brunt of Labour’s previous decisions,” Mr McClay says.

“The work to bring costs back in line continues and we have started a wider review of cost recovery settings to be completed in 2026.

“The forestry sector Reference Group was established to increase transparency across the costs of the forestry ETS registry.” NZL

forest talk

Silt recovery a steep learning curve

OVER 2.5 MILLION CUBIC METRES OF SILT HAS BEEN COLLECTED from across Hawke’s Bay as the Silt Recovery Taskforce completes its recovery work removing silt and debris from flood-impacted properties in less than two years following Cyclone Gabrielle.

Regional Council Chair, Hinewai Ormsby, says the collaboration between Hawke’s Bay Regional Council and Hastings District Council, played a pivotal role to support the region as it recovered and rebuilt following the devastation from the cyclone.

“The Silt Recovery Taskforce’s mahi, funded by Government, supported our community hit hard by the cyclone, with millions of tonnes of flood sediment and debris removed from over 1000 properties,” he says.

“I want to thank everyone involved in the Taskforce from the key team, to contractors, suppliers, the communities they worked with, other agencies and everyone else. I also want to acknowledge the support we had from Government, who funded the Taskforce.

Without this combined support our region’s recovery would have been much slower.”

Silt Recovery Taskforce lead, Darren de Klerk, says the months following the cyclone were a massive challenge: “It was daunting, challenging, rewarding and a steep learning curve, rich with lessons for future disaster recoveries.

“We needed to work out how to deal with millions of cubic metres of sediment and debris, safely, efficiently, and sustainably.

The sheer number of jobs logged, and the widespread damage was overwhelming.

“To break the task into manageable chunks, we established the taskforce as a cross-council agency, with no certainty on funding in the early days. We then developed a zoning system and action plan for collecting, testing, transporting, and managing silt and whatever was mixed in with it.

“I’m proud of the work we have done. A multi-agency effort, with community and the region’s recovery at the heart. We’ve cleared an estimated 2.5 million cubic metres of silt, helped hundreds of landowners back to productivity, sorted through over 400,000 cubic metres of mixed waste and tidied up close to 1.2 million cubic metres of woody debris.”

This collaboration was recently recognised at the Association of Local Government Information Management (ALGIM) Awards where the Silt Recovery Taskforce received a Collaboration Excellence Award.

Silt has been put to good use with significant volumes used in Napier’s Parkland and the Hawke’s Bay Expressway development as well as blended into quarries for base course production.

“Close to 15,000 damaged orchard and vineyard posts were recycled into fence posts. Water tanks, irrigation pipes and concrete were also recycled. Significant volumes of woody debris was repurposed into mulch, boiler fuel, community giveaways and community projects,” says Mr de Klerk, adding that he was humbled by the community’s resilience, support for each other, and their sense of humour even when everyone was going through an incredibly tough time.

Hastings Mayor, Sandra Hazlehurst, says finishing the job in less than two years, following the cyclone, was no mean feat, and a major milestone to the region’s wider recovery.

“Seeing properties cleaned up, the piles of silt gone, grass sprouting and our land getting back to productivity is wonderful,” she says.

The Taskforce has returned around 7,000 hectares of productive land with the removal of cyclone strewn sediment and debris across 1184 properties and supported landowners back to productivity. NZL February 2025 | NZ LOGGER 7

forest talk

Bringing together livestock and forestry WHEN LIVESTOCK AND FORESTRY COME together they can build resilience against climate change, enhance productive landscapes into the future and improve animal welfare, says Scion.

That’s why Scion researchers and partners are on a mission to demonstrate the environmental, economic, cultural and social benefits of an integrated system during the three-year Taking risk out of next generation silvopastoral systems research programme.

Agroforestry blends agriculture and forestry in a way that addresses environmental, economic and social pressures. Silvopastoral systems are the form of agroforestry involving livestock grazing on pasture.

There has been little new research on silvopastoral systems in New Zealand for more than 30 years and there is a gap in current knowledge and lack of demonstrated systems. This project aims to change that.

During the research programme, which started in August 2024, the team will hold co-design workshops with research partners and landowners to identify sites where trees can either be planted into established farms or existing stands of trees can be modified.

Animal and plant monitoring will ideally be done across trials on sheep, beef and dairy farms.

Engagement with landowners occurred pre-proposal and will continue throughout, ensuring research, infrastructure and project objectives are collaboratively developed, says programme lead, Peter Clinton.

“Co-design is a key requirement to ensure objectives are met and research is relevant to the needs and aspirations of landowners.”

Animal welfare and climate change are at the project’s core. Mr Clinton, a microbial ecology and soil systems principal researcher, says trees on farms create more natural shelter for animals from the elements. Other benefits include less erosion, potentially more biodiversity and increased carbon sequestration.

He hopes the trials can continue beyond

8 NZ LOGGER | February 2025

the life of the research project.

Simon Van Haandel, a forestry business manager at Pāmu, one of Scion’s research partners, says deciduous silvopastoral systems could be a viable land use option on vulnerable land types across New Zealand.

“Climate modelling shows extreme weather events will worsen over time, which will reduce productivity and increase the risks to stock and the land.

Trees can help mitigate the effects of erosion and minimise the impacts of extreme weather by cooling air and regulating water flows,” he says.

“Historical silvopastoral trials under radiata pine were not economically viable however other values such as erosion control, animal health, shade and shelter, timber and carbon are becoming increasingly important for farm resilience in the face of climate change.

“Pāmu hopes that, through the project, we can show the conditions under which silvopastoral systems can work in New Zealand to provide farmers with another option for their toolkit.”

Dane Tamepo, business manager and board member at Orete No.2 and Other Blocks Incorporated, believes science is pivotal in addressing climate change and building resilience across the organisation’s dairy operation and other land uses. Central to their discussions are the priorities of people, climate, animal welfare, water quality and adapting farming systems to support longterm land-use sustainability.

The Incorporation also has an interwoven relationship with other whenua landowners within Te Whānau a Pararaki hapū, Te Whānau-ā-Apanui, Iwi. “With this in mind, our intention is to share the research so our whānau, hapū and Iwi can benefit.

Understanding our unique challenges and bringing to the table our Te Ao Māori world view, are key outcomes for us and why we are involved in this research,” says Mr Tamepo.

Senior scientist, Karin Schutz, of AgResearch’s Animal Behaviour and Welfare

Silvopastoral systems research programme lead, Peter Clinton. team says the project incorporates a One Welfare perspective – the concept that animal welfare depends on and influences human wellbeing, biodiversity and the environment, and is therefore interconnected.

“Cows and sheep are very good at seeking out microclimates that help them thermoregulate and stay comfortable, so it is good for their welfare,” she says.

“It is also good for the farmer because animals that do not have to spend energy to thermoregulate produce more, so it is good for the wallet as well. It is a win-win for animals and farmers.”

Short-term, the project aims to develop new systems infrastructure to promote farming practice changes. In the medium-term it aims to develop methods for quantifying the benefits of silvopastoral systems. Longterm, the aim is for local communities to have increased confidence in the future of silvopastoral systems, for the public to have greater confidence in intergenerational sustainability of New Zealand agriculture and for the government to have greater confidence in the farming community’s ability to adapt to climate change and other global pressures.

The project is funded through the Ministry for Primary Industries’ Sustainable Land Management and Climate Change fund. NZL

forest talk

Māori economy shifting, says report

THE MĀORI ECONOMY HAS SHIFTED AWAY from its reliance on forestry, agriculture and fishing, towards other sectors like property and professional services according to Te Ōhanga Māori 2023 – The Māori Economy 2023 report (on track for launch early this year).

The fourth report in the series since 2010, the latest report will provide comprehensive analysis of the Māori economy’s growth and development, building on previous iterations.

In advance of its release in early 2025, Business and Economic Research Limited (BERL) in partnership with the Ministry for Business Innovation and Employment (MBIE) are sharing some early insights.

Along with the shift, there has been a continued solid growth trajectory towards entrepreneurship and exponential growth in

the Māori asset base, from $68 billion (2018) to $118 billion (2023), while a significant 32% growth in the Māori food and fibre sector has also been noted.

Another insight shows that, for the first time, there are more Māori employees in high-skilled jobs than low-skilled jobs.

“The report paints a picture of a Māori economy that is dynamic, expanding, growing, and diversifying, while also highlighting its influence and impact,” says Shar Amner, General Manager Te Kupenga Māori Economic Policy & Strategic Partnerships, MBIE. The updated research will present financial measures of the core resources (assets) available to Māori, as well as the flows of income, expenditure, and Gross Domestic Product (GDP) received, spent, produced, and delivered by Māori in New Zealand NZL

End-to-end steep slope harvesting solution THE NEW TIGERCAT 120 CABLE ASSIST IS TIGERCAT’S SECOND model in the cable systems product line. With the release of the 180 swing yarder and now, the 120 winch assist, Tigercat is leveraging its experience in steep slope harvesting systems to create cable systems that complement ground based machines.

It is now possible to assemble a fully mechanised Tigercat steep slope harvesting system with the option for cable assisted feller bunchers, shovel loggers, track and wheel harvesters, skidders and forwarders, as well as the very capable 180 swing yarder.

The 120 winch assist is fully integrated with all the latest generation Tigercat steep slope capable carriers, providing ease of communications and optimal hydraulic efficiency. The 120 is also designed to work without travel signal integration. The basic installation, requiring only the in-cab control unit and antennas, allows the 120 to be mated to any carrier.

The 120 sits on a full forest duty F8 undercarriage for high durability and mobility. The upper assembly has a sloped tail for added manoeuvrability on narrow mountain roads. Access to daily service points and major components is convenient with large swing out doors for the engine and pump enclosures and prop-up roof sections to access winch system components.

All machine functions are actuated with an ergonomic and intuitive remote control system. The powerful, heavy duty boom system with choice of a bucket or other attachments firmly anchors the machine and can take on basic roadbuilding duties.

10 NZ LOGGER | February 2025

With ample below grade capability, the boom can extend over the road bank to firmly anchor the machine.

High capacity cooling combined with a secondary hydraulic braking circuit provides effective braking assistance and heat dissipation for higher-speed rubber tire machines such as skidders, forwarders and harvesters.

