NZ Logger July 2026

July 2026 | 9.50

A e n i h c a m a f

ISSN 2703-6251

o

When speed is crucial

Canada’s hybrid yarder

contents

J U LY 2 0 2 6

14

4 4

14

FOREST TALK NZ Pine aims to lift wood products’ export value; Merged company makes a Stand; Timbersports Kiwis on top of the world; A passion for forestry and people; First ETS ballot opens for exotic forestry on marginal land; Transition to automation focus of conference; Log transport safety advocate honoured.

SHAW’S IRON ROPES IRON TEST We join Speirs Logging’s risk reduction operation in the Gisborne region to see how their Tigercat L870D track carrier fitted with a

26 4161-15 mulching head makes light work of tackling the job of mulching the residual material left behind following harvesting.

26

SPECIAL FEATURE When a new machine was needed to keep the operation going, a conversation he had had five years earlier saw Tony Hill call Frankie Davidson of TDF Solutions. Just over three weeks later, Tony had what he needed.

32 32

BREAKING OUT A project in Canada lasting well over two years has developed a dieselelectric hybrid grapple yarder. We look at the development of the yarder and find out whether the hybrid model might just be the way forward for forestry machinery.

DEPARTMENTS 2 editorial 38 fica 42 top spot 45 Greenlight new iron 47 classifieds

July 2026 | NZ LOGGER 1

from the editor July 2026 | 9.50

ISSN 1176-0397

PHOTO: TIM BENSEMAN

A e achin of a m

When speed is crucial

Canada’s hybrid yarder

Challenging terrain as Iron Tester, Tony Hill, and the Tigercat 416115 mulcher go to work.

ADVERTISING, ADMINISTRATION, SUBSCRIPTIONS POSTAL ADDRESS: PO Box 112 062, Penrose, Auckland 1642 STREET ADDRESS: 172B Marua Road, Ellerslie, Auckland 1051 PHONE: 09 571 3544 WEBSITE: www.alliedpublications.co.nz SUBSCRIPTIONS: $95 (incl. GST) for one year (11 issues) within NZ. Overseas rates available on application.

Trudy Woolston: 0274746033, admin@trucker.co.nz PUBLISHER: Trevor Woolston, 027 492 5600, trevor@trucker.co.nz ADMINISTRATION: Trudy Woolston 0274746033, admin@trucker.co.nz EDITOR: Stuart Whitaker, 021 0232 5713, stuart@trucker.co.nz ADVERTISING SALES CONSULTANT: Olivia Beauchamp, 0276855066, sales@nzlogger.co.nz DESIGN: Luca Bempensante Zarko Mihic PRINTING: Bluestar DISTRIBUTION: ARE Direct Distribution NZ Logger is published on the second Tuesday of every month except January. NZ Logger is published by Allied Publications Ltd. CONTRIBUTIONS: Editorial contributions are welcomed for consideration, but no responsibility is accepted for loss or damage of submitted materials (photographs, graphics, printed material etc…).

If the return of material is required please include a stamped, selfaddressed envelope. Please contact the editor by mail or email prior to submitting material. NZ Logger reserves the right to edit submitted material.

COPYRIGHT: Articles in NZ Logger are copyright and may not be reproduced in any form – in whole or part – without the permission of the publisher. Opinions expressed in the magazine are not necessarily the opinions of, or endorsed by, the publisher or editor.

NZ Logger Magazine

Net circulation – ended 30/06/2015

3,271

www.nzlogger.co.nz Official Magazine of

NZ LOGGER MAGAZINE AN ESTIMATED

30,000 READERS THROUGHOUT NEW ZEALAND AND AUSTRALIA

2 NZ LOGGER | July 2026

Hopes NZ Pine will offer a competitive edge IT’S STILL TENTATIVE POSITIVITY RATHER THAN OUT AND OUT OPTIMISM, but as I write this, there are signs that a Middle East peace deal between the US and Iran may be signed sooner rather than later.

However, as we have seen many times with President Trump, there always seems to be a “will-he, won’t-he” element to be taken into account.

If a deal is signed, the next question is, if, and how quickly, fuel prices will come down – with the knock-on effect being some relief to the forestry industry in terms of operating and cartage costs.

As it seems to have been for a few months now, it’s a case of wait and see.

But not to be too downbeat, the announcement at last month’s Fieldays in Hamilton of the new NZ Pine brand is a positive development that has been welcomed by both the New Zealand Forest Owners Association and the Wood Processors and Manufacturers Association of New Zealand.

We know overseas customers are increasingly demanding not just quality timber, but timber that is sustainably produced. The NZ Pine brand will highlight that New Zealand timber is both. It is a partnership and marketing tool that it is hoped will give the sector a clear competitive advantage.

Our lead story in the Forest Talk section details the announcement and reaction.

Elsewhere in this edition, our Iron Test features Tigercat machinery that is being used in the Gisborne region to help reduce risk in potentially hazardous cutblocks.

We look at how TDF Solutions worked with Hill Logging when they needed a yarder quick-smart to take up the option on a yarding contract when a ground-based crew was grinding to a halt due to wet weather.

We also travel across to the west coast of Canada where T-Mar Industries has developed a diesel-electric hybrid grapple yarder which is now working on Vancouver Island. Tyson Lambert, T-Mar’s Vice President, explains the background to the project and machine owner Dorian Uzzell talks about his company’s involvement and how the machine is performing.

Enjoy this month’s magazine and stay safe.

STOCK NOW

AVAILABLE IN NZ

GAME CHANGER Introducing the Tigercat LS857 – a high-performance feller director and shovel logger with increased levelling capability.

The unique sloped tail of the LS857 allows greater levelling angles and provides winch assist chain clearance. Optimized weight distribution, along with Tigercat’s legendary super duty levelling undercarriage, delivers exceptional stability on steep terrain.

With several boom options, the LS857 can be equipped with a variety of grapple styles, or the Tigercat 5195 directional felling saw for felling and shovel logging with a single machine.

www.tigercat.com

0800 555 456 | www.cableprice.co.nz

262406_Tigercat_LS857

Contact CablePrice today.

forest talk

NZ Pine aims to lift wood products’ export value FOREST OWNERS AND WOOD PROCESSORS HAVE BACKED THE new NZ Pine brand.

At last month’s 2026 Fieldays, Forestry Minister, Todd McClay, announced a partnership between the Government and the forestry and wood processing sector that will result in the creation of the NZ Pine brand to strengthen New Zealand’s position as a premium, trusted supplier of wood products.

New Zealand Forest Owners Association Chief Executive, Dr Elizabeth Heeg, says the brand will help build recognition of New Zealand wood across global export markets by giving the forestry sector a stronger platform to promote the quality, performance and responsible production of Radiata Pine.

“NZ Pine gives growers, processors and exporters a shared platform to tell the story of versatile, reliable and sustainably grown New Zealand Radiata Pine in international markets.

“A stronger national identity can help customers understand where our wood comes from, how it performs and the responsible forestry practices behind it.”

Dr Heeg says the brand’s credibility will be boosted by a government-backed standard, overseen by the Ministry for Primary Industries, setting out evidence behind its product and sustainability claims.

“International customers are asking more detailed questions about the products they buy and the supply chains behind them.

A clear standard will give customers confidence in the NZ Pine brand.”

New Zealand’s plantation forests provide a renewable, yearround wood supply, with many forests independently certified under internationally recognised sustainability programmes, Dr Heeg says.

“Our expertise and research base give us a highly regarded export product. The brand gives the sector a better way to promote those strengths to the world.”

Dr Heeg says the brand launch complements the Government’s recent investment in new wood-processing technology.

The Government is investing $3.2 million over three years in an $8 million project with VoMo Limited, a Red Stag Investments company, to assess the feasibility of producing prefabricated, fully fitted mass timber modules.

“The NZ Pine brand will help us promote New Zealand wood more effectively overseas, while investment in new technology can expand the ways we use and process it here.

“New technology and better processing can help New Zealand use more of what we grow, reduce waste and build higher-value supply chains around a renewable resource.”

Dr Heeg says both announcements reflect the scale of the opportunity available from New Zealand’s renewable plantation forests.

“A stronger international identity and continued investment in new products can help New Zealand earn more from the wood we grow.”

The Wood Processors and Manufacturers Association of New Zealand (WPMA) Chief Executive, Mark Ross, also says the NZ Pine brand represents an opportunity to grow and strengthen New Zealand’s position in global timber and lumber markets.

4 NZ LOGGER | July 2026

The NZ Pine brand will highlight Radiata Pine’s versatility and performance across a wide range of structural and appearance applications.

“New Zealand Radiata Pine is a premium softwood – stable, versatile, sustainably grown and backed by decades of research,” says Mr Ross. “By unifying our story, we can strengthen market confidence and support higher‑value returns across the entire supply chain.”

The NZ Pine brand will highlight Radiata Pine’s versatility and performance across a wide range of structural and appearance applications. Its ability to be efficiently kiln‑dried or treated makes it a reliable, long‑lasting material for domestic and international customers, he says.

The sector is built on responsible production, with large areas independently certified under globally recognised sustainability programmes. The NZ Pine brand will provide a strong foundation for individual companies to differentiate their products and reinforce New Zealand’s reputation for high‑quality, sustainably produced wood, he says.

Forestry Minister Todd McClay says global customers now expect more than quality timber – they want to understand where their products come from, and how they perform.

“Trust adds value, and NZ Pine will deliver it. Under the new brand, there will be a single, recognisable identity for New Zealand’s purposefully grown Radiata Pine.”

NZ Pine will represent wood from actively planted and managed forestry estate, preserving natural forests in New Zealand and around the globe.

“It turns our strengths in the sector into a clear competitive advantage, giving customers confidence in both the product and the practices behind it,” Mr McClay says.

“NZ Pine will position New Zealand as a preferred partner, helping lift export earnings and capture more value for the forestry sector.”

The brand will be co-developed with the Government, with rollout planned for early 2027. NZL

forest talk

Above: The branding of the newly named Stand Forestry Group.

Right: Stand Forestry Group CEO, Dan Gaddum.

Merged company makes a Stand STAND IS THE NEW NAME OF AUSTRALASIA’S LARGEST independent forestry management company.

PF Olsen and Forest360 announced their merger late last year, backed by new investment from Adamantem Capital’s Environmental Opportunities Fund, and the support of PF Olsen cornerstone investor Quayside Holdings.

Now the new entity is celebrating the completion of the merger with the launch of a new name and brand identity to support ambitious growth plans.

Uniting under the Stand brand marks a new chapter for the business which combines 75 years’ experience, a workforce of more than 200 skilled professionals and 480,000ha of forestry under management on both sides of the Tasman.

Stand Forestry Group CEO, Dan Gaddum, says the new name proudly reflects the business’ practice and principles.

“While a stand is a unit of trees, it also speaks of taking a position, standing for something. It reflects our commitment to managing each stand with care, skill, knowledge and discipline and encapsulates our commitment to forestry with purpose –

growing natural capital for good.

“The new name also symbolises how we’re bringing together the people capabilities and cultures of PF Olsen and Forest360 under a shared identity and common purpose.

“By merging two leading New Zealand forestry businesses, Stand is now stronger than its parts. We’ve not only strengthened our core forest and harvest management expertise, we’re also well positioned to accelerate growth.”

Stand sees opportunities to grow its carbon consulting business on both sides of the Tasman. It recently launched a new carbon joint venture model in New Zealand, making it easier for farmers and landowners to partner with specialist Emissions Trading Scheme expertise for mutual benefit.

“Stand’s ambition is to lead the sector in navigating emerging opportunities, be at the forefront of new technology and smart thinking and deliver responsible outcomes to secure financial and environmental resilience for generations to come.

“Standing together as one united team is an important part of that.” NZL July 2026 | NZ LOGGER 5

forest talk

Timbersports Kiwis on top of the world

Matthew Gower competing in the standing block chop.

TWO TOP KIWI AXEMEN EACH CLAIMED STIHL TIMBERSPORT world titles at the same event in Budapest last month.

Matthew Gower from Whangamomona in Taranaki snatched victory by just 5 hundredths of a second in the final discipline, to win the Stihl Timbersports Rookies (Under 25) World Championship – his first ever world title.

Then the world’s best axeman, King Country farmer Jack Jordan, set yet another world record on his way to achieving an incredible four-peat of the Stihl Timbersports World Trophy.

Gower, 23, set four national records and a personal best across the five timbersport disciplines in the rookies world championship format against 12 other competitors. The title came down to the very last of those disciplines, with Gower pipping Australia’s Awatea Moore Barrett in the technical springboard event.

“It hasn’t fully sunk in yet, but I know all the boys and family at home are watching,” said Gower. “It’s been an honour – I’m honestly lost for words. It feels so good to know everyone is watching at home, and I wouldn’t have been able to do it without the supportive community I have back at home. It was definitely worth the trip, it’s been amazing.”

The qualified diesel mechanic, with a passion for hunting, who also works on the family’s Whangamomona farm, has represented New Zealand in age group tournaments for the past five years and also won the New Zealand Rookies championship for the first time last year.

The World Trophy format that Jordan won for the fourth straight time is like the T20 cricket of international wood chopping. The quick-fire event, with four disciplines back to back, and no rest in between, makes it suited to competitors with superior fitness and endurance.

Jordan set a new world record of 50.84 seconds – smashing his previous World Trophy record time of 52.53 seconds set in Milan two years ago.

6 NZ LOGGER | July 2026

The 29-year-old is also the current Stihl Timbersports World Champion and the New Zealand Rural Sports Person of the Year Supreme Award winner and beat 16 of the world’s top axemen, from 16 countries, to claim his latest historic feat.

“I feel great, it’s great to be able to come over here and succeed,” he said.

“It’s been tough going, all the training you put in at home, you sometimes wonder what it’s for when you have no competition.

To get over here and put on a performance like that, I’m extremely happy about it. There was a lot of pressure in that final. Five years ago, no one knew about me, so hopefully I can keep on doing it.”

The other piece of history achieved by the New Zealand Timbersports team in Budapest was Aussie-based Kiwi Ashleigh Marsh competing in the first ever Stihl Timbersports Women’s World Championship.

Marsh, originally from Westport, has lived and competed in Australia for a decade. She finished fourth in a 10-strong field contested over four individual timbersport disciplines. NZL

Jack Jordan celebrates his win.

THE ULTIMATE POWER PLAY H-Series logging machines harvest at the highest level, working seamlessly as a system to deliver unmatched productivity and fuel efficiency.

Our game changing IBC automation comes standard - providing smooth, precision boom control while Active Frame Lock increases harvesting stability on steep terrain. 25% more load capacity, longer reach booms, and the new frame lock ensure stable full-load forwarding, improving operational efficiency.

Modernised cabs provide exceptional comfort, improving operator well-being and ensuring productivity stays high from first cut to last load.

Make that power play with John Deere H-Series.

deere.co.nz/en/forestry/h-series/ 1793JHNDRE

forest talk

A passion for forestry and people Over 35 years in forestry, Mr Collett has seen INCOMING FOREST INDUSTRY SAFETY COUNCIL significant change – particularly as mechanisation (FISC) Chairman Darrin Collett knows the forestry and technology continue to reshape forestry industry inside out. operations. While he sees major safety gains, he From wielding a chainsaw in logging crews in the also recognises emerging risks. late 1980s and early 1990s, he moved on to roles “I think going to machinery, using technology to co-ordinating operations, log production and log enhance safety, is vital,” he says. “But with that procurement. He also worked in corporate forests comes a challenge as well … keeping machine as regional manager for Fletcher Challenge Forests. operators safe is probably our next biggest risk In 2004 he established Woodbank Trading, a profile.” business specialising in the harvesting and Broadening FISC’s reach across the industry will marketing of small forests. At its peak, the company be a priority for his chairmanship, particularly in employed seven full-time staff and worked areas where engagement has been limited. with multiple logging, cartage and earthworks New Forest Industry “One of the things I’m really keen on is getting a contractors, primarily in Northland, Auckland, Safety Council Chairman wider audience for FISC in those areas where they Waikato and the East Coast.

Darrin Collett. haven’t been able to get.”

Alongside its core operations, the business He believes greater awareness and understanding delivers a range of consultancy services, including valuations, harvest planning advice, market updates, Tropical Forest of FISC’s work will be key to continuing safety improvements.

At the heart of it all, Mr Collett says, it is the people in forestry who Stewardship Council audits, general logging and roading advice and have kept him in the industry – and who motivate him to improve Reduced Impact Logging training.

Mr Collett’s expertise has also taken him around the world. Over safety outcomes.

“I love the people and the simplicity of our industry. Loggers the past 20 years, he has been involved in forestry audits and training across Guyana, Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, are still the same today as they were 35 years ago, just with some different tools. And I like those sorts of people. They are industrious, the Philippines, Korea, China, India and Vietnam.

Now semi-retired, Mr Collett sold the trading arm of Woodbank genuine. They’re not flashy. And they have to think outside the Trading last year to one of his employees, while retaining the square.”

FISC Chief Executive, Joe Akari, says the Council values Mr Collett’s consultancy side. The change opened the door for new opportunities.

“I’m interested in a new challenge and in upskilling myself in a know-how.

“We’re looking forward to benefiting from Darrin’s breadth of different area, which is why the FISC chair role appealed to me,” he experience. The Council has achieved much in its time, but there says.

Health and safety has been a constant thread throughout his are plenty of challenges ahead and work to do to both maintain and build on the levels of safety in our industry we’ve achieved to date,” career.

“I’ve always had a passion for health and safety, something that he says.

Mr Akari also acknowledged the contribution of Grant Dodson, who has evolved significantly during my time in the sector, given that I started out in a logging crew when times were very different. That stepped in as Acting Chairman following Simon O’Grady’s departure gave me an interest in health and safety, so it was perfect for me to in September last year.

Mr Collett began his new role in May. NZL apply for this role.”

First ETS ballot opens for exotic forestry on marginal land APPLICATIONS FOR THE FIRST BALLOT TO REGISTER EXOTIC forestry on marginal land in the New Zealand Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) opened on June 19.

The ballot is part of updated ETS forestry rules that took effect on 31 October last year.

John Saunders, Director Forestry Operations at Te Uru Rākau – New Zealand Forest Services, says the changes establish a permit allocation system and clarify where exotic forestry can register in the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS).

Until 22 July, the Ministry for Primary Industries will run the first of two annual ballots to allocate permits covering up to 15,000ha of Land Use Capability (LUC) Class 6 land each year. This non-arable land 8 NZ LOGGER | July 2026

is generally less suitable for productive uses than LUC Classes 1–5.

Each ballot allocates 7500ha, with 2000ha reserved for small applications of up to 100ha. Successful permits enable registration of post-1989 forests on LUC Class 6 land in the ETS. Under 2025 reforms, landowners may also plant and register up to 25% of their LUC Class 1-6 land in exotic forestry within the ETS. Land entered via ballot permits sits outside this allowance.

“The updated legislation establishes a structured allocation process and provides clearer eligibility criteria,” Mr Saunders says.

“Permits are allocated through a ballot system based on a random draw, and a reserved category for smaller applications aims to enable participation across a range of project sizes.” NZL

FACTORY HIGH & WIDES IN STOCK NOW! The forestry game is unforgiving—you need a machine that’s built for it. That’s why the SK300LC and SK210LC High & Wide come factory equipped with increased ground clearance, a wider footprint and double grouser undercarriage. More stable, more rugged, and better suited to challenging forestry terrain than a standard excavator, they deliver the base capability operators demand, ready to be customised locally to your exact requirements. With Legendary Reliability that’s the product of decades of Japanese engineering, they’re forestry tough, for tough New Zealand conditions.

kobelco.co.nz | 0800 333 229

forest talk

Francois Barton from Business Leaders Health and Safety Forum at the Innovatek WoodTECH Conference in Rotorua. Photo: Innovateck

Transition to automation focus of conference THE RECENT INNOVATEK WOODTECH 2026 CONFERENCE IN Rotorua focused on the transition to automated sawmilling and lumber manufacturing technologies for the forest and wood processing sectors.

Several leading technical experts from scanning and manufacturing suppliers in Europe and North America delivered case studies to a sell-out audience. The range of practical presentations showed how AI and automation technologies are being adopted for the Southern Hemisphere’s sawmilling sector.

One early adopter, Niagara Sawmilling, recently announced a $115 million mill for their Invercargill site, using the latest available equipment.

The exhibition floor at the conference was a major drawcard, featuring a record number of specialist wood technology suppliers. Over 250 wood industry people attended. The comprehensive expo allowed mill managers and operations leaders to compare, first-hand, the latest advancements from companies like Finnos, Comact, Hew Saw, DO2, and SiCam Systems. The presence of over 25 international speakers helped to bridge the gap between global innovation and local operational reality.

The 2026 programme, themed Automation, AI & Action, reflected a sector-wide transition. The sessions were specifically designed to address the move toward “zero light” manufacturing 10 NZ LOGGER | July 2026

– autonomous production lines capable of operating at maximum output with minimal manual oversight.

Key technology presenters and sessions The keynote address was by Wood Engineering Technology Executive Director, Tony Johnston, who outlined his company’s path from concept to fully automated production and optimised engineered lumber. His team has now patented this revolutionary new technology. The mill is now commissioned and in commercial operation at their largely unmanned manufacturing facility in Gisborne.

Other presenters and sessions included: Global Wood Manufacturing Perspectives: Experts from European manufacturing leaders like LINCK and Springer detailed how to achieve high output with minimal manual oversight such as the “one operator, maximum output” model.

Operational Excellence: Bringing a completely difference set of insights and understanding on human factors was Francois Barton, CEO of the New Zealand Business Leaders’ Health and Safety Forum. His expertise and practical insights revealed how all managers can engage their workforce on practical terms, using the 4-Ds and TEDS questioning techniques. These are proven for making manufacturing operations more worker-friendly and productive. He detailed a case study from Mitchell Services, an

forest talk

ASX-listed drilling company which uses a 4-Ds system as a core component of their Human and Organisational Performance (HOP) safety culture. Developed to empower frontline workers and leaders, the framework stands for Dumb, Difficult, Dangerous and Different.

Precision Timber Recovery and AI: Nick Barrett (President, SiCam Systems) and Jyri Smagin (CEO, Finnos Oy) presented case studies on how AI-powered scanning and closed-loop size control are reducing waste and maintenance costs on the mill floor.

Robotics: Patrick Sasseville (CEO, DO2) showcased innovations in combining vision systems and control technologies specifically for planer mills. His team’s robotic systems for wood manufacturing are being adopted quickly around the world.

Workforce Resilience: Lance Burdett is a former lead crisis negotiator for the New Zealand Police. He spent over two decades working at the sharp end of human conflict. His insights into how your brain works and responds in daily situations provided insights for people to manage conflict and reduce stress in their working day.

Applied Technologies for New Zealand Log Conditions: Nik Moore

(Tui Technology) and Brian Russell (Contempo Lab) highlighted case studies of local manufacturers on methods and results for ground-truthing and auditing AI solutions, using real human experts to ensure the technologies are delivering the results on local species like Radiata Pine.

Biochar Production: Melissa Rebbeck, Business Development Manager, Metamorf Engineering from Australia, outlined client case studies for turning wood waste into wealth. Their clients are using pyrolysis technology on wood manufacturing sites for producing biochar, clean energy and carbon removal revenue simultaneously. This new technology, on a commercial scale, drew considerable interest from sawmillers.