The relatively long distance between the boom-mounted sheave and the winch, and the powered cable tension system combine to provide neat and reliable rope spooling. With the boom anchor system planted firmly in the ground, the cable can be operated off to the side of the machine, thanks to the pivoting sheave. NZL

forest talk

Interactive approach to forest learning A NEW EDUCATIONAL KIT FOR PRIMARY SCHOOL STUDENTS, TAKES a mātauranga Māori approach to forest health and environmental issues such as myrtle rust and kauri dieback.

Launched by House of Science, activities in the Te Ora o te Wao | Forest Health kit allow students to explore native forests through audio soundscapes, compare giant trees such as kauri and pōhutukawa and learn to conserve forests by dissecting seeds, studying tree growth and understanding diseases including kauri dieback. The kit also includes Scion’s interactive app E Heke e Heka! and the augmented reality tool Mātaihia Te Heka!, which help rangatahi identify other threats such as myrtle rust.

House of Science CEO and founder, Chris Duggan, says the kits give young learners practical knowledge to understand and help protect New Zealand’s native ecosystems, inspiring the next generation to become stewards of our forests and environment: “By age 10, most children have formed a strong impression of careers they can see themselves doing. If science hasn’t been part of their lives by then, the chance they’ll follow this pathway is slim.

“Empowering primary school teachers to deliver engaging science lessons will ensure a workforce with the necessary skills to embrace and support the future of work.”

Te Ora o te Wao | Forest Health kit is part of a library of handson, bilingual science resource kits covering a range of topics, including electricity, climate change and soil. “Careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics are at the heart of many future workforce requirements and underpin the transition to a climate-resilient, sustainable, low-emission economy,” says Mr Duggan.

Katerina Pihera-Ridge, Scion’s Portfolio Lead for Restoration, Protection & Mauri o Te Waonui a Tane, says the inclusion of E Heke e Heka! and Mātaihia Te Heka! in the kit is significant: “It will make the app directly available to all House of Science member schools and kura, presenting myrtle rust science in Te Reo Māori and English and allowing young learners to engage with this environmental knowledge in a relevant and interactive way.”

Ms Pihera-Ridge led the development of the app after recognising a significant gap in accessible resources about myrtle rust, particularly in Te Reo Māori.

“We identified a need to make scientific knowledge more accessible to whānau, communities and rangatahi,” she says.

“This app offers an interactive learning experience that helps young people understand the impact of myrtle rust and empowers them in their roles as kaitiaki.”

The kit is guided by the BioHeritage National Science Challenge’s Oranga – Wellbeing programme, which combines Māori perspectives on well-being with scientific strategies for biosecurity, ecosystem health and resilience.

Thanks to sponsorship from the BioHeritage National Science Challenge and the Freemasons Foundation, most House of Science

Children at Horohoro School learn about native forests through Te Ora o te Wao | Forest Health kit. branches nationwide will have two copies of the kit. “We have 20 House of Science branches serving over 700 schools across most of the North Island and Christchurch, and our kits have the power to reach more than 170,000 schoolchildren each year,” Mr Duggan says.

Andrea Acton, a teacher at Bethlehem School, who recently trialled Te Ora o te Wao | Forest Health kit, says it captivated the students’ interest. “We integrated it seamlessly across the curriculum, which inspired some of the best creative writing students have done all year. They also created posters full of newly learned facts and are thoroughly enjoying this hands-on, sciencebased approach to learning.”

Te Ora o te Wao | Forest Health kit marks the second collaboration between Scion and House of Science. In 2022, they partnered to create “A Load of Rubbish”, a kit that introduced students to the six Rs of resource management – rethink, refuse, reduce, reuse, recycle and repair. NZL February 2025 | NZ LOGGER 11

forest talk

Over the past year there has been a notable decline in deforestation rates in the Amazon rainforest.

Story: Robert Nasi

Hope and hardship for the world’s forests AS WE MOVE INTO 2025, WE REFLECT ON THE PAST YEAR FOR the world’s forests. The picture painted by the 2024 Forest Declaration Assessment, albeit relying mostly on 2023 figures, is not a pretty one. 2024 was marked by both positive strides and persistent challenges.

While innovative technologies and strengthened international cooperation offered hope, the relentless pressures of climate change, deforestation, and unsustainable use continued to threaten these vital ecosystems.

In the international and national agenda, the role of forests in mitigating and adapting to climate change was reaffirmed.

More interestingly, the recognition of their role in adaptation and water cycles is finally gaining some traction.

Forests play a crucial role in mitigating climate change by acting as carbon sinks and stores, absorbing vast amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. We know that by preserving and restoring forests, we can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and help stabilise the global climate. According to the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations’ (FAO) State of the World’s Forests 2024 report, forests absorb around 11 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide annually.

Forests are also irreplaceable reservoirs of biodiversity, housing up to 80% of all terrestrial species and supporting the livelihoods of millions. At the UN Convention on Biological Diversity (UNCBD) COP16 in Cali, Colombia, this role was highlighted at the launch of The Forest Factor, a report by the UNCBD and the Collaborative Partnership on Forests that highlights how forest conservation, restoration and sustainable management are key in achieving the Kunming-Montreal Global 12 NZ LOGGER | February 2025

Biodiversity Framework targets.

Lastly, forests are indispensable for climate change adaptation and the stability of hydrological systems. They regulate regional and global climates through evapotranspiration, which moderates temperatures and reduces climate variability. This cooling effect can lower temperatures in tropical regions by up to two degrees Celcius by 2100. Forests act as natural buffers, protecting against floods, reducing soil erosion and stabilising water flows. Forested areas near rivers and streams provide shade, maintaining cooler water temperatures essential for aquatic life.

Positive developments We have witnessed some progress in preserving forests, recognising the critical importance of Indigenous Peoples and local communities and interesting technological advances.

Several countries have made significant strides in their forest conservation efforts. Brazil, for instance, witnessed a notable decline in deforestation rates in the Amazon rainforest, with deforestation rates dropping by 30.6% in 2024 compared to the previous year, according to data released by Brazil’s National Institute for Space Research (INPE). Indonesia, another major player in global deforestation, also implemented stricter regulations and invested in sustainable forest management practices, leading to a 25% reduction in deforestation rates.

Technology has also been a powerful tool in advancing forest conservation. Remote sensing and satellite imagery have enabled scientists and policymakers to monitor forest health and detect illegal logging activities with unprecedented

Above left: Climate change continues to exert significant pressure on forest ecosystems.

Above right: The first half of the 2024 boreal summer saw a large number of intense wildfires in eastern Russia (pictured), Canada and Alaska. accuracy. For example, the use if satellite has helped identify and track illegal logging operations in the Amazon rainforest, leading to significant seizure of illegally logged timber.

Indigenous communities, often the traditional guardians of forests, have a deep understanding of and connection to these ecosystems. For example, many Indigenous practices, such as controlled burns and agroforestry, maintain biodiversity and improve forest resilience. Their knowledge and practices have proven invaluable in sustainable forest management.

Indigenous Peoples manage approximately 22% of the world’s land area, including vast tracts of forest. Indigenous-managed forests in the Amazon appear particularly effective, with deforestation rates reduced by as much as 83% compared to other areas, showcasing their vital contribution to carbon storage and climate regulation.

expansion, logging and infrastructure development, persists in many regions, leading to the loss of biodiversity and ecosystem services. In 2023, the world lost an estimated 5.4-6.4 million hectares of forest, primarily due to deforestation and forest degradation. The 2024 numbers are not available yet, but while deforestation in the Amazon has decreased, the rest of the tropical world is witnessing an uptick in deforestation.

Illegal logging and, more generally, unsustainable use of forest resources remain major problems, undermining efforts to protect forests and fuelling corruption and organised crime. It is estimated that illegal logging accounts for 15-30% of global timber production. In November 2023, Interpol stated: “Illegal wildlife trade has become one of the world’s largest criminal activities. It is just becoming easier in 2024 with the help of social media.”

Substantial challenges

Cooperation and good governance key

Despite these positive developments, which include reduced deforestation rates in some regions and advances in sustainable forest management, the challenges facing the world’s forests remain substantial. Climate change continues to exert significant pressure on forest ecosystems, with rising temperatures, altered precipitation patterns, and more frequent and intense wildfires posing severe threats. In 2023, wildfires burned an estimated 6.687 million hectares of forest globally, releasing 6.687 megatonnes of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Preliminary data for 2024 indicates that the situation has not improved. In August 2024, there was a significant surge in global wildfire activity, with most of the increase occurring within a week. Wildfires swept the Amazon as Brazil suffered the worst drought on record; 10,400 fires were reported in Peru. The first half of the 2024 boreal summer saw a large number of intense wildfires in eastern Russia, Canada and Alaska, resulting in the transport of vast quantities of smoke across parts of Eurasia and North America.

Deforestation, driven by factors such as agricultural

To address the complex challenges facing the world’s forests, a comprehensive and multi-faceted approach is necessary.

International cooperation is essential to coordinate efforts, share best practices, and provide financial support to countries with significant forest resources. Strong governance and effective law enforcement are crucial to combat illegal logging and ensure sustainable forest management. Investing in sustainable agriculture and alternative livelihoods can reduce pressure on forests and promote economic development.

Additionally, empowering Indigenous Peoples and local communities to play a role in forest conservation is essential, as they often have deep knowledge and strong ties to the land.

The future of our planet depends on the health of our forests.

By prioritising forest conservation, we can mitigate climate change, protect biodiversity and ensure the well-being of future generations. * First published in https://forestsnews.cifor.org/ This article reflects the personal views of the author and does not purport to be a comprehensive assessment. NZL February 2025 | NZ LOGGER 13

ForestTECH 2024

Tools and technology Story: John Stulen, Director, Innovatek

ONCE AGAIN, THE INNOVATEK TEAM delivered the annual November ForestTECH Conference series in Rotorua and Melbourne with a strong lineup of speakers on a range of advancing technologies. The subject matter experts shared projects ranging from software developments to practical case studies for mechanising seedling establishment for better results and improved productivity in the face of reduced labour availability.

On hand at both conferences were a wide range of experienced speakers who shared how they delivered solid results. The most highly rated presentations were from Bianca Andreis da Cunha (HQPlantations) on improving tree planting mechanisation, Scott Spooner from SPS Automation on drone functionality developments, Dr Dale Fried of 3DEO working with Lee Stamm of Forestry Corporation NSW on airborne LiDAR and Kevin Lim from Lim Geomatics on machine connectivity.