Government Support: The event concluded with a workshop hosted by Te Uru Rākau (New Zealand Forest Service) and the Bioeconomy Science Institute, helping processors navigate funding pathways and scale innovation. The workshop was hosted

by Joe Murray Cullen in association with Henri Ballieres from the Bioeconomy Science Institute.

The biennial wood technology event was organised and delivered

by Innovatek. NZL

Log transport safety advocate honoured THE 2026 KING’S BIRTHDAY HONOURS RECOGNISED THE career and influence of one of New Zealand’s logging transport industry leaders.

Bay of Plenty-based Warwick Wilshier has been appointed a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM). He has been a log truck operator for more than 44 years and has been recognised for his services to the road freight industry.

Mr Wilshier has been a leader in efforts to raise the safety standards of log transport through governance and advocacy.

His business career began as a single truck operator in 1982, and is now one of New Zealand’s largest log truck fleet owners with more than 150 vehicles.

In 1985 he joined the New Zealand Road Transport Association Region 2 and was appointed the Region 2 representative on the Road Transport Forum in 2018.

Continuing his commitment to the national association, Mr Wilshier was appointed Chairman of the Road Transport Forum, and was Chairman of Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand from 2021 to 2024.

He is also a founding member of the Log Transport Safety Council – formed in 1996 – and its Chairman for 25 years until 2025. His leadership, commitment and passion for improving safety have helped shape the New Zealand log transport industry.

The council was established to address the safety of log trucks operating on New Zealand highways. Under Mr Wilshier’s leadership it has advocated for the increase of log truck trailer lengths to 22m, allowing for lower loads and significantly increasing the safety of the vehicles. He also led the development of new vehicle designs and driver education.

At the end of his 25 years as Chairman of the Council in 2025, log truck rollovers had reduced from 2.4 per million km to 0.3 per million km.

Mr Wilshier was a 2022 inductee into the New Zealand Road Transport Hall of Fame. NZL

Warwick Wilshier (right), with Scott O’Donnell in 2022, at Mr Wilshier’s induction the New Zealand Road Transport Hall of Fame.

July 2026 | NZ LOGGER 11

PRECISION FORESTRY

IT DOES THE THINKING. YOU DO THE FELLING

H216 H216

Whether you’re in hardwood, softwood or de task. Its simple design with excellent feed po tree harvesting.

OVERVIEW

RECOMM

Harvesting and processing 0 Whether you’re inor hardwood, softwood or de in late thinnings regeneration harvesting; productive task.

Its simple design with excellent feed po in crooked or straight wood. tree harvesting.

APPLICATIONS

H216 0

5

Hardwood harvesting OVERVIEW RECOMM Softwood harvesting Harvesting and processing 0 Multi-tree harvesting in late thinnings or regeneration Debarking Whether you’re in harvesting; productive task. Its simple d in crooked or straight wood. tree harvesting. B

5-65

APPLICATIONS

Hardwood harvesting Softwood harvesting Multi-tree harvesting Debarking

628HX 628HX

t W H OVERVIEW 0 5 Harvesting ands in late thinningsI harvesting; prod a in crooked or str it

5-65

APPLICATIONS

Hardwood harv Softwood harve Multi-tree harve Debarking

2265 kg Net Weight

The new, high-capacity 628HX harvester pr This durable head delivers impressive feed Max Hydraulic Pressure capabilities – all in one productive package

35 MPa

1300 mm

Max Grapple Opening

960 mm

OVERVIEW

RECO

The new, high-capacity 628HX harvester pr Harvesting, roadside or deck 0 ThisMaximum durable head delivers impressive feed Sawing Capacity processing capabilities – all in one productive package

20+ metric ton Carrier Size

Stem Registry

APPLICATIONS OVERVIEW

Hardwood, softwood harvesting Operator can categorise Harvesting, roadside ortrees deckto or processing a stem code processing Late or final thinnings/clear felling

GPS Data Recording

0RECO

10-7 0

Tree volume & placement recorded in Timber Maps APPLICATIONS

Hardwood, softwood harvesting or processing

Production Reporting

Late or final thinnings/clear felling

waratah.com

0

T e h c w s d is

10-7

H427X H427X

toughequipped H427X istopurpose-built for tracked machine applications. With a standard, oftwood or debarking, the agile H216 isThe perfectly handle the frameproductive and heavy-duty feed motor covers, this powerful head delivers cellent feed power, delimbing, and largeheavy-duty cut capacitytilt provide durability for extreme harvesting.

RECOMMENDED RANGE

SPECS

OVERVIEW

RECOMMENDED RANGE

SPECS

0 25 50 75 100 CMHarvesting in late thinnings; toughequipped H427X is oftwood or debarking, the agile H216 isThe perfectly topurpose-built 1495 kg /handle 3,296 lb.the for tracked machine applications. With a standard, ion 1853 kg / 4,085 lb. regeneration harvesting; Weight (option dependent, without Weight (With topsaw, HD tilt and heavy-duty tilt frame and heavy-duty feed motor covers, this powerful head delivers and wheeled machine cellent feed power, delimbing, and largetracked cut capacity provide productive rotator, link, topsaw or multi-tree feed motor covers) handling) applications. durability for extreme harvesting.

H216 0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

40

28 MPa / 4,061 psi 35 MPa / 5,076 psi

28 MPa / 4,061 psi 35 MPa / 5,076 psi

H427X5-70 cm / 2-27.6 in.

APPLICATIONS INCH

Max Hydraulic Requirements

Max Hydraulic Requirements

(Option dependent) Softwood harvesting SPECS RECOMMENDED RANGE SPECS OVERVIEW 720 mm / 28.3 in.

Mixed stand (hardwood Max Upper Delimb Opening 0 25 50 75 100 CMHarvesting in late mm / 25.6 in. thinnings; and softwood)650 harvesting Max Upper Delimb Opening 1495 kgequipped / 3,296tolb.handle the ion 1853 kg // 4,085 lb. regeneration Whether you’re in hardwood, softwood or debarking, the agile H216 is harvesting; perfectly Multi-tree harvesting Weight (option dependent, without Weight mm (With topsaw, HDin. tilt and 720 28.3 trackedand and wheeled machine The tough H427X is purpose-built for tracked machine applications. With a standard, rotator, link, topsaw or multi-tree task. Its simple design with excellent feed power, delimbing, large cut capacity provide productive feed motor covers) Max Feed Roller Opening 700 mm / 27.6 in.

Built for hardwood, softwood, applications. crooked The brotherfeed to the H425X. handling) Max Feed Roller Opening heavy-duty tilt frame andbig heavy-duty motor covers, this powerful head delivers tree harvesting.

RECOMMENDED RANGE

5-65 cmH216 / 1.9-25.6 in.

H427X

timber and everything in between.

Built for late thinnings, tracked and durability for extreme harvesting.

Whatever the bush throws at it, the wheeled machines. The H427X Max Cutting Capacity APPLICATIONS H216 handles it without breaking a was built for exactly this. With the OVERVIEW RANGE SPECS 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 RECOMMENDED 35 40 INCH Max Hydraulic Requirements sweat.

Add the optional top saw and Intelligent Harvester Control (IHC) Harvesting and processing 0 25 50 75 100 CM (Option dependent) Softwood harvesting Carrier Size Harvester Control (IHC) top delimbing knife, it automates 1495 kg / 3,296 lb. in late thinningsIntelligent or regeneration Harvesting in late thinnings; Mixed stand (hardwoodWeightregeneration (option dependent, without harvesting; harvesting; productive rotator, link, topsaw or multi-tree and you’ve got a head that handles delimbing knife pressure settings in tracked and wheeled machine and softwood) harvesting handling) in crooked or straight wood.

Max Upper Delimb Opening it all. real time. applications.

Carrier Size Multi-tree harvesting

28 MPa 750 mm / 4,061 29.5 in.psi 35 MPa / 5,076 psi 18-25 metric ton 650 / 25.6tonin.

16-25mmmetric

OVERVIEW

5-65 cm / 1.9-25.6 in.

APPLICATIONS

0

Hardwood harvesting Softwood harvesting Multi-tree harvesting Debarking

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

40

INCH

Max Cutting Capacity

Max Hydraulic Requirements

RECOMMENDED RANGE

SPECS

5-70 cm / 2-27.6 in.

28 MPa / 4,061 psi 700 mm / 27.6 in. / 5,076 psi 35 MPa Max Feed Roller Opening

feed motor covers)

Carrier Size

35 MPa / 5,076 psi

Max Feed Roller Opening

APPLICATIONS

Max Hydraulic Requirements

Softwood harvesting Mixed stand (hardwood andDelimb softwood) harvesting Max Upper Opening Max Cutting Capacity Multi-tree harvesting

in. / 25.6 in.

650 mm 5-65 cm / 1.9-25.6 in.750 mm / 29.5 700 mm / 27.6 in.

760 mm/ 28.3 / 29.9 720 mm in. in.

5-70 cm / 2-27.6 in.

18-25 metric ton

Max Upper Delimb Opening Max Cutting Capacity

720 mm / 28.3 in.

18-25 metric ton Max Feed Roller Opening

Max Feed Roller Opening

760 mm / 29.9 in.

Carrier Size

750 mm / 29.5 in.

20-30 metric 18-25 metric ton ton Max Cutting Capacity

16-25 metric18-25 ton metric ton Max Cutting Capacity

Carrier Size

Carrier Size

Max Upper Delimb Opening Weight (With topsaw, HD tilt and

Max Hydraulic Requirements (Option dependent)

Carrier Size

28 MPa 760 mm / 4,061 29.9 in.psi 35 MPa / 5,076 psi 18-25 metric ton 720 / 28.3 in.

1853 mm kg / 4,085 20-30 metriclb.ton 720 mm/ 4,061 / 28.3 28 MPa psi in.

Carrier Size Carrier Size

Carrier Size

20-30 metric ton

HX harvester provides quick and agile performance. metric As part of the all-new HX16-25 line, thetonnew 624HX is faster, smarter and stronger than ever before.

Carrier Size mpressive feeding with exceptional delimbing and felling delivers impressive log picking, feeding and handling with unmatched uptime – This powerhouse uctive package. taking your productivity to the extreme.

Carrier Size

RECOMMENDED RANGE

OVERVIEW

SPECS

RECOMMENDED RANGE

SPECS

As part of the all-new HX line, the new 624HX is faster, smarter and stronger than ever before.

HX harvester provides quick and agile performance.

0 25 50 75 100 Harvesting, CM roadside or deck 0 25 50 75 100 CM This powerhouse picking, feeding and handling with unmatched uptime – mpressive feeding with exceptional delimbing and felling delivers impressive log processing Net Weight Net Weight taking your productivity to the extreme. uctive package.

ng

ling

ng

ling

m

5390 kg / 11,883 lb.

3990 kg / 8,796 lb.

35 MPa / 5,076 psi

35 MPa / 5,076 psi

Max Hydraulic Pressure

APPLICATIONS

0RECOMMENDED 5 10 RANGE 15 20

25

30

35

40 OVERVIEW INCH

0

25

50

75

1080 mm / 42 in.

Max Delimb Opening Hardwood, softwood harvesting roadside or deck 100 Harvesting, CM processing or processing Max Feed Roller Opening Net Weight Late or final thinnings/clear felling

10-75628HX cm / 3.9-29.5 in.

0

SPECS

Max Hydraulic Pressure

1100 43 in. lb.

5390 mm kg //11,883

0RECOMMENDED 5 10 RANGE 15 20

25

30

35

40

INCH

SPECS

Max Delimb Opening

8-76624HX cm / 3-30 in.

0

25

50

75

100

1025 mm / 40 in.

3990 mm kg //8,796 1100 43 in.lb.