Mr Spooner’s focus was on the Agri-copter as the next step in precision spot spraying for forestry. In partnership with the Precision Silviculture Programme led by FGR, SPS Automation is developing a new generation of heavy-lift spot-spraying UAVs based on feedback from trials. He summarised development of a precision release spraying UAV with 120-minute operational flight time, fully automated flight, a 50kg liquid payload, increased application efficiency, and a redundant long-range communication system. The drone systems are teleoperation ready and are swarm UAV operation-ready, use advanced avoidance/navigation and are backed by local support and training.

Ms Andreis da Cunha, Planning and Development Lead Forester for HQPlantations in Australia presented an extensive case study with plenty of learnings. Her message was that mechanical planting works; it just requires effort and determination.

The HQPlantations team faced significant challenges, including labor shortages, heavy rainfall, and safety concerns with its manual planting operations. To address these issues, they adopted the Swedish solution, the Bracke P12 mounted on an excavator, and brought in Ms Andreis da Cunha from Brazil, who had successfully implemented mechanical plantations in the past.

Initially, there were challenges. However, with persistence, they made monthly 14 NZ LOGGER | February 2025

improvements through making several carefully documented changes including using younger plants and choosing plants with fewer branches. They also adjusted the planting tool, created maps to guide planting at specific positions and modified the rippers during their most recent trials.

The result? A 15% increase in survival rates and the ability to plant on slopes of up to 25 degrees. After six months, they achieved a planting rate of 245 seedlings per hour. They now plan to use a Risutec mechanical planter and to plant 40% of the tree species araucaria next year. Ms Andreis da Cunha’s message from her team was that what’s clear is that putting in the effort and refining the process is key to making it truly effective.

Team work We received strongly positive written and verbal feedback to help us plan the 2025 ForestTECH series. The long-running conference is well-known for delivering practical case studies One of its defining strengths remains the industry-wide willingness to share insights from in-forest trials and commercial operations, fostering collaboration and progress. To make it possible, our Innovatek team is grateful for the collaboration of Claire Stewart and her FGR project team, Mike Sutton from Forestry Corporation NSW as well as all the forest management specialist speakers who shared their expertise. We also

SPS Automation’s Scott Spooner.

HQPlantations’ Bianca Andreis da Cunha. acknowledge the long-standing support of our sponsors, who bring so much with their technology and experiences for improving forestry. Innovatek would also like to thank ForestTECH event director, Brent Apthorp who retired in December after 26 years’ service to the company.

This year’s event attracted forestry professionals from a remarkable array of countries, including New Zealand, Australia, Finland, Sweden, South Africa, the USA, UK, Canada, Chile, Malaysia and Thailand.

In addition to the insightful conference sessions, ForestTECH featured a dynamic exhibition space and interactive workshops, offering delegates hands-on opportunities to explore the latest tools and techniques shaping the future of forestry. NZL

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Iron Test

The massive Wagner L130 unloading a Rotorua Forest Haulage truck at the Kaingaroa Processing Plant.

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Bigger than

BIG

Story & photos: Tim Benseman

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The Wagner dwarfs man and beast.

WHEN ROTORUA FOREST HAULAGE’S (RFH) KAINGAROA SITE Manager, Jay McLean, drives up to our meeting spot he has a 60 litre drum of petrol on his Ute for the regraders crew at the Kaingaroa Processing Plant (KPP). Obviously a hands-on boss then.

“I started out logging with family,” Jay says. ”Did tree felling, ran haulers for a long time, then came here and worked at the KPP itself for Timberlands for 10 years before coming over to RFH to manage the unloading of stem trucks, feeding of the processing plant and then handling of the finished product out the other end. Our crew loads out onto an RFH triple off-highway truck which is on a constant loop with the Murupara Processing Yard (MPY) where its cargo is loaded onto the log train for export. We load out highway trucks too.

They go to mills all over the North Island”.

The Iron Test team fills out some health and safety paperwork in the second story office overlooking the several hectare yard, then heads downstairs. We jump into Jay’s Hilux for a drive around the yard and arrive at the Wagner L130 we are here to test today.

A steady stream of mostly RFH stem trucks is coming through to be unloaded.

Above: Regular operator, Dean Katene (left) and Kaingaroa Site Manager, Jay McLean discussing the Wagner.

Below: Eight packets on one Rotorua Forest Haulage truck heading to the Murupara rail.

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Jay doesn’t seem too keen to expand on his tree felling and hauler days so I note that a lot of the stem truck drivers are older blokes.

“Yeah we have some great older guys driving. Legends really. One of the oldest is Tippy Olsen – 82 years old and still driving these stem trucks. He is our village Kaumatua. We get him to bless our machines; he’s a priest. He blessed this Wagner when it first arrived.

He just lives here in the local village. That guy Brian is another one of the older guys, at work every day. Never misses a day.”

Jay nods towards a lean, spry and wizened bloke who casually flicks the chains off the stems with barely perceptible moves. The economy of movement shows he knows exactly which muscles are required and how much of them. Plenty there for young blokes to learn about.

“Most of our operators are from the village here. It’s ideal being only a few minutes’ commute. I hire a lot of people from the village.

Our Wagner operator, Dean Katene, is from the village. He’s always done all sorts here, he’s also one of the best bucket operators as well as one of the best Wagner operators. There’s only six stem crews that supply us. Their stems are weighed at the weighbridge on arrival and Dean can see the weight and he knows then if he can take the whole load or if he needs to take a small grab first.”

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Every man should have one of these really. You’d save so much time loading and unloading pretty much everything. It sounds manly too when it winds up with a load on, that 15 litre Cummins hits the spot.

Jay smiles, no doubt having heard this before, and continues with the briefing: “Our old machine had a lot of flexing damage to the boom from the uneven terrain here, so we had this new machine built to RFH specs with a more rigid and strengthened boom made at the Allied Systems factory in Oregon, USA. “Because it is so big, the Wagner arrived in a number of components on several trucks as it weighs around 90 tonnes all up. The assembly and commissioning undertaken by Quality Marshalling (QM, who are the New Zealand and Australia distributors) and a factory technician, was completed in our yard and then we made some further adjustments as a contingency for making this machine last longer in our conditions. So, while this machine would lift 70 tonnes easy in ideal conditions, here it just wrecks the gear, so we had the

Biggest loader Everyone knows Wagners are big, but to get up close to them and even ride in one while it is working is nothing short of awe inspiring. Did we mutter obscenities in awe?

Yes we did. Heck we even made some legit outbursts.

Regular operator, Dean Katene, takes a full stem truck load up the ramp toLOGGERS the liveLOGGERS deck.

SERIOUS POWER FOR BIG TIME SERIOUS POWER FOR BIG TIME

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1. The view from the operator’s seat.

2. The front camera view, loadsense screen and docket printer.

3. Regular operator, Dean Katene likes the big cab in the Wagner.

4. The Wagner sounds manly too as it heads for another truck to unload.

5. Regular operator, Dean Katene, demonstrates removing a few logs of a slightly overweight packet before removing the rest in one bite 6. Stem trucks at the Kaingaroa Processing Plant.

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Rotorua Forest Haulage’s Wagner with 60-plus tonnes of stems in one bite.

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Above left: Out the left-hand window of the Wagner as regular operator, Dean Katene, unloads a full Rotorua Forest Haulage stem truck.

Above right: Out the right-hand window as regular operator, Dean Katene, unloads a full Rotorua Forest Haulage stem truck.

Right: Iron Tester, Denis Todd, Kaingaroa Site Manager, Jay McLean and Senior Manager, Sam Sargison with the giant Wagner.

Bottom: The Wagner L130 working hard at the huge log yard at the Kaingaroa Processing Plant. Photo: QM pumps adjusted so they stop at 66 tonnes. Under normal conditions this machine has a top speed of 40kph but because we are only doing very short haul tasks here we had two of the gears removed as well so two forward and two reverse.

“The trucks are supposed to come in at about 65-and-a-half tonnes but for those that are over, Dean will take a few off first then do the main lift. We still get some big loads here from certain crews.

“It’s really easy to reverse all the way to the back with 66 tonnes on board.

You can’t turn around and go forward though as it will nose dive because of the downhill slope. Driving around with it loaded, you need to take it very carefully.”

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Left: The Wagner flexing its muscles and the operator demonstrating the skills of finding the right balance point to unload.

The front disk brakes on this beast are massive. The rotors must be close to a metre across. Serious stopping power.

There is a hollow under the Wagner where it stops to drop its load onto the live deck for the log optimiser. “That hollow is from the weight of the Wagners (this is not their first),” Jay says “Every year they have to re concrete that for us.”

The logs go through a debarker then on to the sequans deck with six chains, two moving saws and one stationary. It can cut a fulllength stem up in about seven seconds so this plant will do about 1200 stems every 11-and-a-half hours or around 2500 stems every 24 hours. 500 cut pieces come out of there every hour.

The front dual wheels on the Wagner are enormous and Jay says these will clock in at $80,000 worth of tyres when it comes time to replace them.

“It’s an impressive machine,” he says and we most certainly agree with him.

Making a great Wagner operator Regular operator, Dean, started out running another, much smaller three-wheeled machine, the Bell Ultra Logger when he was 17.

He got the full immersion treatment first, cross-cutting and running skidders, dozers

The Rotorua Forest Haulage Wagner unloading Self Loader Logging’s Astra at the Kaingaroa Processing Plant.

and diggers in Tokoroa and Kaingaroa.

He actually started out spray painting before that and has led a life of adventure working at several freezing works, shearing sheds, fencing and even building sites driving cranes.

He had an affinity with machines from a young age and says he has taught a lot of people to drive Bells in his time.

“The good thing about doing a lot of different jobs is you can get a job anywhere,” Dean says. “I had four crews that I would zoom around to put their wood away each day and then when they were finished for the day I would go out into the cutover and bunch for them in that little Bell. It was a lot of fun, especially when I got to go down some steep spots in the Bell. Bunching up gave them a good head start the next day for their skidders.”

Old heads in excavator operating circles have often said the best place to start a new operator is on a small machine. They’re tippy sideways and end ways and if you over load them, digging a drain for instance, then you soon learn to listen intently to what your butt cheeks are telling you when it starts to tip.

Those are transferable skills to the Wagner seat because even though it’s big, those long heavy stems have a lot of leverage so you need to pay close attention.

Dean is a big fan of keeping the old machine: “It’s good to have a backup for when this is being serviced. It’s good for training up more operators so they can use both and it takes the stress off the

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Above from left: Senior Manager, Sam Sargison (left) and Kaingaroa Site Manager, Jay McLean at the Kaingaroa Processing Plant; Iron Tester, Denis Todd, with Rotorua Forest Haulage’s Jay McLean and operator, Dean Katene; Iron Tester, Denis Todd, Kaingaroa Site Manager, Jay McLean and operator, Dean Katene discuss the Wagner’s performance at the Kaingaroa Processing Plant. smaller machines when this one is being serviced because they don’t have to come up here and try and struggle with these big loads.”

Dean says it’s amazing how much debris gets caught up in the forks, so he tilts them up and it looks like he is about to push the next stem truck over but he just rests the underside of the forks on the logs and gives a little nudge. That opens up the space for the bark etc to fall out so the forks are nice and even again.

“If you don’t do that often you’ll end up grabbing the pole of the trailer and lifting it and the load which could bend it, so it’s very important to keep that clean.

“This new machine is a lot better. More visibility and stable and it’s good to have the cameras that automatically switch from forward to reverse with the gears so there’s no turning around in the seat – the cameras show you everything where you are going.”

Sam Sargsion says their first Wagner was purchased in 1995 and lasted “forever” clocking up 143,000 hours and two KT19 engines.

“We have had 11 years of service from the second Wagner which was purchased in 2013, clocking up over 70,000 hours. It will stay in service as a spare machine while the first Wagner has been put to rest.”

Jay says he likes the way RFH is run, with the Sargisons being a hands-on management team: “Sam is Tony Sargison’s oldest son; he is my Senior Manager. Then you have Matt who runs the workshop in town (Rotorua) and Jack is the youngest and he runs the engineering shop in town. Sam and Jack are engineers and Matt is the mechanic. They’re all good fullas actually. One thing

the Sargisons can all do is work. Tony still gets out and drives trucks. Brett Sargison is the first in the office and last to leave.

It’s unbelievable really and the kids are the same. Colin Sargison was out here yesterday too, even at his age (79) he still works. He might be very direct but you have to hand it to him. He has certainly created something big.

The Sargsion Family has purchased three L130 Wagners over three generations of Sargisons.

Regular operator, Dean Katene, unloads another stem truck at the Kaingaroa Processing Plant.

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Iron Tester: Denis Todd

A standout machine PULLED INTO THE KAINGAROA processing plant today to the sight of some 20-plus wheel loaders all busy at work, harvesters cutting short stems, diggers fleeting wood… All to be dwarfed by the massive sight of the Wagner L130F110 lifting a load of stems off in the far distance. Quite hard to judge the scale of this machine until you’re right beside the wheels and looking up to see the tops of the tyres and forks which would be nearly two stories high. A very much standout machine.

Dean Katene is the man at the helm of this machine and with 20+ years’ experience on it there’s not much he doesn’t know about it.

Having operated wheel loaders and not a machine like this before, I promote myself to the back seat for a while to watch Dean in action. The machine up close is huge by all standards. Having a close walk around, Dean shows me the forks for this monster. It has two larger arms for closing up onto the load and a smaller set of arms for clamping down on to the stems for better stability and safety, so the stems don’t slide when lifting off the trucks. The bottom forks are hinged at the back, so when too much dirt and mud accumulates they can be rested against a load and tilt back, knocking the debris free. Dean says this is very important for when you lift the loads, that the forks stay even to help with the balance – and when you’re lifting 65 tonnes, you don’t want the stems off balance as that makes the task a lot harder. The rear steering is by the large

jockey wheels at the back. This makes the machine able to turn more sharply which is extremely helpful when turning with the stems to put in the piles.

After climbing the many steps on the ladder to get up, there’s good catwalks with hand rails along the machine to walk along to find greasing points and good access into the cab. After taking my place in the spare seat in the back, Dean takes us over to the unloading bay by the processing plant. One of the first most noticeable things is how quiet it is in the cab, considering how grunty it sounds from watching outside. The vision is the next thing. Being so high up with glass all around, you can see all of the yard in action. On the dash it has a monitor for the cameras situated around the machine.

Reversing camera, forward camera and a camera RFH have fitted on the top of the forks. All very clear and good quality to see everywhere necessary. Dean says the camera on the forks is extremely helpful when closing up onto loads.

There’s a lot to take in when driving along in this machine with the width of the front axle so far apart – all part of the stability when lifting these long stems. Dean drives us down the yard past trucks and loaders with absolute ease, while I’m wondering if we will fit. Changing gears on the way, the transmission is super smooth on this machine. Forward and reverse are easily controlled by the left joystick on the Wagner with the fork controls on the right joystick.

Iron Tester, Denis Todd.

Unloading with the Wagner you can see the years of experience Dean has had on these machines here at the Kaingaroa Processing Plant (KPP). He slides the forks under the load with ease. He does tell me it does get tricky at times when the stems sag by the pole on the truck. Then he usually gets the driver to guide him in. Years of knowledge show when finding that sweet spot to lift the stems evenly off the truck.

Closing the main grapple arms and then the securing of the secondary arms on the load, the Wagner throws up the revs and just lifts the 65 tonne load with relative ease, lifting high clear of the bolsters to let the truck drive off. Dean lets me have a go with the stems running them over to the infeed for the plant.

Sitting in the driver’s seat it is a nice, comfortable office. Air seat fully adjustable for any size operator. The joysticks to operate nice and light to use. Lifting the stems up feels so easy with this machine.

Definitely in no rush when handling the

Placing another load on the live deck.

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3qtr_bc_

IFICATION

SPEC S WAGNER L130F-110 – SPECIFICATIONS ENGINE

LOADING SYSTEM

6 cylinder, 15 Litre Cummins QSX15 Power Max Torque

Type Forks

535hp @ 2100RPM 2305Nm @2100rpm

TRANSMISSION Type

Clarke 8421, Powershift, 4 fwd/rev gears

HYDRAULICS Steering cylinder x2 Hoist cylinder x2 Tilt cylinder x2 Hold down cylinder x2 Kick off cylinder x2

long stems. Slow and steady is definitely the way – even travelling with the stems it feels extremely stable. Although Dean says if you don’t have the forks in the right spot it can be a rocky ride at times. The transmission works so efficiently. A small tap on the peddle and off it drives. Putting the stems down by the infeed. Another

101mmx508mm 254mmx3,150mm 229mmx3454mm 229mmx1473mm 229mmx1118mm

Front end loading Wagner

AXLES Type Front

2WD Planetary

TYRES Dual 27.00x49-42PR 26.5x25-24PR

Front Rear REFILL CAPACITIES (LITRES) Fuel tank Engine coolant

1609 91

Engine Oil Hydraulic system incl. tank

49 1325

push of a button and the logs get pushed off the forks onto the ground. That’s about enough for me as the trucks are coming in and lining up.

Dean says he usually unloads around 50 a day. So I won’t hold him up. Only being limited to around 65 tonne lift, the odd stem unit comes in heavier and that

requires him to usually lift off a handful of stems first before removing the whole load. Dean does this with one load while we are here and he makes taking a few stems off with this monster look so easy.

An absolute pleasure watching a master at work on the biggest Wagner I think I’ll ever see. NZL

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Breaking Out

30 NZ LOGGER | February 2025

Story: George Fullerton

Q

UEBEC-BASED LOGGING CONTRACTOR, Steeve Ladrie explains that his equipment approach is about meeting the needs of his teams: his selection of harvesting equipment is based on having a diverse set of machines assigned to his two separate teams, so that each team can efficiently – and productively – handle the diverse forest stand types assigned to them.

Steeve established Les Chantiers du Lac in 1998 when he began a now 26-year association, contracting for Groupe Lebel. Les Chantiers du Lac is based at Steeve’s home at Riviere Bleu, situated on the Quebec-Maine border, and about 50 kilometres north of the Quebec/New Brunswick border. Les Chantiers operates on public lands in southern Quebec and on Anticosti Island, in the Gulf of St. Lawrence.

Steeve began his forestry career in 1982 as a tree planter and later joined his father Richard’s chainsaw/cable

skidder operation, contracting private woodlots through Groupement Forestier Temiscouta, around their home at Riviere Bleu. In 1986, he joined his uncle’s cable skidder crew harvesting for Abitibi Power and Paper Company.

His first adventure in mechanised harvesting was with a John Deere 693D harvester in 1994.

Les Chantiers du Lac divides its operations into two teams. Late in February 2024, Steeve’s son, Alex, began supervising a team in Reserve Faunique Rimouski, while long time supervisor,

The harvest team in the Les Chantiers du Lac operation includes two Weiler machines – a Weiler h457 harvester with a Waratah H415HD head, and a Weiler 457 with a Log Max 7000 extreme head.

February 2025 | NZ LOGGER 31

Breaking Out Looking Back

ents, for the diameter. This heavy

at set it apart from

s, for the ameter. This heavy set it apart from Tommy Senechal’s team was operating in Reserve Faunique Matane. The harvested wood is shipped to Groupe Lebel mills in the Gaspe region.

Both reserves are managed with Integrated Forest Management Plans (multiple use), which are guided by procedures and rules established by Quebec’s Ministry of Forests, Wildlife and Parks and the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources. The Rimouski Reserve covers some 729 square kilometres and the Matane Reserve covers 1,275 square kilometres. The Matane Reserve boasts the most dense population of moose in Quebec, and many streams and lakes that offer fishing opportunities. The reserve also hosts many recreational trails including a portion of the Appalachian Trail and the approach to the Chic Choc Mountains.

Throughout the year, Les Chantiers du Lac also contracts for J.D. Irving operations in Quebec and Maine, as well as contracting on private woodlots in Quebec through the Groupement Temiscouta.

The right mix The harvesting team in Tommy’s Matane operation consists of a Weiler H457 harvester, with a Waratah H415HD head and a John Deere 753 with a 480 Waratah

C

Top: Les Chantiers du Lac crew members working in a Quebec logging operation.

From left: Mike Landry of Weiler dealer Toromont, Steeve Ladrie, operator, Marcelin (Marco) Dube, mechanic Joel Gagne and supervisor, Tommy Senechal.