CM

Net MaxWeight Feed Roller Opening

The 628HX is everything you’d The 624HX is everything you would As part of the all-new HX line, the new 624HX is faster, smarter and stronger than ever before. expect from a Waratah large capacity expect a Waratah 600feeding seriesand handling with unmatched This powerhouse deliversfrom impressive log picking, uptime – Max Sawing Capacity Max Sawing Hydraulic Pressure Hydraulic Pressure Max Capacity head and then some. A 980mm saw head. More taking your productivity to the torque, extreme. greater rotate APPLICATIONS capacity, 1080mm delimb opening power and improved fuel35 efficiency, 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 INCH 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 40 INCH Carrier Sizeharvesting Max Delimb Opening Max Delimb with the competence to deliverHardwood, the all in a redesigned frame built for softwood Carrier Size Opening speed and power your operation extreme applications. or processing demands on 43+ metric ton carriers. If your current head Harvesting, roadside or deck 0 25 50 75 100 CM Max Feed Roller Opening Max Feed Roller Opening 3990 kg / 8,796 lb.

Lateone or works final thinnings/clear fellingprocessing is working hard in big timber, this harder.

10-75 cm / 3.9-29.5 in.

980 mm / 5,076 39 in. psi 35 MPa

35 825MPa mm / 5,076 32.5 in.psi

43+ 1080 metric mm / 42tonsin.

1100 mm / 43 in.

1025 metric mm / 40 35+ tonsin.

OVERVIEW

980 mm / 39 in.

8-76 cm / 3-30 in.

1100 mm / 43 in.

RECOMMENDED RANGE

SPECS

Net Weight

825 mm / 32.5 35 MPa / 5,076in. psi

Max Sawing Capacity

Max Hydraulic Pressure Max Sawing Capacity APPLICATIONS

softwood harvesting 43+ metric tons Hardwood, or processing Carrier Size

Late or final thinnings/clear felling

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

40

INCH

1025 mm / 40 in.

35+ metric tons Max Delimb Opening

mm / 43 in.

343 1550 8-76 cm / 3-30 in. P: 071100 825 mm / 32.5 in.

Carrier Size

Max Feed Roller Opening

E: waratahnzhelpdesk@waratah.com Max Sawing Capacity

35+ metric tons Carrier Size

Iron Test

Stor

A

a f o

tos: Tim y & pho

an Bensem

e n i h c ma

Tigercat’s Aaron Gregan and CablePrice’s Tyler Allen with the Tigercat mulching head.

BANNER BANNER BANNER 111

B

EST EST EST 1909 1909 1909

THE THE THE SUPPLIER SUPPLIER SUPPLIER TOTO NEW TO NEW NEW ZEALAND ZEALAND ZEALAND HEAVY HEAVY HEAVY INDUSTRY INDUSTRY INDUSTRY 14 NZ LOGGER | July 2026

Iron Tester, Tony Hill, heads back up the slope after the test.

BANNER BANNER BANNER 1 21 W

EST EST 1909 1909

THE THE SUPPLIER SUPPLIER TO NEW TO NEW ZEALAND ZEALAND HEAVY HEAVY INDUSTRY INDUSTRY

July 2026 | NZ LOGGER 15

Above: Tigercat’s Aaron Gregan and CablePrice’s Tyler Allen approaching the Falcon Winch-Assisted Tigercat L870D and mulcher.

Below: Challenging terrain as Iron Tester, Tony Hill, and the Tigercat mulcher go to work near Gisborne.

YOU KNOW IT’S GOING TO BE AN INTERESTING DAY IN THE forest when the forest gate is over the road from Gisborne’s Eastwood Hill Arboretum – basically a zoo, but for trees – and the first road you drive up is Mad Mutt Rd. The hills get steadily steeper and bigger, and we finally park up at the tethered mulcher operation which is in some rather confronting terrain.

Regular operator Cory Malcolm is an interesting character. The son of a blacksmith who travelled to a lot of the back blocks locations around Gisborne when horses were the main mode of transport, he was inspired to work in rural areas and the next best option for him was logging crews, culminating in years spent on a tether, harvesting trees.

“I got a bit fed up with the carnage I was creating, as I saw it, so when this job was advertised, I thought ‘yeah, I’m up for that’, and honestly it’s the best move,” he says. “You get to improve your environment every day, and at the end of the day you can look back on your work, see harmless woodchips for miles, and say ‘yeah, I made a difference’.”

Also on the site with us today is Tigercat’s Aaron Gregan who

BANNER BANNER BANNER 1 31 W

says this L870D mulcher is one of a kind globally. He says this base usually runs a disc saw, so is well suited to the role, providing plenty of juice on the business end, and a short and sturdy boom.

Last but not least is Tigercat dealership CablePrice’s representative, Tyler Allen. Tyler enjoys getting into the back country and meeting the cool characters in both logging and farming when delivering new machines to CablePrice’s customers.

We have been wanting to look at this Tigercat mulcher at Speirs Logging for ages. The Tigercat model 4161-15 mulcher head is running on a 370HP 36 tonne leveller. The Tigercat FPT (Fiat Powertrain Technologies) engine is specifically designed to deliver high power density, quick load response and excellent fuel economy for heavyduty forestry applications.

Company founded on family farm Blake and Caree Speirs are the owners of Speirs Logging Ltd, based in Gisborne. Blake’s father, Murray Speirs, founded the company in Waitārere Beach on the lower North Island, near Levin, around 1998. The business began as a small family operation focused on harvesting and processing trees from the family farm. In its early

SERIOUS POWER BIG TIME LOGGERS

EST EST 1909 1909 |TOCALL WWW.SHAWS.CO.NZ JONNY EDWARDS 021 944 894 THE THE SUPPLIER SUPPLIER NEW TO NEW ZEALAND ZEALAND HEAVY HEAVY INDUSTRY INDUSTRY 16 NZ LOGGER | July 2026

Above (left and right): It’s a long way down. Tony Hill tackles some more forest residue during the test.

Below: The Tigercat/Falcon combo getting ready to launch. years, Speirs Logging worked primarily on woodlots, servicing various sites across the lower North Island.

As demand grew, the company expanded its operations to include two hauler crews and one ground-based crew, servicing the Wellington and Wairarapa regions. In 2010, a significant transition occurred when one crew was relocated to Gisborne. At that point, Blake and his wife Caree took ownership of the company, marking the beginning of a new chapter for Speirs Logging.

For the first five years in Gisborne, the company operated as a swing yarder crew before shifting to a road line configuration to better meet the needs of its clients and the terrain. Today, Speirs Logging operates as a road line clear fell operation, utilising a combination of yarding and ground-based equipment. Speirs Logging also holds the road building contract for its operations, which is currently managed by an external subcontractor.

The company processes approximately 200,000 tonnes of wood annually and employs a dedicated team of 16. The Tigercat fleet is comprised of a Tigercat LS855E shovel logger, a newer LS857 shovel logger, two Tigercat 635 series skidders and a new Tigercat L870D track carrier fitted with a 4161-15 mulching head.

Operating in the Gisborne region presents a unique set of challenges due to steep terrain, poor soil conditions and, over the past few years,

consistently high rainfall. These factors demand robust, reliable equipment capable of performing in this environment. Around 90% of the company’s operations require winch-assisting, particularly in high risk areas where the terrain is more unstable or challenging.

“Our harvesting operation includes both cable extraction and steep slope ground-based logging, with the support of winchassist technology to enhance safety and productivity on challenging terrain,” says Blake. “This approach enables us to maintain consistent output while prioritising environmental care and crew wellbeing.”

A well co-ordinated system The Speirs Logging team works a structured 10 hour day, typically achieving 85-90% machine availability after factoring in maintenance time and operator breaks. The crew runs a well co-ordinated system, falling and extracting a 500m section of the road line, then relocating the crew and equipment to allow the road building subcontractor to come in. Minimal downtime helps to ease and simplify scheduling between the harvesting and road building crews.

In 2023, Cyclone Gabrielle devastated parts of the Gisborne area. The cyclone had a significant impact on the region, leading to increased

SERIOUS POWER FOR BIGLOGGERS TIME LOGGERS SERIOUS POWER FOR BIG TIME

BANNER BANNER BANNER 1 41

B

ALWAYS SWING A BIG STICK

EST EST 1909 1909 | TOCALL WWW.SHAWS.CO.NZ JONNY EDWARDS 021 944944 894894 WWW.SHAWS.CO.NZ JONNY EDWARDS 021 THE THE SUPPLIER SUPPLIER NEW TOCALL NEW ZEALAND ZEALAND HEAVY HEAVY INDUSTRY INDUSTRY 18 NZ LOGGER | July 2026

Above left: Operator, Cory Malcolm, and Tyler Allen from Cable Price discuss the next job for the Tigercat mulcher.

Above right (From left): Tony Hill, Cory Malcolm, Aaron Gregan and Tyler Allen discuss the mulching operation. scrutiny and tighter compliance regulations across the forestry industry nationwide. Leftover harvesting residue suddenly became a matter of the utmost urgency and significance. The event highlighted the need for higher standards in slash management and erosion control, pushing everyone in the sector to raise their game.

There is now a stronger collective focus on pro-active risk management and environmental responsibility. The steep terrain mulching system is one of the ways Tigercat is responding – offering a practical, forward-thinking solution that helps reduce slash-related risks and supports more sustainable forestry practices in the wake of extreme weather events.

A portion of the Radiata Pine plantations in Gisborne, Hawke’s Bay and Wairarapa is managed by Forest Enterprises. The forest management and investment services company was founded in 1972 and currently has over 20,000ha (49,400 acres) valued at NZ$400 million under management in the North Island. The company offers investors ownership in both the land and timber holdings.

Mitigating potential impact of slash Speirs Logging has been contracted to Forest Enterprises with a specific focus on reducing risk in potentially hazardous cutblocks.

“Our primary objective is to mitigate the potential impact of slash and erosion on steep or sensitive terrain. Using drone technology, we conduct aerial surveys of cutover sites to identify areas where slash volumes are particularly high. From there, we strategically deploy the Tigercat L870D equipped with the 4161-15 mulching head to reduce that material, aiming to minimise the volume left on the hill,

especially in locations prone to landslips.”

Tigercat’s Warren Nolan has been a key part of the mulcher story, working closely with Speirs Logging to help make the project work.

“This proactive approach helps prevent debris movement during heavy rain events and improves site stability,” he says. “Additionally, the mulched material supports better conditions for second rotation growth and delivers environmental benefits such as reduced runoff and improved ground cover.”

Blake explains further: “By laying down mulch mats over gullies and exposed soils, we help to minimise erosion and retain moisture.

When it rains, the mulch absorbs the water, preventing it from washing away the soil and promoting better land stability.”

Blake says Forest Enterprises has been very good about sharing the mulcher around with other forest companies.

“We now have a working relationship with most of the forest companies in the region which has been really good.”

Historically, the responsibility for slash management has fallen to either the forest owners or the contractors themselves. In many cases, this meant absorbing the cost through reduced productivity, where machinery and crews would need to divert time and resources to manually move slash to safer areas.

Support for positive environmental outcomes With the introduction of this dedicated mulching operation, Speirs Logging aims to significantly reduce both the operational burden and the associated risks. By pro-actively targeting high risk zones, the goal is to provide a more efficient, cost-effective solution that

Below from left: The Tigercat FPT C87 engine; The well-positioned filter stack; The cooling fan and left side of the engine.

BANNER BANNER BANNER 1 51

MADE IN CANADA FOR NZ CONDITIONS

EST EST 1909 1909 |TO CALL WWW.SHAWS.CO.NZ JONNY EDWARDS 021 944 894 THE THE SUPPLIER SUPPLIER NEW TO NEW ZEALAND ZEALAND HEAVY HEAVY INDUSTRY INDUSTRY

July 2026 | NZ LOGGER 19

Above: The hydraulic pump stack on the Tigercat L870D (left); Operator, Cory Malcolm, stows some tools after some scheduled maintenance (right). not only improves safety, but also supports positive environmental outcomes across the forest estate.

Machine productivity can vary depending on the terrain and conditions, but overall, Speirs Logging is achieving the results it budgeted for.

“We find that wood in the 20-30cm (8-12inch) diameter range is the most productive for our operations. Larger diameter wood takes longer to process, although we can still handle stumps effectively with the mulching teeth. Our focus isn’t to mulch everything. Rather, we’re targeting high risk areas where the land is more likely to shift,” explains Blake.

While the creation of windrows increases costs, due to the additional work involved in forming them, it has led to an overall increase in production. By setting up windrows, the mulcher carrier can process more volume with fewer movements, allowing the operator to focus more on masticating with far less machine travel.

However, it’s crucial to get the direction of the windrows right. Properly positioned windrows help to avoid mulched material accumulation in sensitive areas such as waterways and roads, ensuring the company maintains environmental compliance and prevents potential damage to the surrounding landscape.

Blake chose the Tigercat L870D, equipped with the 4161-15 mulching head, primarily because it offered the highest hydraulic flow of any comparable machine on the market, an essential feature for efficient and effective mulching performance.

“Having operated various Tigercat machines over the years,

we’ve consistently experienced strong reliability and performance, particularly in challenging conditions,” says Blake. “Tigercat machines are exceptionally well suited to steep terrain, offering excellent stability on the hill – something that’s critical for our operations in the Gisborne region. This combination of power, flow capacity and slope stability made this mulcher package the ideal choice for our needs.”

Tackling variable terrain When mulching material that is spread over a cutblock, medium grade, impact resistant tools are used on the mulching head. This set-up allows the head to work through variable terrain, including areas with hard soil, without experiencing excessive wear or damage to the tooling. When the machine transitions to processing large slash piles, the tooling is switched to sharper, knife-style tools.

These are better suited for high volume mulching where there’s less risk of hitting dirt or rocks, ensuring cleaner cuts and greater efficiency in breaking down the material. This dual tool approach gives Speirs Logging the flexibility to adapt to different conditions and slash types, while maximising performance and longevity.

Blake has seen a significant increase in productivity since the Feed Control Rotor system (FCR) was added. The FCR system utilises a drum with rakers installed that effectively limits the engagement of the tools, reducing the potential for stalling out the drum, while making the operator’s job easier.

“Since adding the rakers and adjusting to the right set of teeth,

The cutover is not for the faint hearted.

BANNER BANNER BANNER 1 31 W

SERIOUS POWER BIG TIME LOGGERS

EST EST 1909 1909 |TOCALL WWW.SHAWS.CO.NZ JONNY EDWARDS 021 944 894 THE THE SUPPLIER SUPPLIER NEW TO NEW ZEALAND ZEALAND HEAVY HEAVY INDUSTRY INDUSTRY 20 NZ LOGGER | July 2026

Above left: Tony Hill gets a last-minute briefing on the controls before heading down the slope.

Above right: When the mulcher is working, the atmosphere is about 50% woodchips. we’ve noticed a substantial improvement, especially in handling larger material. I estimate that the rakers have boosted productivity by about 30%,” says Blake. “The key benefit is that the rakers allow the machine to take smaller bites and prevent it from stalling out.

For our operations, the rakers have proven to be the right solution.”

In Blake’s view, the Tigercat L870D simply isn’t comparable to a standard excavator fitted with a mulching head. The key differences include the levelling system and the 370hp (276kW) engine output, which gives the Tigercat a significant advantage, especially on steep and uneven terrain. The added power, stability and control not only improve operator safety but also allow for more efficient and precise mulching in challenging environments.

The Speirs Logging operators are very positive about the

Tigercat machines. One of the standout features for them is the high level of comfort in the cab, which makes a big difference over long shifts.

“When you’re working in demanding conditions for extended periods, operator comfort isn’t just a bonus, it’s essential.

Tigercat delivers on that, contributing to both productivity and overall job satisfaction,” says Blake. “Tigercat machines are purpose built for the demanding work we do. They stand out for their excellent fuel efficiency, robust construction and superior stability, especially on steep terrain where levelling is essential.

In our experience, Tigercat equipment handles tough conditions better than many other brands, and that performance translates directly into safer, more productive operation.”

Iron Tester: Tony Hill

Smooth carpet from messy residue THIS SITE OFFERS A UNIQUE TEST. There are no trees to fall, only mulch.

This machine is a beast.

It has a lot of power driving the big mulching head. It’s impressive to chew a root ball or any sized wood in a few seconds. The tilting head makes it easier while on the tether. A steep hill can easily be mulched with the head being able to tilt in all four directions.

The base machine is stable with the short boom, it doesn’t rock around at full reach, and it also has enough muscle while on a steep face to slew out full reach

on the sidling and be smooth to move around.

The difference between the cutover you move into before mulching, and the final result, is impressive. It turns the messy cutover, with heads or trees and root balls, into a smooth carpet of chipped wood. It actually looks like someone’s developing the land. Anything the head gets put into just turns to chip. My guess is the next generation of trees will get an even better head start for their growth, with the chip breaking down faster for nutrients etc.

It would be a lot more productive for the

Iron Tester, Tony Hill. next people in line that plant the cut face, without all the slash and heavy pockets of wood being left behind. So, it will be faster and safer for anyone that’s planting or walking around the cutover.

I did think the mulcher would struggle a bit without the pines standing, with more surface water about etc. You can’t bind like you would to fell it, because the trees are gone, but the Tigercat gets around pretty well and can target a lot of risk areas, and with the thumb behind the mulcher head, it’s enough to pull itself around pretty strongly. Obviously, you’re not going to go and hit a swamp or blind area without the lead from the tether, but beyond that, everything’s pretty doable.

Good team work with the harvest crews to maybe put the heavier slash into

Above from left: The view from the operator’s seat; The comfortable Tigercat cab; The side door on the Tigercat L870D.

BANNER BANNER BANNER 11 31 W

The heel-like nature of the mulcher makes an ideal stability tool; once it is lifted, the machine starts to slide and the Falcon Winch-Assist unit takes over.

SERIOUS POWER BIG TIME LOGGERS

EST EST EST 1909 1909 1909 | WWW.SHAWS.CO.NZ CALL JONNY EDWARDS 021 944 894 THE THE THE SUPPLIER SUPPLIER SUPPLIER TOTO NEW TO NEW NEW ZEALAND ZEALAND ZEALAND HEAVY HEAVY HEAVY INDUSTRY INDUSTRY INDUSTRY 22 NZ LOGGER | July 2026

IFICATION

SPEC S

TIGERCAT L870D AND TIGERCAT 4161-15 MULCHING HEAD – SPECIFICATIONS ENGINE

UNDERCARRIAGE

Tigercat FPT C87 Tier 4f 8.71 Litre diesel 245kw 330HP

R7-163L Super-duty forestry, integral track guides, ramp angles, tractive effort 367 kN (82,600 lbf) Ground Clearance 680mm Max speed 3.7kph Max Reach 8.46 Weight less head 36,680kg Tigercat 4161-15 mulching head weight 3330kg 40,010kg Total operating weight Mulching width 1500mm

REFILL CAPACITIES (LITRES) Fuel tank Hydraulic tank HYDRAULIC SYSTEM Five piston hydraulic pumps

places where the mulcher can get to it easily, instead of pulling it up the hill and struggling, would make the future logging a bit more profitable and easier for both harvest and post-harvest operations.

Cab layout and comfort is top tier in any Tigercat, and this one doesn’t disappoint.

The access points are easy and safe to get around the machine, and the bonnet set up allows for really easy maintenance or

1085 300

repairs for everything on the base.

The short boom gives it a compact stance on the hill, really stable, and having the bottom of the attachment with some teeth and wide flat spade, it can be used as a strong heel to pull itself up rough terrain and easy to pivot tracks around.

While I was operating the machine, the Speirs Logging boys called me on the Starlink phone for a check in. Really good

comms while working alone, mulching post-harvest cutovers.

It leaves really small chip behind, and throws the wood out for miles. It’s impressive.

The teeth on the mulcher are easy to access and check for replacement, and the grease set-up for the attachment is really easy and not over board. Overall, a very effective machine. NZL

DIAGNOSE • DESIGN • DELIVER

Special Feature

Story: Stuart Whitaker

EVERYTHING

W

HEN CONTRACTOR TONY HILL NEEDED A SWING YARDER urgently to keep his forestry operation alive, he found himself reaching back to a conversation he'd had five years earlier.

But it wasn't a finance broker or a bank manager he called for help. It was Frankie Davidson.

Tony was running a harvesting crew for Kuru Contracting when he first crossed paths with Frankie, co-owner of TDF Solutions.

“Ricky Kuru rang me out of the blue and said, ‘I've got some fellas coming up and they want to spend the day with you and see how your crew operates’,” Tony recalls.

One of those visitors was Frankie Davidson.

“Ricky said, ‘he’s a really good man to know – one day you might need him’. We ended up spending quite a day nosing around and stuff.”

During the visit, the conversation turned to Tony's future.

26 NZ LOGGER | July 2026

“He asked me what my goals were. I told him straight up – I wanted to own my own crew one day.”

Frankie liked what he saw.

“He said, ‘good on you. I think you're going to do it. Here's my number – if you ever need anything, give me a call’.”

For the next five years, neither man picked up the phone. Then winter arrived. And everything changed.

A business at a crossroads By winter 2025, Tony had established his own operation and was running two crews. But a wet season threatened to bring everything to a standstill.

“We were road line logging and it just got too wet,” he says. “We couldn't get roads in, the ground-based crew was grinding to a halt and we were running out of trees.”

The options weren't appealing.

“We could have parked up and probably waited for a slow death,” says Tony.

Instead, an opportunity emerged to take over a yarding contract within the forest. The challenge was that Tony needed a swing yarder – and he needed it fast.

That's when he remembered Frankie.

“I knew if anyone could help, it would be TDF. “Frankie still had my number and remembered who I was, and we went from there. Straight away I got the help and turned around a swing yarder in about three weeks.”

A locally available Madill 123 swing yarder had come onto the market.

“I just gave them the lead on it – I said look there’s a swinger local, it’s a good machine, it’s got good bones, I know the yarder, can we jump on this?”

TDF identified the opportunity immediately and moved quickly.

“Frankie knew the machine and knew it was a good buy,” says Tony. “They didn't hesitate. They said, ‘yes, we can make this work’.”

Around three weeks later, the deal was completed and the machine

The urgently-required swing yarder leaving the East Cape heading to Te Rata.

July 2026 | NZ LOGGER 27

Special Feature

was operating. For Tony, the speed of the process was just as important as the machine itself.

“I'd only owned the crew for about eight months. A traditional lender probably would have taken a lot longer, if they approved it at all.”

The yarder didn't just solve a machinery problem, it kept the business moving.

Building more than machinery ownership The machine was financed through TDF's lease-to-purchase programme, giving Tony access to critical equipment while simultaneously building equity and establishing a proven repayment history.

TDF Solutions Sales Representative, Scott Bonnington.

According to TDF Sales and Technical Representative, Paul Laird, that's a key part of the model.

“What Tony is doing is building equity in the machine while also demonstrating a strong payment history. That puts him in a much stronger position when it's time to transition to mainstream finance.”

Tony agrees.

“If you knuckle down for the year and make it work, you're proving to yourself and everybody else that you can handle these bigger commitments.”

For him, however, the relationship extended beyond finance.

“It probably comes back to the fact Frankie trusted me. He'd watched my journey over the years and believed it was a worthwhile long-term relationship.”

TDF Solutions Sales and Technical Representative, Paul Laird.