Bottom: The crew is up to the challenge in the cold conditions.

ents, for the 32 NZ LOGGER | February 2025 diameter. This heavy at set it apart from

QB3500

STANDARD CONFIGURATION

WEIGHTS & DMS

FIXED FELLING HEAD

METRIC

IMPERIAL

Weight

2,450 kg

5,400 lbs

Height

2,150 mm

85”

Depth

1,962 mm

77”

Width (Arms Closed)

1,422 mm

56”

Width (Arms Open)

1,856 mm

73”

Rotate Motors

2 x MCR05

SAW

GRAPPLE SECTION

Degree of Rotation

IMPERIAL

Weight

3,300 kg

6,820 lbs

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106”

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2,478 mm

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80”

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5.5”

Maximum Opening Diameter

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34”

Bar Lenght

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43”

Saw Motor

F12-40

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QB4400

FIXED FELLING HEAD

F12-60

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60 cc

3.66 in3

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19.05 mm

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Breaking Out

Top: Logging contractor, Steeve Ladrie, says his equipment approach is about meeting the needs of his teams.

Bottom: The selection of harvesting equipment at Les Chantiers du Lac is based on having a diverse set of machines assigned to the teams so that each team can efficiently, and productively, handle the diverse forest stand types assigned to them.

34 NZ LOGGER | February 2025

head. The Weiler harvester operates double (12 hour) shifts, while the John Deere operates only on day shift. The Weiler/Deere harvester team is supported by a 20-tonne Rottne forwarder, which is double shifted to handle the three harvester shifts. Tommy’s team also includes a second Weiler 457 with a LogMax 7000 Extreme head, matched with a John Deere 1210G forwarder.

Alex’s team – harvesting at Reserve Rimouski – includes a John Deere 803 harvester with 480 Waratah head, and a John Deere 753 with a LogMax 7000XT head. Forwarding capacity is handled by a John Deere 1010E and a Deere 1110G forwarders.

The Rimouski and Matane teams operate about 150 kilometres apart.

Alex has 16 years’ experience as an operator, and three years as crew supervisor.

The forest type is dominated by balsam fir, with sites tending through mixed hardwood/softwood to pure hardwood stands. Topography ranges from gently rolling to decidedly steep slopes.

Soil types range from very wet to very well drained. Winter cuts are steered toward wet ground operating on frozen conditions.

Steeve explains that each team has the right equipment mix, allowing them to adapt to the diverse landscape and forest types.

“The Waratah heads are fast and they work extremely well in the more consistently uniform (size) softwood stands,” he explains. “The LogMax works well in the softwood too, but they can handle large diameter trees and especially the large heavy and limby hardwoods, where the Waratahs would not be as productive.”

Their customer, Groupe Lebel, was founded in 1956 by Deniso Lebel and Annette Ciman-Lebel. Louis-Frederic Lebel has served as Chairman and CEO of Groupe Lebel since 2004. Groupe Lebel currently operates 23 sawmills and valueadded processing plants in Quebec, New Brunswick, Ontario and Maine. Its 14 sawmills have an annual production in the range of 900 million board feet annually. The Groupe Lebel operations employ some 1,400 people.

In addition to those employed at the company operations, harvest and transport employs hundreds of independent contractors and private woodlot owner/producers.

Forest management is Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified on the majority of the (Quebec) land base that Groupe Lebel procures wood from.

Team timber harvesting Marcelin (Marco) Dube has worked the past 15 years for Les Chantiers du Lac. He currently operates the Weiler 457 with the Waratah 415 head. His resume includes an additional 10 years of harvesting experience in Alberta.

Marco works a four day/48-hour week.

Marco, along with 12 operators and mechanics from Tommy’s team, live in a rented maple sugar camp for their work week. Marco returns to his home at Riviere du Loup, (three-and-a-half hours’ drive) for weekends.

Marco emphasises the co-operative work culture provided by Les Chantiers.

“We are a team,” he explains. “We have a younger operator with only three years’ harvesting experience. He is not very comfortable with steep slopes and really rough mountain terrain, so he works in the less challenging terrain and on day shift only. That allows him to gain

Operating in Reserve Faunique Rimouski and Reserve Faunique Matane in Quebec, the harvested wood is shipped to Groupe Lebel mills in the Gaspe region.

DIAGNOSE • DESIGN • DELIVER

Breaking Out

experience and confidence. Me and my cross shift on the Weiler, have a lot of experience, so we handle the challenging terrain.”

Two shifts with the Weiler and one with the John Deere provide sufficient production to keep the 20-tonne Rottne busy putting the wood to roadside.

Marco, operating the day shift, is assigned to the most challenging terrain in the harvest block, while the Weiler on nightshift works in less challenging terrain which ensures the team maintains high production.

Working the day shift allows Marco to provide his maintenance, mechanical and troubleshooting talents, as required, to the harvester.

“I have many years’ experience with Waratah heads – I know them like the back of my hand, so I can analyse and repair or adjust them to keep them in top production.”

In addition, they can call upon the talents of supervisor, Tommy, who has been with Les Chantiers since 2009.

Marco and the crew warmly refer to him as their ‘therapist’, for his talent in analysing problems, both mechanical and human, and quickly coming up with effective resolutions.

36 NZ LOGGER | February 2025

Suitable equipment is vital in these challenging conditions.

Marco explains that the Weiler works mostly as a harvester, but for a couple of weeks every spring it operates as a processer behind a feller buncher in big hardwoods on private woodlots.

“I like the Weiler very much – it has lots of power for lift, swing and travel. It has lots of ground clearance, and it is very stable. The machine’s power lets it climb and work on slopes very comfortably,” he says.

Marco also likes the large roomy cab, with “great seat and climate comfort”.

The large front window provides great visibility and doubles as an emergency escape, and a skylight adds visibility and emergency escape too.

The Weiler’s clamshell hood exposes engine and components and serves as a large work surface. Fuel and hydraulic tanks are located on the opposite side of the 300 horsepower C9 Cat Tier 5 engine.

The machine has two hydraulic pumps, with the smaller one serving the head, and the larger one handling the carrier

functions. The hydraulic flow capacity is 287 gpm or 1100 litres/minute. Tractive force is 69,000 pounds per foot, and the 457 weighs in at thirty tonnes. Its reach is 32 feet.

The Weiler machines replaced a pair of Cat 521 harvesters. Steeve points out that the Weilers consume around 25 litres per hour compared to 30 litres per hour for the Cat 521. He adds that the Weiler compares well with his John Deere harvesters’ fuel consumption, which range from 27 to 30 litres per hour.

Machines aplenty Additional gear in Les Chantiers’ machinery line-up includes a Tigercat 870 feller buncher, two Cat 322 excavators, D5 and D6 Cat bulldozers, a Cat 950 wheel loader, and a dump truck. Les Chantiers builds 20 to 40 kilometres of forest road annually. The harvest support fleet includes five service trucks and five tandem fuel trucks. There is also a large service and parts shop located at Riviere Bleu.

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Breaking Out

Top: Logging operation Les Chantiers du Lac divides its equipment and operations into two teams, ready to take on whatever the site brings their way.

Bottom: Appropriate equipment is available for every task, working in challenging terrain.

38 NZ LOGGER | February 2025

The operation also handles some trucking with a Cat-powered Western Star 4900 glider kit, two Freightliner Coronados hauling B-trains, and one International hauling a 48-foot log trailer.

Steeve has a recognised affinity for Cat and the Weiler equipment’s Cat heritage.

Weiler, Inc. purchased the Cat purposebuilt forestry business in 2019.

“I like the Weilers because they are tough. We also get great service and support with our dealers Toromont Chicoutimi and Toromont Quebec City,” says Steeve.

“I tend to put the Weilers in the toughest terrain that we work in. They can handle the steep slopes and maintain high productivity.”

About 25% of the company’s annual harvest is thinning or partial cut harvest.

Over the past six years, some of its harvest operations have involved doing work in severe spruce budworm-damaged areas. Through the past year, they have operated in windthrow blocks. A wind storm that occurred in December 2023 is estimated to have toppled two million cubic metres of wood in the Gaspe region.

Steeve explains that harvesting in blowdown lowers production by 25%.

The blowdown occurred in swaths, with adjacent stands appearing undamaged.

Marco adds that typically the trees in blowdown areas are in a swath (all one direction), and they operate by grabbing the stem at the butt and giving the tree a good shake, in an effort to knock the dirt off before making the butt cut. He says regardless of how well the tree is shaken, there is still some dirt and grit on the stems which quickly dulls the saw chain, and there are frequent chain changes.

Steeve is proud of his crews, and notes that a number of long-term employees have made considerable contributions to the success of Les Chantiers Du Lac. Steeve notes that his entire crew is focused on achieving a production goal of 200,000 cubic metres annually.

He is also very happy to have his son Alex working in the family business, and proudly notes that Alex is moving forward to take on more management responsibilities. * First published in Logging & Sawmilling Journal July/August 2024. NZL

Mike Landry of Weiler dealer Toromont with Les Chantiers du Lac’s Steeve Ladrie.

DIA DG I ANGONSO E S•E D•E D S IEGS N I G•N D•E D L IEVLEI V RER

Young Achievers

Story: Sophie Rishworth

M

ILLION-DOLLAR MACHINES WERE halted at a forestry skid site in December so Year 10 Campion College students could see what happens during a harvest.

It’s the first time Gisborne students have been taken inside a commercial forest in many years.

Hosting the field trips was Erica Kinder, from the not-for-profit industry-funded programme, Discover Forestry New Zealand.

“A big part of the education programme

was giving the teachers and students a good time and understanding how whole forest systems work,” she says.

“We want to show people what happens in a forest rather than keep it behind the closed gates of the past. It also shows them different career pathways available in the industry.

“Forestry is so important to our economy, it brings in 6.7 billion a year to New Zealand, which is seven times more than viticulture,” she adds.

Although this is the 17th field trip she has hosted this year around New Zealand, it was the first time ever in Gisborne after being invited by the Eastland Wood Council. The initiative is backed by local foresters and Turanga Ararau.

Buses took the Year 10 students to three stops along Waingake Road: a young forest for pruning experience, a stream for water testing and a logging site. The final stop was Knapdale Eco Lodge, an agroforestry block off Back Ormond Road.

Year 10s from Campion College made history by being the first group of Discover Forestry New Zealand Gisborne students allowed into a commercial forest to see how it works. Students are pictured here at Knapdale Eco Lodge, which was one of their stops.