The skid site at Te Rata with Mount Arowhana in the background.

28 NZ LOGGER | July 2026

Far left: The swing yarder at Te Rata.

Left: Aerial photo of the skid site at Te Rata.

Right:The SanySY245F and Falcon Winch Assist on delivery day.

Far right: Delivery day barbecue.

That relationship quickly extended to Paul Laird.

“Frankie told me, ‘Paul's your man’. We linked up straight away and just clicked.”

Today, the conversations continue long after the paperwork is signed.

“I ring him once or twice a week, even if it's just for a yarn.”

It's a level of support Tony says is difficult to put a value on.

“Paul's seen hundreds of logging operations. I can bounce ideas off him, ask questions and learn from what he's seeing across the industry.”

And the conversations work both ways.

“If he's got an idea, he'll run it past me too. Sometimes you can solve a lot of problems with a simple phone call.”

More than a finance company That level of involvement reflects the culture at TDF Solutions.

While Scott Bonnington's business card says Sales Representative, he laughs at the simplicity of the title.

“To be fair, we do a bit of everything,” he says, “planning,

accounts, machinery appraisals, customer support, technical advice, problem-solving – whatever the customer needs.”

The same applies to Paul Laird.

“We're often helping with machinery setup, business planning, policy development, costings or implementation. If there's a gap, we try to fill it.”

In reality, their role is simple.

“We're solution providers.”

The company's approach is deliberately hands-on.

“We don't just hand over a machine and walk away,” says Scott.

“We work alongside customers throughout the journey.”

That support often extends well beyond the lease term.

“If a machine came through TDF, we still consider it one of ours.

If there's a problem, we'll advocate for the customer and help find a solution.”

Built for an industry in transition Founded in 2017, TDF Solutions was created to help forestry contractors access increasingly sophisticated and expensive machinery.

Universal hanger options available

For more information or to request a quote, phone 027 324 9091 or email parts@3dindustrial.nz www.cdl.nz

BUILT STRONG FOR NZ CONDITIONS

NZ MADE

UNIVERSAL HANGER OPTIONS AVAILABLE

EASE OF MAINTENANCE

POWDER COATED COMPONENTS

SAME DAY DISPATCH ON ALL PARTS

HARD FACING IS STANDARD

Special Feature

Above: The Madill 123 acquired with the assistance of TDF Solutions (left); One of Tony Hill’s two crews – from left, Dan Brady, Glen Nom, Kale Van der Hulle, Tarquin Rigby, Rob Hill and Nui the dog (right).

Below: The Madill 123 at work.

As mechanisation accelerated and winch-assist technology became more common, contractors were faced with equipment investments often exceeding $1 million.

For many businesses, finding a substantial deposit while maintaining cashflow created a significant barrier.

TDF's model was designed to remove that obstacle.

Rather than requiring large upfront deposits, customers can access equipment through structured lease-to-purchase arrangements that allow equity to accumulate throughout the term. By the end of the agreement, customers have both a proven trading history and accumulated equity – two key ingredients that can support a transition to conventional finance.

“We've effectively helped de-risk the investment,” says Scott.

A trusted partner The relationship proved its value once again when prolonged periods of strong winds created new challenges for Tony's operation in the Mangatau Block near the Raukumara Range which, because of its

altitude catches the wind from virtually every direction.

Needing a tether machine urgently, he once again turned to TDF. “I needed a tether as fast as I could get one,” he says. “The turnaround was incredibly quick.”

The machine this time was the Falcon Winch Assist fitted to a SanySY245F that was the subject of an Iron Test in the April 2026 edition of NZ Logger.

“I was under the pump because our forest seemed to have three months of wind in a row – it was blowing our trees over, and I was struggling to get the wood in with the swing yarder crew because it’s so steep.”

For Tony, that responsiveness, combined with technical knowledge and ongoing support, sets TDF apart.

“Efficiency, reliability and support – those are the three big things.

“They're positive people, passionate about the industry, and they speak the same language because they've worked in the field.”

Most importantly, he says, they understand the realities contractors face.

We and We offe and pro offe Zea pro Ma Zea the Ma sim the and sim driv and driv Con For Con new For Skid new Bun Skid Bun

080 ww 080 ww 30 NZ LOGGER | July 2026

“TDF already knows the position I'm in and why I'm doing it. I don't need to explain it.”

Brought up in the Hawke’s Bay, Tony has been in the forestry industry a long time, starting out as a skidder operator at 15 before expanding his experience and skill with Clayton Hagan.

But even well before he left school, he was out in the forest as often as he could be.

“It’s always been my dream since I was a kid, I never wanted to do anything else. I left school as early as I could to get into the bush.”

As the forestry sector continues to navigate challenging market conditions, rising costs and operational pressures, Tony remains optimistic.

“There are still good opportunities out there. If you can get through the tough times, you come out stronger and more resilient.”

And with two crews operating and his childhood dream now a reality, he's determined to keep moving forward.

“I never wanted to do anything else.

“As long as we're operating efficiently, supporting our people and building a strong business, that's what drives me.”

For Tony Hill, a connection made five years previously became much more than a useful contact. It became a partnership that helped keep a business moving when it mattered most. NZL

The Madill 123 swing yarder on site.

SIMPLICITY, PERFORMANCE, POWER

WEILER FORESTRY DELIVERS SIMPLICITY, PERFORMANCE, POWER

Weiler is a leading engineering and manufacturing company Weiler leading engineering offeringisaafull line of forestry and manufacturing company products designed with New offering full lineinofmind. forestry Zealand aloggers products designed New Make them rugged,with make Zealand loggers in mind. them perform, and keep them Make rugged, make simplethem are common requests, them perform, andwhat keep them and that is exactly simple are common requests, drives Weiler’s design. and that is exactly what drives Weiler’s design.

Contact us about Weiler Forestry solutions – the Contact usGeneration about Weiler new Next Weiler Forestry solutions the Skidders and Track–Feller new Next are Generation Weiler Bunchers available now.

Skidders and Track Feller Bunchers are available now.

0800 93 39 39 www.terracat.co.nz 0800 93 39 39 www.terracat.co.nz

WEILER FORESTRY DELIVERS

NEW!

Next Generation Weiler Skidders and Track Feller Bunchers are available now.

Breaking Out

32 NZ LOGGER | July 2026

By Paul MacDonald

A diesel-electric hybrid grapple yarder from T-Mar Industries is now working in British Columbia’s coastal forest, and it has the potential to cut fuel and maintenance costs, helping to make coastal logging more cost effective.

H

YBRID CARS AND TRUCKS SEEM TO be everywhere these days – but a hybrid piece of logging equipment recently started working in the forests on the British Columbia coast, and it’s getting some attention.

It all started with a mini, unintentional demo in the yard of T-Mar Industries of Campbell River, on BC’s Vancouver Island, a couple of years ago.

Family-owned T-Mar Industries is a long-time supplier to the forest industry, meeting the needs of BC loggers – and loggers as far afield as New Zealand – with heavy duty logging equipment that the company manufactures, and rebuilds, in Campbell River, such as grapple yarders, grapples and related logging equipment.

In other words, they deal big time in the heavy duty equipment required for steep slope yarding.

For those unfamiliar with the equipment, Tyson Lambert, Vice-President of T-Mar, described grapple yarding as a “zip line for logs”. Cables are laid out over a steep slope area from the grapple yarder, logs are attached to a grapple that rides the

cables and reeled back in. Grapple yarders are used in areas that are inaccessible to conventional machinery, such as skidders.

“We’ve been around for 40 years, producing equipment,” explains Tyson.

“And we’re always looking for ways to improve on our designs.

“And the idea of doing something hybrid came up in our engineering department a few years ago, what with all the electric powertrain parts that were becoming available.”

The thinking was that perhaps the traditional powertrain components that T-Mar had been using for many years could be replaced with new electrical drive technologies.

“We started doing a little research on it, and we had had an engineer, Philip Biebach, that was pretty conversant in that hybrid world, and had done some of that work in the past. We started out by designing and building a small prototype, just to make sure that these types of drives and components would work in a grapple yarder.”

At its core, the hybrid concept was solid,

since a grapple yarder is a regenerative machine – it can utilize regenerative braking to recapture energy that would otherwise be spent keeping the cables tight, and convert it into electrical energy to reuse. They built the prototype, and it worked really well – better than they expected, says Tyson.

“We were doing that on our own, and Dorian Uzzell and the people from Wahkash Contracting came to visit the shop one day.

“We had the prototype set up in the yard, and we were simulating pulling in logs – and the Wahkash guys went on the controls, and had a go at it. Dorian and the guys were so impressed with what they saw that day that they commissioned us to build a full-scale working hybrid grapple yarder, using the technology.”

When it comes to BC coastal logging, Wahkash Contracting, also based in Campbell River, knows its stuff. For 35 years, it has been providing stump to dump logging services in remote locations throughout coastal British Columbia. When it comes to dealing with grapple yarders, it has been there, and done that, for many

Left: The grapple yarder working for Wahkash Contracting in a remote area of Vancouver Island. The work site is a several-hours' journey by boat.

Right: The diesel-electric hybrid yarder has already received interest from New Zealand and American loggers.

July 2026 | NZ LOGGER 33

Breaking Out

The design team and mechanics in front of the diesel-electric hybrid yarder’s drives.

years. It speaks a lot about the work T-Mar had done, and their business relationship, that Dorian and Wahkash would commit to a hybrid machine based on a prototype – and an unintentional demo in the T-Mar yard.

Wahkash, which has a fleet of coastal logging equipment, was looking to re-power one of their existing grapple swing yarders, a Cypress 7280. The Cypress machines, built in the 1980s and 1990s, are quite common on the BC coast, and are robust workhorses. They are the giants of BC coastal logging – weighing in at 190,000lbs, and equipped with a 70-foot boom.

“Instead of just rebuilding it, though, Wahkash wanted us to put the best technology in the yarder,” says Tyson. “We said, ‘OK, based on the hybrid work we’ve done, it will be easy to do that’. It wasn’t as easy as we thought it would be,” he quickly adds.

They worked on it for two years, and last summer it was at the point that the hybrid machine was ready to go logging.

“It is,” says Tyson, “the first machine of its type in the world.”

34 NZ LOGGER | July 2026

To build the hybrid yarder, T-Mar had to develop the drives that were going to drive the large winches on the machine.

“We had to build everything that makes the powertrain work – we could not just go to a drive supplier, and purchase their industrial drives and put it in the yarder, because nothing would fit. We designed and built all the electrical, the drive, the cabling and components.”

They could buy the specialised, high power electrical motors – “everything else, we had to build ourselves”.

They initially built a 1/5 size, working prototype, which helped tremendously, says Tyson.

“It was a lot of learning along the way because this is the first time anyone has done it,” he said. “We figured out the sizing of components based on how fast or slow the machine needs to go – it was really the nuts and bolts of it. We needed to know the specifics on what an average turn cycle on a grapple yarder actually looks like so we can build equipment that meets that need.”

The learnings from the prototype were passed on to the production machine,

which is now out in the BC woods, grappling logs on Vancouver Island, for Wahkash.

Even though T-Mar has a very impressive history of equipment innovation for the forest industry, tackling such groundbreaking work was a big challenge.

“It was daunting at the beginning, it was daunting in the middle, and only now is it becoming less daunting, now that we’ve done the machine.”

The 7280E diesel-electric hybrid yarder is powered by T-Mar developed and built Infinity 1132 drives. The drums on the machines are completely electrically driven, as is the interlock. Each drum features a dual motor drive. Each drive is capable of 1140hp, and a little over 125,000 foot pds of torque. The slack line puller features a single-motor drive.

The generator sits where the transmission/torque convertor used to be on the machine. The generator is connected to the engine through the pump box assembly.