40 NZ LOGGER | February 2025

Campion College student, Riley Marshall (15), says the field day had a positive impact on how she views in forestry: “trees are important”.

Year 10 student, Francesca Grant (14), says, “Initially forestry had sounded boring, but there are so many different parts of forestry you can work in. It made me think about working in water testing”.

Forest Enterprises Regional Manager, Warren Rance, came along to share his knowledge, including the importance of pruning. He showed the students how to prune before handing out loppers so they could have a go.

At a stream downhill, students got water testing kits to check the clarity, temperature and whether there were any bugs in the water (a good sign).

Mr Rance explained that water in streams is regularly checked and tested, “to see how we’re doing in the hills above and so that we can make changes if needed”.

“We proudly look after our environment and a good indication is healthy water in and leaving our forests.”

Also along for the day was Forest Enterprises Manager, Jeramiah Te Kira, who shared his story. Originally from Ūawa/ Tolaga Bay, he first got into forestry as a roading contractor.

After one year there he moved into harvesting for three years before moving to Rotorua to study for his Forest Management Diploma. He’s now back home in a management role and, “just loving it”.

Feedback from the forest trip was positive. Campion College teacher, Jon Barry, says the trip “rocked”, and teacher aide, Sam Jones, says it was great: “27 years living in Gisborne and I’d never been to a forest like this”.

Top: Forest Enterprises Regional Manager, Warren Rance, spoke about the importance of pruning.

Middle: Forest Enterprises Manager, Jeramiah Te Kira, was on hand to help Year 10 Campion College student, Madeline Poulter, check for clarity of the water from the stream running beside Waingake Road.

Bottom: Campion College Year 10 student, Carl Capuno, got the award for competency after pruning seven trees.

February 2025 | NZ LOGGER 41

Young Achievers

The students were allowed to hop on board modern, million-dollar air-conditioned machines at a forestry skid site on Waingake Road being managed by Blake Speirs. He owns one of New Zealand’s top logging crews, which harvests 700-750 tonnes of logs a day, filling around 23-25 truckloads.

They’d never had a school group visit their work site before and his crew came away feeling better about the job they do too, he says.

Ruapani Forestry Centre – Turanga Ararau, based on Childers Road, was represented

by Forest Training Manager, Henry Mulligan, who brought two of his tutors and a student along too.

He heads the forestry training division of Turanga Ararau that offers the diploma and the Generation Programme in Gisborne.

“When they come on to the Generation Programme it presents a pathway into paid employment for any level of mahi,” he says.

The diploma run in Gisborne is called Whakatiputanga Ngahere New Zealand Diploma in Forest Management with past graduates now holding management positions in the industry.

Forestry student, Jayden Knowles, shared his story with the students, saying he’d always wanted to get into the industry – like his family.

His grandfather, Hoot Knowles, was renowned in Southern Hemisphere woodchopping circles. The Knowles family has also earned a strong reputation in

42 NZ LOGGER | February 2025

forestry, managing logging operations in the district for years.

Jayden left school at 15 for a job in forestry. Now 16, he’s still working hard, studying for his digger licence and Level 2 and 3 Health and Safety tickets, and wants to run his own logging crew in a few years.

The last stop of the day was to meet Kees Weytmans at Knapdale Eco Lodge, which is on an agroforestry block on Snowsill Road.

Weytmans is part of the Farm Foresters Association and passionate about trees.

“There are a whole lot of reasons why we

Above: Forestry student, Jayden Knowles.

Below: Blake Speirs halted logging operations to show students around. plant trees; it’s not just to cut them down.

“However, if you’re talking trees, you’re thinking soil,” he told the sudents.

“Soil is the most important thing the human race can have. Without soil we have nothing. You do everything possible to keep the dirt.”

FROM CONCRETE JUNGLE TO FOREST TRAILS

K

AITAIA’S JESS WINIKEREI HASN’T FOLLOWED A TRADITIONAL pathway into the forestry sector. When she moved to Sydney in her teenage years, her path seemed destined for the urban hustle.

With a background working for New South Wales Police, and experience in both medicine and psychology, Jess was no stranger to navigating demanding environments. The onset of COVID-19 brought her back to Kaitaia with a new calling – being closer to family. However, her return wasn’t without its hurdles; finding a job in the Far North that valued her diverse background was challenging.

Conversations within her community opened up a new opportunity. Jess learned that her dad’s best friend, Frank Vujcich, was retiring from a skidder operator position at Mold Logging – a role ripe for someone with a fresh perspective.

Workplace Assessor, Jason King, remembers, “Jess was brought into Mold Logging and taken under the wing of the last skidder operator. He passed on a wealth of knowledge that set her up for success.”

Transitioning from Sydney’s concrete jungle to the New Zealand forests was a leap into the unknown, but Jess approached it with confidence: “I just gave it a go. I thought, what have I got to lose?”.

Her family’s roots in trades made the shift feel almost instinctive, she says.

Although Jess had thrived in law enforcement, she says the stress of frontline duties weighed heavily on her. Now, she finds

Jess Winikerei won the Emerging Talent of the Year award at the 2024 Northland Forestry Awards.

peace in a new rhythm: “Anytime I miss the Force, instead of yelling at people, I just yell at the trees. They don’t argue back.”

Joining Mold Logging, Jess stepped into another male-dominated industry with an open mind and was pleasantly surprised by the welcoming environment she found: “The guys would check in on me regularly. I felt good; the crews were easy to talk to. They’ve been supportive of my personal life and very accommodating.

It was surprising, being a male-dominated industry, to see that people really cared.”

She acknowledges the industry’s challenges but appreciates the inclusive culture she has found: “The experience has been really positive. I don’t feel like I need to behave a certain way around the guys – I still go out and get my nails done regularly and no one bats an eye.”

The bigger picture Jess’s journey in the forestry sector began with the aim to become a skidder driver. With no prior experience in forestry, she set her sights on acquiring a skidder ticket. Guided by Competenz Forestry Account Manager, Brent Heaslip, and Workplace Assessor, Jason King, to explore the industry, she opted instead for a more in-depth qualification – the New Zealand Certificate in Forest Harvesting (Level 4).

“The apprenticeship really opened my eyes to what’s out there,” Jess says. “It gave me an idea of all the roles, showed me what’s expected of my team and how I can support them by understanding the bigger picture.”

Jason notes, “Jess smashed the paperwork. Her attention to detail is remarkable, and it doesn’t hurt that she’s gentler on the gear.” She now thrives in the highest-producing crew in Summit Forests, Mold 12, of which half the crew are women.

Brent Heaslip has supported Jess’s apprenticeship, offering regular visits and pastoral care. He is “thrilled” with Jess’ success following her win of the 2024 Emerging Talent of the Year award at the Northland Forestry Awards last year.

“Jess has shown great enthusiasm and work ethic. Operating a million-dollar machine is like second nature to her,” he says.

Brent emphasises: “It doesn’t matter if you’re a woman. Other females have come through the system and are now foremen and team leaders in harvesting operations.”

Jess echoes this sentiment, highlighting the diverse pathways within the industry. “The opportunities are endless. It’s a thriving industry with room for people of all ages and backgrounds.”

Grateful for the earn-and-learn opportunity offered by industry training organisation Competenz, she says she values an apprenticeship’s financial stability while pursuing her career: “I’m older and have bills and car payments. Working and earning has been so helpful. I can appreciate the benefits of the apprenticeship model.”

Looking ahead, she says she is excited to continue growing her knowledge and skills: “I’m loving my time in the industry.

“I feel more confident, but I’m eager to keep learning. I hope my journey inspires others to explore forestry. There’s so much to gain from it.” NZL February 2025 | NZ LOGGER 43

FICA.ORG.NZ

your voice The voice of forestry contractors since 2002

New Year, New Opportunities: Embracing FICA in 2025 As we usher in 2025, it’s time to reflect on the past year and look forward to new opportunities in the forestry industry. FICA has been at the forefront of advocating for the interests of contractors, and this year promises to be no different.

R E F L E C TIN G O N 2024 2024 was a challenging year for the industry and contractors, driven by the economy, a change of government, the loss of local processing and challenging log export markets. It was also a year of the changing of the guard at FICA with a new Chair, CEO and refreshed strategy focusing on a no frills back to basics.

On the positive side, despite market forces, New Zealand harvested similar overall volume to last year, inflation and interest rates are under control and the last quarter showed some recovery in log markets, albeit still fragile and delicately balanced between supply and demand with the Trump wildcard thrown in.

A couple of highlights were the success of FICA in lobbying WorkSafe to change priorities and move away from the focus on falling from heights and guarding on excavators, the green shoots for forestry we are starting to see in Tairawhiti and the success of collaboration with Women in Forestry. For the industry the low point was the tragic fatality on one of the last working days of 2024; it is a reminder that our work is never finished.

J OI N U S IN 2025 As we embark on this new year, FICA is filled with optimism and determination. We are confident that by working together, we can overcome any challenges and continue to thrive as an industry. We invite all our members and stakeholders to continue on this journey with us towards a more innovative, sustainable and prosperous future.

From all of us at FICA, we wish you a happy and successful New Year!

ROWA N ST R U T H E R S FICA CEO rowan@fica.org.nz

44 NZ LOGGER | February 2025

LOOKI NG AHEAD TO 202 5 FICA is committed to providing our members with the tools and resources needed to thrive in an ever-evolving industry. Here are some key areas of focus for 2025: 1. BUILDING STRONGER COMMUNITY: We understand the importance of community and are dedicated to fostering a sense of camaraderie and support among our members. This year, we will be hosting a series of events and networking opportunities to bring contractors together, share knowledge, and celebrate our collective achievements. As such you are going to see more regional focus and more focus on woodlot contractors. As a result of this three of the board meetings this year will be located in the regions – the first in Tairawhiti (Gisborne) followed by the Southern North Island (Bulls) and the Southern South Island (Dunedin).

The Tairawhiti Board meeting will’ coincide with the GDC Councillors’ visit to Forestry operations and the monthly Tairawhiti Contractors’ meeting.

2. SUSTAINABILITY PRACTICES: Promoting sustainable forestry practices that protect our natural resources while ensuring long-term profitability of contractors. At the frontline our work with contractors in Tairawhiti will continue; this is the ‘canary in the coal mine’ for the whole of NZ. 3. ENHANCING WORKER SAFETY: The first priorities will be the completion of the Approved Code Of Practice (ACOP) review and review of the FISC strategy for next five years.