“This set-up allows us to run the engine at any speed we want and generate the voltage we want. So, the engine can be throttled up and down, and it can still

be making power and running loads dynamically. It allows us to run the machine very economically.”

Big picture, it was important, also, to realize that some of the suppliers for conventional components were nearing the end of their product development cycles – making moving ahead with new technology even more imperative.

“With major components, the clutches we use to manufacture grapple yarders were getting harder to get, with longer lead times, and with transmissions, some companies were starting to leave the market,” says Tyson. “All sorts of components are becoming harder to get, because other industries that also use these components, such as oil and gas and mining, are moving to similar technologies: electrostatic or hybrid drivetrains.”

At one point, though it may be quite a bit further into the future, it may not be possible to get some of these components, at all.

“It seemed like there will come a day when we would not be able to buy the components we need to build the machines the way we build them now, or customers might not be able to use them because they could not train people quickly enough, or they required too much maintenance, so the cost of using them would fall out of line with where the market was at.”

For the forest industry as a whole, finding, and training, operators is an ongoing challenge. The hybrid yarder is easier to operate, and more intuitive, than traditional yarders, with very user-friendly operator controls. In this respect, it was a matter of T-Mar seeing where things were going – before they got there.

“I thought that not doing anything posed a much bigger risk for T-Mar, than trying to move the industry forward in a meaningful way,” says Tyson. “There was risk everywhere, but the risk of doing nothing was always higher.”

In terms of development and manufacturing the machine, Lambert said the whole process involved a lot of plain hard work.

“There were many things around it that we were going, ‘ok, how do we approach this or that’ – but we have an excellent engineering team and shop at T-Mar.” There is a real sense of pride in what T-Mar has been able to achieve.

“I can’t overstate how proud our crew is that this technology was designed and produced here for a local logger, and the BC logging industry will be the first to use

The new T-Mar Industries diesel-electric hybrid grapple yarder.

a machine like this that was built right here in BC. “One of the things that made this project less daunting was the support of Wahkash Contracting – they have been very accommodating and 100 per cent supportive all the way through, from commissioning us to do the project, to helping us set it up to test.”

And Mosaic Forest Products, who Wahkash does most of its logging for, also supported the project. They also received some federal government funding, which helped with some of the costs.

“You roll all of that together, and all of this really made the project possible,” explained Tyson. “We could not have done this on our own without everyone who has been part of it, helping along the way. A lot of people and organizations wanted us to succeed at this, and we are very grateful for their support.

“The real prize for us at T-Mar is that we can now take that technology and integrate it into the new machines we build here, going forward. Our intention was always to use this machine as a platform for the machines we build here.

“We were really fortunate to have a stepping stone along the way, with the conversion for Wahkash, so we could focus on the power train for an existing machine, which was a lot of learning and a lot of work. And that, of course, will also be available for the other machines that could be converted.”

So, what has the end result been? How does the hybrid machine perform?

“I’ve personally run the yarder quite a bit in our testing, and it is incredible,” says Tyson. “It’s quick and it’s powerful, and easy to run. It doesn’t struggle to do anything – we’re really happy with the results.”

The government funding makes a lot of sense.

“We’re a Canadian manufacturer developing a technology that no one else has, that we can use here and also export.”

There is possible opportunity to transfer some of this hybrid technology for use in other industries, such as mining and marine industries, says Tyson. “It could be something the federal government could look at supporting to make sure new infrastructure projects are more efficient and make sure Canadians have the best gear to build and operate those projects.

“This is the type of equipment we need, to build Canada.”

As for the hybrid yarder, T-Mar has already received interest in the hybrid model from New Zealand and American loggers who are using their diesel-powered Log-Champ 550 and 650 yarders. One customer is looking at employing some new logging techniques that would involve the use of more powerful winches and require more control, which is right up the hybrid yarder’s alley.

First published in Canada’s Logging & Sawmilling Journal. It has since been renamed Forestnet Magazine. NZL July 2026 | NZ LOGGER 35

Breaking Out

D

ORIAN UZZELL, THE OWNER OF BRITISH COLOMBIA LOGGING operation Wahkash Contracting, was an instrumental part of the building of the first diesel-electric hybrid grapple yarder by T-Mar Industries and is the customer for the yarder.

“We are definitely excited about the hybrid yarder,” says Dorian. “There is some anxiousness about how it will perform – we’ve invested a lot in it – but I’m very confident it will perform very well.”

Over the last several years, Dorian and the Wahkash crew have been able to monitor the progress of building the yarder, and provide feedback to T-Mar. That part of it is pretty easy, considering T-Mar is down the street from the Wahkash shop, in Campbell River, on Vancouver Island.

“We could run up there and look at how things were going with Tyson and the T-Mar team,” Dorian says.

There was feedback on everything from powering the machine, to the everyday features.

“When they were configuring the new operator’s cab, we’d be able to have our operators sit in the seat and give them feedback.”

Last summer, before it went out to the bush, operators from Wahkash had the opportunity to try out the fully rebuilt 7280 hybrid yarder at the T-Mar yard.

This involved installing thousands of feet of heavy cable on the yarder’s drums, which is a process in itself, but it was well worth the effort, as the comments were positive on the machine’s performance.

Dorian sees the hybrid yarder as both part of an overall forest industry initiative to be better stewards of the land, and be more efficient and competitive. The move to a hybrid yarder was supported by Mosaic Forest Management, which manages the forest planning and operations for TimberWest and Island Timberlands on Vancouver Island.

Wahkash does most of its logging for Mosaic which has fully electric pick-up trucks as part of its fleet, and has looked into all electric logging trucks.

Wahkash was looking at rebuilding one of its 7280 grapple yarders at a cost range from $1 million to $1.4 million. They rebuild their yarders every 10 to 12 years.

Dorian Uzzell is the owner of Wahkash Contracting, which owns the yarder.

He was also instrumental in the building of the diesel-electric hybrid machine by T-Mar Industries.

36 NZ LOGGER | July 2026

“Tyson from T-Mar was proposing the hybrid machine at the time, so it aligned with what we had planned, and with about a $1.3 million budget.”

Like anyone who is investing in new technology, Dorian says there is some natural anxiety about how the new hybrid yarder will perform – especially as they are looking for it to function better, and more efficiently, than a conventional yarder.

And for operators who are used to the older yarders, there are changes.

“The process that you are going to use to grab the logs out of the forest is going to be very, very different with the hybrid yarder,” explains Dorian. “We’ve always used foot and hand controls, essentially using friction and braking, to control where the grapple drops, to grab logs.”

This combination of hand controls and foot controls is something that experienced operators know and do very well – but it took many, many operating hours to get to that level of proficiency. Those experienced operators can be hard to find these days.

“That is now going to be controlled by a computer program that directs what your hands are going to do on the controls. It

will make the grapple yarder way easier to operate, and it will make it easier to train younger people on the machine.”

It’s important, he says, to be able to train the next generation of machine operators more easily on an advanced piece of equipment. Dorian believes that operating a cutting-edge piece of equipment will appeal to younger people and, in turn, help continue to maintain his crews.

The hybrid machine packs more punch.

“It has more torque and pulling power, and speed and precision, than any machine we’ve ever had.”

Any productivity gains would be a bonus, though, he says.

“I’m not counting on that from the machine. The functions of a yarder are pretty straightforward. You can only realistically yard so much wood in a setting. Grapple yarders operate in steep ground, with big wood, and they work hard to get the wood out of the pile and land it, because you are usually on the side of a mountain. You can only move timber so fast, given that environment.”

But there are still significant potential savings, he says.

Wahkash Contracting does most of its logging for Mosaic Forest Management.

“Conventional grapple yarders burn 400 litres of fuel a day, and we are looking to reduce that by 50% with the new hybrid machine.”

Based on the cost of fuel, and the number of operating days, that alone could represent savings of $80,000 a year.

Longer term, they could also see savings on maintenance. The thinking is that the electric motors on the hybrid yarder would have a 25,000 operating hours’ life, vs. the 5000-hour life of clutches and brakes in the older machines.

“The electric motors are more expensive, but we still expect this could be a win for us,” says Dorian.

First published in Canada’s Logging & Sawmilling Journal. It has since been renamed Forestnet Magazine. NZL

FICA.ORG.NZ

your voice The voice of forestry contractors since 2002

Connecting in Canterbury

BY ROWAN STRUTHERS, FICA CEO

Above: Gavin’s Logging and Simon Brand’s red Chev.

This image: Kerry and Rowan When I got a call from CWCWC (Canterbury West Coast Wood Council) Chair Glen Moir, inviting me to present at the CWCWC members’ event, I didn’t need much convincing.

I had looked at the National Exotic Forest Description (NEFD) for the region, so I was aware that wood supply had peaked and is now contracting quite rapidly. For contractors, that means less certainty of work, more competition for what is available, and real challenges maintaining crews and utilisation.

At the same time, that reduction in supply flows through to processors, creating underutilised capacity and higher costs. Add to this cost inflation and the fuel crisis, and you potentially have a very challenging operating environment.

Simon Brand (Brand Logging) picked me up and we headed north to Hanmer to see Kerry Gavin (Gavin’s Logging) who runs a couple of mechanised ground-based operations in the Hanmer region. In recent months, they’d been tidying up windblow in Hanmer Forest for Matariki, who Kerry says is a very good, professional company to work with, and that the relationship goes back many years. We discussed

the declining cut, which is a concern. They are currently completing a long-term contract, and next year they will have to retender for their work with Matariki.

We then briefly visited one of Brand Logging’s small windblow salvage operations in Hanmer’s Heritage Forest.

Established in 1901, it’s a significant natural area in New Zealand, planted with a mix of native and exotic trees to test their performance here. Brand Logging is doing a great job of tidying it up following weather damage, working closely with Matariki and other stakeholders.

Brand Logging has been a long-term member of FICA, and Tony served on the Board for a number of years.

Want to listen to this Logger Mag update from FICA insteaD? See our website to learn how: www.fica.org.nz/logger-mag

FICA.ORG.NZ Brand Logging is also a CWCWC member and a strong supporter of the University of Canterbury School of Forestry, having assisted with a number of research projects.

We caught up with Steve Norris from Allan Laurie Forestry, a very well-established and respected forest management company. They operate more in the woodlot and private forestry space and Steve was pretty upbeat about the industry. The challenge when operating in woodlots is putting sufficient forward work in front of contractors so they have the confidence to invest in machinery and people.

The fuel crisis has been challenging, but they have worked collaboratively with forest owners, contractors and wood buyers to continue operating.

We headed out to meet harvesting contractor Matt Monro, who comes from a civil engineering background, and found his way into forestry initially through building roads and skids, then harvesting, and later adding a couple of log trucks. He still uses civil work to support his forestry business and, as he says, diversification is key.

My final visit was to the husband-and-wife team of Baden and Pam Ryan, of Ryan Earthworks. With just three machines and two operators, Baden has significant experience in forest operations, including earthworks and harvesting. The configuration of the crew seemed perfect for the type of work they were doing, which required a lighter footprint, lower capital and operating costs, and lower production.

Onward to the CWCWC members’ function in Christchurch, where they have a very broad representation across the supply chain. I spoke about the current state of play from a contractor’s perspective and highlighted the considerable capital investment made by typically small, family-owned businesses since 2013 to improve health and safety

Above: Pam, Baden and Steve performance and productivity, the challenge of continuing to achieve productivity gains to offset costs, and the creep in regulation, particularly following Cyclone Gabrielle.

I also acknowledged the strong level of representation and collaboration between different stakeholders in the Canterbury supply chain.

I had the opportunity to catch up with John Hawkins, of Stoneyhurst Timbers, and reminisce about my days in wood processing. To future-proof their log supply, Stoneyhurst is now one of the largest private forest owners in Canterbury and has very strong relationships with forest managers.