FICA will be at the forefront of both priorities.

4. ADVOCACY AND SUPPORT: Continuing to advocate for the interests of contractors at both the national and regional levels, ensuring your voices are heard in policy discussions.

FICA.ORG.NZ

FICA Working Group - Forestry Approved Code of Practice (ACOP) Review

Study to look at impacts of pulling non-commercial wood within Tairawhiti harvesting operations

Towards the end of 2024 there was a push by WorkSafe to rekindle the momentum on reviewing and completing the Forestry ACOP. FICA is fully supportive of this but was concerned that the timeline was too compressed.

As a result of this, WorkSafe has revised its timeline as follows:

FICA is collaborating with Forest Growers Research (FGR) and Canterbury University to quantify the impacts of pulling non-commercial wood within Tairawhiti harvesting operations.

At a meeting of Tairawhiti Forestry Contractors on 27 November 2024 in Gisborne, it was agreed that contractors will make data available in confidence for desktop analysis on the current impact of slash standards on productivity and cost.

• 13 January 2025 WorkSafe sent an updated draft (all sections A-G) based on the feedback that had been recieved to date • 28-31 January 2025 WorkSafe scheduled a second round of stakeholder feedback workshops

The University of Canterbury has confirmed it can assist FICA and FGR will fund the research. FICA has worked through a plan with the University that is now being implemented. The study will assess the impact of having to pull non-merchantable wood to meet the NES-CF residue standards on prime mover productivity.

• 11-25 February 2025 public consultation • 25 March 2025 WorkSafe to publish the guidance on the WorkSafe website • End of April 2025 WorkSafe will revoke the old ACOPs (this has to happen at least 28 days after it has been notified in the Gazette – the official government newspaper) To ensure there is a unified voice from forestry contractors FICA members were invited to join a working group to review the ACOP. There was a good response from members. The working group will be submitting feedback directly to WorkSafe, ensuring contractor voices are heard.

z

FICA meets with the Gisborne District Council compliance, policy and consenting team FICA and a number of contractor members had a very productive meeting with the GDC compliance, policy and consenting teams on 10 December 2024.

They were very receptive to the proposed contractor led accreditation and training of operators to be considered as part of the consenting process. They also agreed that there would be benefit in setting up ‘Dirt Workshops’ so the industry could get consistency on construction, remedial and post-harvest clean up.

They acknowledged the importance of forestry and a willingness to work directly with contractors. In recognition of this, they accepted a FICA invitation to present at contractors’ meeting on 11 February 2025.

Pictured: Blackstump Logging hosts then Workplace Relations and Health and Safety Minister, Brooke van Velden, on site in October 2024.

February 2025 | NZ LOGGER 45

FICA.ORG.NZ

FICA Immigration working group - Immigration Update As you may be aware, FICA and FOA submitted a joint submission on the proposed changes to the Accredited Employer Work VISA (AEWV). The government has now reviewed all submissions and on 17 December 2024 announced a package of changes to the AEWV which will be introduced over the course of 2025.

These changes move the needle in the right direction for a lot of employers but won’t go far enough for the forestry sector: 1.

Two years of experience will still be problematic.

2. They are not proposing to remove the English language requirement 3. The home country stand-down will still apply.

Seasonal specific purpose visas will have to be utilised in the meantime (four months’ experience only, with planting being a transferable skill) but the fee is the same as a three-year AEWV so is not a great comparative spend.

A Forestry Sector Agreement will be the ultimate solution as proposed in our submission. FICA and FOA have been meeting with MPI to discuss concerns and possible solutions.

See more on the package of changes announced: www.beehive.govt.nz/release/securing-skills-and-experience-nz-needs

Product Helpdesk

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Service

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Parts

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Training

Machine commissioning, simulator training, operator refreshers

Waratah Forestry Services 24/7 phone 0800 492 728 or +6 47 343 1550

46 NZ LOGGER | February 2025

FICA.ORG.NZ

your voice

ON BRANDT.

The voice of forestry contractors since 2002

1.99% INTEREST P.A* ON JOHN DEERE ESERIES CONVERSION MACHINES. Contacts: Mansell Ngaropo 027 445 9840 | Terry Duncan 027 2851015 | Nick Clark 027 411 2330 *T&Cs apply. Finance available from John Deere Financial Limited to approved commercial applicants only. Finance rate of 1.99% p.a. based on 20% deposit of GST inclusive price, GST back and 36-month term. Fees and charges apply. Offer valid on select instock John Deere Conversion machines E300 and E400 Unless amended or withdrawn early, offer ends 20/04/2025.

FICA Partners STRATEGIC PARTNERS

Thank you to all of the organisations who support FICA, which in turn works to promote business growth and improved safety and efficiency amongst forestry contractors for the benefit of New Zealand’s Forestry Industry.

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TO JOIN, CALL 0800 342 269 OR SIGNUP ONLINE AT FICA.ORG.NZ

Safety/performance/quality

Full Year results 2024 HAPPY NEW YEAR. WE HOPE YOU ALL HAD A great break enjoying time doing what you enjoy most.

In the first issue for 2025, we bring you the Full Year results for 2024.

As you will see, there’s a good spread between north and south, crews new to the programme and those who have been involved for a while or have returned.

The key point is excellence. Excellence from those we recognise here and from those who are knocking on the door of top results.

So, welcome to 2025 and we look forward to catching up with individuals and crews again this year.

Let the competition begin!!!

Sponsors – they don’t have to do this but they choose to!

Awesome companies, awesome people and awesome support!

They back you and your workmates to succeed as professionals, so why wouldn’t you support them?

They believe in what we do and what you do.

So, a big ongoing thank you to our

Strategic Partners – STIHL and NZ Logger and sponsor SWAZI. The best way to keep our industry working is to get out and support those businesses that support New Zealand.

Participating companies This competition wouldn’t be what it is without our participating companies who have all participated in or continue to influence the way in which we operate.

We understand the commitment it takes from them to be part of Top Spot and value their ongoing support and feedback.

Our ongoing thanks to: Rayonier/ Matariki Forests, Wenita Forest Products, Ernslaw One, OneFortyOne New Zealand, Crown Forestry, Forest View Contracting, Makerikeri Silviculture (2020), Mitchell

Inta-Wood Forestry Top crew Thin for Value 2024.

48 NZ LOGGER | February 2025

Silviculture, Puklowski Silviculture, Gutsell Forestry Services, Johnson Forestry Services, McHoull Contracting, Wayne Cumming Contracting, Howard Forestry Services, Inta-Wood Forestry, Heslip Forest Contracting, Otautau Contractors, X Men Forestry, Proforest Services, FM Silviculture, Tane Mahuta, Waikato Forestry Services, Rai Valley Silviculture, Thomassen Logging, Forest View Logging, Griffin Logging, Penetito Forestry, Pride Forestry, Mangoihe Logging, CMH Contracting, Kaha Logging, Roxburgh Contracting, Te Waa Logging, Mike Hurring Logging, Bluewood Logging, Storm Logging, Onward Logging, Down and Out Logging, Forest Pro Logging, Eastside Logging, Lahar Logging, Moutere Logging, JD Harvesting, Whisker Logging, Kimberly Logging, Dewes Contractors, Dempsey Logging, Aratu Forests, McCallum Harvesting and Swain Logging.

Into safety?

Into performance?

Into quality?

Contact Shane Perrett on 0274 781 908, 07 3483037 or at primefm@xtra.co.nz. NZL

Safety/performance/quality

THIN FOR VALUE Crew

Participant

Placing

Crew

Placing

Inta-Wood Forestry

Aaron Motutere

1=

Inta-Wood Forestry

1

X-Men Forestry

JR Te Ngahue

1=

X-Men Forestry

2

X-Men Forestry

Kalib Te Ngahue

1=

CREW

PARTICIPANTS

TASK

PLACING

Roxburgh Contracting 2

Phil Jones

2 Tasks

1st

Roxburgh Contracting 2

Tegan Anderson

2 Tasks

2nd

MFL Logging

Simon Collier

2 Tasks

3rd

MFL Logging

Maharatia Te Whaitia

Breaker Out

1st

Stewart Logging

Caleb Beets-Ruruku

Breaker Out

2nd

Stewart Logging

Orisi Driu

Breaker Out

3rd

Shane Griffin Logging 2

Glenn Cochrane

Ground Base Extraction

1st

Shane Griffin Logging 1

Wayde Lindsay

Ground Base Extraction

2nd

Swain Logging

David (Scrub) Thompson

Ground Base Extraction

3rd

Shane Griffin Logging 2

Callum McLeod

Mechanised Felling

1st=

Roxburgh Contracting 1

Damian Mikaere

Mechanised Felling

1st=

McCallum Harvesting

Dave McCallum

Mechanised Felling

3rd

Shane Griffin Logging 2

Chris Cousin

Mechanised Processing

1st=

Swain Logging

Jeremy Stuart

Mechanised Processing

1st=

Roxburgh Contracting 1

Rodger Mathieson

Mechanised Processing

1st=

Shane Griffin Logging 2

Jacob Jenkins

Machine Operation on the Landing

1st

Roxburgh Contracting 1

Luke Stanton

Machine Operation on the Landing

2nd

Mangoihe Logging 5

Russell Gibbons

Machine Operation on the Landing

3rd

Shane Griffin Logging 2

Aaron Buchan

Shovel Logging

1st=

Swain Logging

Blair (Nutter) Campbell

Shovel Logging

1st=

Shane Griffin Logging 1

Marty Glassford

Shovel Logging

1st=

Shane Griffin Logging 1

Mark Hunt

Spotter

1st

Mangoihe Logging 5

Kasey White

Spotter

2nd

Roxburgh Contracting 2

Blair McColl

Yarder

1st

Mangoihe Logging 5

Tim Paxton

Yarder

2nd

Stewart Logging

Matthew Stewart

Yarder

3rd

HARVESTING

Crew Type

Crew

Placing

GB

Swain Logging

1st

GB

Mangoihe Logging

2nd

Yarder

Roxburgh Contracting 2

1st

Yarder

Shane Griffin Logging 1

2nd

February 2025 | NZ LOGGER 49

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NEW DELIVERY FOR DG GLENN Ross Cooper of Napier’s DG Glenn Logging has taken delivery of a new Tractionline. The Mohaka Forest has a reputation for big hills and tough broken terrain. Ross says the Komatsu PC300HW with the Tractionline build will be a great option in this environment. Delivered by Jono Cuff of EMS Rotorua, Motorworks in Napier and Paul Roche of Komatsu Forest.

SECOND WOODSMAN PRO 560 FOR JENSEN LOGGING Jensen Logging has recently taken delivery of a second Woodsman Pro 560 tree harvester. Jensen’s latest 560 head is installed on an existing John Deere 803 MH.

NEW TIGERCAT FOR VOLCANIC PLATEAU LOGGING

LG33637

Owners of Volcanic Plateau Logging, Steve and Julie Yeoman, recently took delivery of a new Tigercat 635H log skidder. Operator, Robert Biddle, who has operated the company’s Tigercat 635D for the last 16,000 hours was rapt to get the latest model. After operating it for a few weeks, he said the big improvements on the old Tigercat are the extra speed and grunt which mean pulling more wood and it is “nice and quiet”. Pictured from left: Tigercat’s Warren Nolan, Volcanic Plateau Logging’s Steve Yeoman, operator Robert Biddle and AB Equipment’s Mark Hill.

NEW MACHINERY FOR A&R DEMPSEY A&R Dempsey logging’s SAT 3L2T is pictured here in action, featuring the colour marking system for LED identification. This attachment was fitted onsite to an existing Tigercat 880.

WEILER B758 FOR KURU CONTRACTING Leanne and Ricky Kuru’s Tolaga Bay-based Kuru Contracting has taken delivery of this new Weiler B758 track feller buncher to carry out steep slope harvesting in comfort and stability. Featuring a Woodsman 1350 felling head, the Cat-powered unit has strong ground clearance and lift capacity throughout full reach. Machine sold by Terra Cat Territory Account Manager, Heath Stewart.

February 2025 | NZ LOGGER 51

$180,000 $180,000++GST GST

$320,000 $320,000++GST GST

$220,000 + GST GST $220,000 +

$320,000++GST GST $320,000

HYUNDAI R380LC-9 HYUNDAI R380LC-9 o REFREF No.N000681 . 000681

JOHN JOHNoDEERE DEERE959MH 959MH REF REFNN.o.513739 513739

JOHN DEERE 948L 948L JOHN oDEERE REF 685933 REF NNo.. 685933

TIMBERPROTL765C TL765C TIMBERPRO REFNNo.o511809 . 511809 REF

2017.

10502 hrs.hrs.

With Waratah 625c.

Located 2017.

10502 With Waratah 625c.

Locatedinin Rotorua.

Rotorua.

TERRY DUNCAN TERRY DUNCAN

027 027285 2851015 1015

2018.

2018.11286 11286hrs hrsononthe themilling millinghead. head.Southstar Southstar milling millinghead headand andisisset setupupwith withSouthstar Southstarcontrols. controls.

Located in Feilding.

Located in Feilding.

RICH RICHGREAVES GREAVES

027 027303 303 1081 1081

2018.

Approx.9600 9600hrs. hrs.Grapple Grappleskidder skiddercomplete complete 2018. Approx. with 6,000 series serieswinch winchon on35.5 35.5tyres. tyres.Just Justbeen been with 6,000 serviced.

Located in Rotorua. serviced. Located in Rotorua.

TERRY DUNCAN DUNCAN

027285 2851015 1015 027

2016.8100 8100hrs. hrs.Southstar Southstar QS600 installed 2018 2016.

QS600 installed 2018 - 4,000hrshrsononhead. head.Head Head good condition with - 4,000 in in good condition with optimiser.

Located in Rotorua. optimiser. Located in Rotorua.

TERRYDUNCAN DUNCAN TERRY

$80,000 $80,000+ +GST GST

$375,000 $375,000++GST GST

REASONABLE OFFERS REASONABLE OFFERS

$280,000++GST GST $280,000

HITACHI ZX250 HITACHI ZX250 o . 513410 REFREF No.N513410

TIMBERPROTFTF840C 840C TIMBERPRO REFNNo.o.513535 513535 REF

JOHN DEERE JOHN DEERE 909KH 909KH REF NNoo.. 512318 REF 512318

CATERPILLAR 568 CATERPILLAR 568 o REF REFNN.o513267 . 513267

2011.

15465 Ensign grapple, engine replacedatat 2011.

15465 hrs.hrs.

Ensign grapple, engine replaced approx 9000 Located in Hastings. approx 9000 hrs.hrs.

Located in Hastings.

NICK CLARK NICK CLARK

027411 4112330 2330 027

2017.Machine Machinebeen beenthrough throughextensive extensiverebuild, rebuild, 2017.

Hydraulicsystem systemcompletely completelyreplaced. replaced.Tidy Tidy Hydraulic example for hours.

Located in Hastings. example for hours. Located in Hastings.

NICKCLARK CLARK NICK

027411 411 2330 2330 027

2013. 14300 2013.

14300 hrs. hrs.Located LocatedininHastings.

Hastings.

NICK CLARK NICK CLARK

027 027411 4112330 2330

027 285 1051 027 285 1051

2017. with Southstar QS630 2017.11000 11000hrs.hrs.Comes Comes with Southstar QS630

TERRY TERRYDUNCAN DUNCAN

027 285 1015 027 285 1015

$190,000++GST GST $190,000

$90,000++GST GST $90,000

$210,000 + $210,000 + GST GST

$95,900 $95,900++GST GST

CATERPILLAR 329D CATERPILLAR 329D REFo No. 513015 REF2012.

N .EMS 513015 Forestry build with hydraulic bonnet and

JOHN DEERE 748H o JOHN 748H REF NoDEERE . 513050 REF N .

513050 2013. 11145 hrs. 30.5 - 32 wheels and tyres. 6.8l

JOHN DEERE 909KH JOHN 909KH REF NooDEERE . 513538 REF N .

513538 2013. 16098 hrs. South Star Head. Some rollers

KOMATSU WA320 KOMATSU WA320 REF No.o513553 REF N .

513553 2011. 10331 hrs. Comes with loadrite L2180 scales.

TERRY DUNCAN

RICH GREAVES

MANSELL NGAROPO

BARRY BEUKES BARRY BEUKES

purpose built cab.build SATCO 630hydraulic Felling Head.

Near 2012.

EMS Forestry with bonnet and new undercarriage.

Located in Rotorua. purpose built cab. SATCO 630 Felling Head. Near newTERRY undercarriage.

Located in Rotorua.

DUNCAN 027 285 1015

027 285 1015

JD engine. serviced RMD every 250 hours.

2013.

11145Fully hrs. 30.5 - 32atwheels and tyres.

6.8l pinsFully re done recently.

Located in Feilding.

JDPivot engine. serviced at RMD every 250 hours.

Pivot pins re done recently.

Located in Feilding.

RICH GREAVES 027 303 1081

027 303 1081

replaced, Torsion Changed and tracks 2013.

16098 hrs.Dampers South Star Head. Some rollers adjusted. Located in Whangarei. replaced, Torsion Dampers Changed and tracks adjusted.

Located in Whangarei.

MANSELL NGAROPO 027 445 9840

027 445 9840

Located in Pukekohe.

2011. 10331 hrs. Comes with loadrite L2180 scales.

Located in Pukekohe.

027 474 0515 027 474 0515

$59,999 + GST $59,999 + GST

$305,000 + GST $305,000 + GST

$250,000 + GST $250,000 + GST

$90,000 + GST $90,000 + GST

JOHN DEERE 624K REFDEERE No. 513812 JOHN 624K o 17981 hrs. Located in Rotorua.

2012.

REF N . 513812

JOHN DEERE 909KH o . 512546 REF NDEERE JOHN 909KH o 2013.

12400 hrs. With Satco felling head. Ready to .

512546 REF N be put to work. Workshop checked/serviced and had

TIGERCAT 625E REF No. 513433 TIGERCAT 625E o hrs. Set up with band tracks. Located 2019.N8000 REF .

513433 in Rotorua.

JOHN DEERE 1910E REF No. DEERE CMH1910E JOHN 1910E o hrs. 1910E John Deere Forwarder.

2010.

15700 REF N .

CMH1910E Located in Rotorua.

TERRY DUNCAN

LocatedDUNCAN in Rotorua.

TERRY TERRY DUNCAN

2012. 17981 hrs. Located in Rotorua.

TERRY DUNCAN TERRY DUNCAN

brandt.ca/nz brandt.ca/nz

027 285 1015 027 285 1015

2013.

12400 hrs.engine.

With Satco felling head. Ready to freshly rebuilt Located in Hastings. be put to work. Workshop checked/serviced and had NICKrebuilt CLARK 027 411 2330 freshly engine. Located in Hastings.

NICK CLARK

WHG 09 438 7228 HAS PUK 0909438 2377228 0043 HAS MTU WHG PUK 09 237 0043 MTU

027 411 2330

06 879 9907 06879 350 9907 0042 06 06 350 0042

2019. 8000 hrs. Set up with band tracks. Located in Rotorua.

TERRY DUNCAN 027 285 1015

ROT 07 345 5490 ROT 07 345 5490

027 285 1015

2010. 15700 hrs. 1910E John Deere Forwarder.

027 285 1015 027 285 1015

h

051 1

15

Quality Second Hand Tigercat Parts Available now from AB Equipment Taupo

es.

15

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Price on application.

Call AB Equipment Taupo Today.

Mark Turner - Branch Manager I 027 240 0772 356 Rakaunui Rd, Rotokawa

EMAIL: mark.turner@abequipment.co.nz

NZ LOGGER classified

Swing Units for Madill’s & Kenworth Logging Trucks Large Stocks of Heavy Alloy Cores & Completes Full Custom Build Service Fast & Efficient

CONTACT OLIVIA TO ADVERTISE 027 685 5066

sales@bopradiatorspecialists.co.nz

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54 NZ LOGGER | February 2025

THURSDAY 20th – SATURDAY 22nd MARCH 2025, TD34700

PAIHIA, BAY OF ISLANDS

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The Komatsu Extreme models have been developed by collaboration between Komatsu Forest & Komatsu Osaka Factory to meet our tough forest conditions.

Komatsu Forest Pty Ltd 15C Hyland Cresent Rotorua, New Zealand John Fisken M: 027 771 5254 Paul Roche M: 021 350 747 E: info.au@komatsuforest.com