The following day I was picked up by Corban Liley, Harvest and Training Manager at Forest Management Group (FMG), and we headed out to catch up with Alan Nicholls, of Davaar Logging.

Davaar is a long-time FICA member and runs a single, fully mechanised ground-based crew. They operate in private forests, so the numbers have to add up for the forest owner to ensure there is continuity of work for them. They have just upgraded their feller buncher, which was a difficult decision in the current environment, when the cost of new gear seems to have ramped up.

THE LEADING VOICE FOR NEW ZEALAND FORESTRY FICA is the voice of New Zealand’s forestry contractors. They represent the loggers, crews and businesses who keep the

THE THE LEADING LEADING industry running, and standing up for them where it counts.

Waratah is proud to be one VOICE VOICE FOR FOR of the main sponsors backing that work.

NEW NEW ZEALAND ZEALAND FORESTRY FORESTRY FICA isFICA the voice is theof voice NewofZealand’s New Zealand’s forestryforestry contractors. contractors.

They represent They represent the loggers, the loggers, crews and crews businesses and businesses who keep whothe keep the industry industry running, running, and standing and standing up for them up for them where where it counts. it counts.

Waratah Waratah is proud is to proud be one to be one

July 2026 | NZ LOGGER 39

FICA.ORG.NZ

Improving Production Workshop – Strong Engagement and Next Steps

Above: Corban, Alan, Simon and their new 909.

FICA recently participated in the Forest Engineering Workshop: Managing Production for Cost-Effective Logging, bringing together contractors, researchers, and industry partners to focus on improving productivity and managing costs.

With the latest fuel crisis, everyone has had to work together to keep things going. Davaar works very closely with FMG to ensure continuity of work. Some of the terrain they work on is pretty challenging, and they are considering purchasing a winch, another difficult decision in the current environment. Alan has his succession plan sorted, with his son Simon actively involved in the business.

FICA presented alongside several members and sponsors, including:

We then headed back to Christchurch, so I could catch up with Rien Visser at the School of Forestry. Rien introduced me to a number of his staff, including Jeanette Allen, Senior School Coordinator.

A key strength of the day was the strong involvement from contractors and industry practitioners.

Presentations focused on:

It was a great couple of days. Thanks to everyone involved from inviting me, to driving me around and allowing me to visit. The only negative was the Chiefs v Crusaders game playing as I flew home. I touched down to discover we had lost, however Simon was gracious in victory, which is unusual for a Cantabrian.

FICA AGM – Online – put in your diaries now This year’s AGM will be held online on 12 August 4:00 PM. Members will receive invite and instructions by email – watch this space.

Nelson

GET TOGETHER 2 6 -2 7 AU G U S T 2 0 2 6 N E L S ON TICKETS ON SALE NOW $15 0 + GST / PER PERSON www.womeninforestry.co.nz/events

40 NZ LOGGER | July 2026

NEW DAT E!

• Blair Cooper (OFM) • Scotty Saunders (Trimax Logging Co) • Jules Larsen (Waratah) • Logan Hammersley (Blackburne Group)

• Practical ways to improve production efficiency • Managing cost pressures in a tightening market • Lessons learned from operational experience • Approaches to optimising harvesting systems This emphasis on real-world application was well received and reinforced the value of contractor-led discussion.

Off the back of this success, FICA is now working with the University of Canterbury, with support from Waratah, to explore delivering similar workshops in the South Island. Watch this space.

FICA.ORG.NZ

your voice The voice of forestry contractors since 2002

A CENTURY of EXPERTISE CAPTURED IN ONE iconic product

ENTER THE BALLOT TO REGISTER YOUR INTEREST TO BUY A MS 500i PETROL CHAINSAW CENTENNIAL EDITION HERE Conditions of entry on the STIHL SHOP website

FICA Partners TIER 1 - PRUNED

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.

TIER 2 - A GRADE

TIER 3 - K GRADE

TIER 4 BIOMASS

World-class experience.

Local know-how.

TO JOIN, CALL 0800 342 ORAT SIGNUP ONLINE AT FICA.ORG.NZ SEE269 MORE WWW.FICA.ORG.NZ

Safety/performance/quality

Thinning for value results

This issue we bring you a summary of the Thinning for Value first half results and a bit of commentary from what we have seen out and about.

So, congratulations to the following: CREW

PARTICIPANT

ESTATE

PLACING

Inta-Wood Forestry Limited

Brinn Fogden

Port Blakely

1st equal

Heslip Forest Contracting Ltd Neil Gardyne

Matariki Forests Group

1st equal

Heslip Forest Contracting Ltd Trent Soper

Matariki Forests Group

1st equal

Why have industry best practice guidelines and standards?

Sometimes the best answer to a question like this comes from outside of our industry.

It may, or may not, be what we want to hear, but comes from a view external to our day-to-day activity.

A great sharpening setup.

42 NZ LOGGER | July 2026

We had a recent example of a forestry professional who spent 12 months out of the industry working in felling and trimming trees and scrub clearance around powerlines and pylons.

He has returned to thinning for value and commented that, from his experience, forestry was far more professional and organised

Another great sharpening setup.

A not so positive resting saw position.

Safety/performance/quality than where he had been working.

Yes, they talked a good game, and people held certification, but his view was their knowledge and organisation behind the job fell far short of what our industry has.

On his return, he says forestry does things very well. He is comfortable with being back and being assessed now he is back in the field. Being away for 12 months, he respects and appreciates the forest industry standards and welcomed being assessed against them.

We have included several photographs of interest showing: • Not so positive carrying positions for saws; • Good setup for sharpening (sitting position on the stem, slightly up hill so looking down the bar. Comfortable and stable so focus is on sharpening. Two hands used for sharpening. Vice holds the saw steady and stable so sharpening movements are precise); • And, yes, we are all getting a bit older, so one crew is taking supplements to help with joint strength and movement.

Stay happy and safe.

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.

A not so positive saw position when being carried.

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: Matariki Forestry Group, Wenita Forest Products, Ernslaw One, OneFortyOne New Zealand, Crown Forestry, Forest View Contracting, Makerikeri Silviculture (2020), Mitchell 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

Traction caused potential kickback.

At least one crew is taking supplements to help with joint strength and movement.

July 2026 | NZ LOGGER 43

BLUEWOOD’S NEW KOMATSU HEAD

HUNDREDTH SANY IN NEW ZEALAND FORESTS The team at Fast Frontier has taken delivery of a brand-new SANY SY305H fitted with an Ensign 1730 grapple, making this the 16th SANY machine for the Fast Group. This also marks a significant milestone, being the 100th SANY to enter New Zealand forests.

Sold and serviced by Shaw's.

Bluewood Logging has taken delivery of a new Komatsu S172 harvester head that has replaced an existing head that was fitted to a Komatsu 951 wheeled harvester.

Adam couldn't believe the difference the new head made and was away dropping trees in no time.

Sold and supported by Komatsu Forest.

MILESTONE DELIVERY FOR WHISKER LOGGING

NIGEL BRYANT’S NEW ACQUISITION

The year began with a milestone delivery: the very first Sumitomo 3740, purpose-built with a PFS RE cabin and Duxson GX182HD grapple. Delivering a machine of this calibre is no small achievement. Huge congratulations to all who played a part in bringing this together. This new model combines class-leading power and outstanding fuel economy.

This Cat 538 forest machine is a new acquisition for Nigel Bryant Logging. It’s the third 538 in the operation and is hard at work in the Marlborough region. With purpose-built Next Gen FM features to enhance machine productivity and fuel performance, operator Stalky loves the visibility and smooth operation of the new Cat. Nelson-based Terra Cat territory account manager Jayden Peek sold the machine.

FIRST EVER WOODSMAN PRO 566 DELIVERED The first-ever Woodsman Pro 566 was recently delivered to H&R Harvesting. The 566 is fitted to an existing Caterpillar 336 GC, which previously ran a WP750. A smaller head in the Woodsman Pro range, the 566 sits alongside the 560, but has a topping saw and is purpose-built for harvesting smaller-diameter wood. It is operating on a Douglas Fir block near Taupō, where the H&R team is working for Manulife. Sold and installed by Woodsman Pro.

ANOTHER SHARP SETUP DELIVERED

Graham Tuckey Contracting (AKA Tuckey Logging) took delivery of a new Sumitomo 3740TLW, fitted with a side entry PFS cab and equipped with a Duxson GX182HD grapple, ready to get to work.

Based in the Wairarapa, Tuckey Logging is a long-standing, well-known woodlot crew. This addition completes the skid setup alongside its bigger brother, the 4640TLW. Thanks to Donaldson Mechanical and PFS Engineering for their support.

July 2026 | NZ LOGGER 45

TOKOROA THE HOME OF A NEW CAT Brian Rutgers at Loggabull has added a new Next Gen Cat 538 forest machine to the fleet. The machine features a rear-entry cab for additional operator visibility and safety, and an Ensign grapple.

The 538 has been put to work on fleeting and loading duties in the Tokoroa area. Mark Costello from Terra Cat sold the machine.

A SERIOUS FORESTRY WEAPON NAB Contracting has taken delivery of a serious forestry weapon – the Sumitomo 3740TLW, fitted with a PFS rear entry cab and paired with the Duxson GX182HD grapple. Built tough, built smart and ready to handle whatever the bush throws at it. Thanks to Nick and Katie Bunn for the continued support and to Donaldson Mechanical and PFS Engineering for helping bring this build together.

ANOTHER VOLVO AT ATS Toby and Amy Satherley’s ATS Logging recently added a new Volvo EC380DL VFC factory forestry carrier to its fleet working in the Hawke’s Bay. Fully guarded, compliant and fitted with a factoryinstalled forestry cab made it an easy decision to replace their existing EC380DL VFC. The ATS mechanical team fitted additional auxiliary cooling, a fully enclosed vented top bonnet and a Southstar harvesting head. Supplied and delivered by Ewen Satherley of TDX.

NEW CAT FLEETING AND LOADING Connor and Harriet McCormick have added a new Cat 538 forest machine to their McCormick Logging operation in Kaingaroa.

The Next Gen Cat is performing fleeting and loading duties, and features a rear-entry cab and an Ensign 1730 grapple. The 538 was sold by Rotorua-based territory account manager Mark Costello.

A WHOLE PACKAGE HANDED OVER SANY-FALCON PACKAGE JOINS THE TEAM Another SANY has hit the scrub with this brand-new SY305H DC Falcon Winch package for Tohaia Forestry. This machine joins the team at Tohaia Forestry and will be hooked up to a John Deere 959.

Sold and serviced by Shaw's.

46 NZ LOGGER | July 2026

An awesome day at Speirs Logging near Mōrere, south of Gisborne, celebrating the handover of their new Sany SY305 Gen 4 Falcon Winch Assist. Thanks to Speirs Logging, Shaw’s for the base machine, DC Equipment for the Falcon Winch Assist build and TDF Solutions for bringing the whole package together.

Photo from left: Paul (TDF), Tommy (DCE), Brother Ben, Will, Nui, Blake, John Boi, Benny and Manu.

Custom-Cut Woven Brake Linings.

NZ LOGGER classified

INFORMA

T

WE CUSTOM BUILD -STOCK, OVERHAUL & REPAIR WE MANUFACTURE THE BEST HEAVY DUTY CORES IN NZ

LG35975

INTERCOOLERS

New joining link system The Adjustable Haggis Link makes tensioning the track fast and ergonomic.

Chain Protection Services Ph: 03 338 1552 E: info@chainpro.co.nz www.chains.co.nz

Madill Komatsu CAT Thunderbird John Deere Hyundai Tigercat Sumitomo Swing Units for Madill’s & Kenworth Logging Trucks Large Stocks of Heavy Alloy Cores & Completes Full Custom Build Service Fast & Efficient

OILCOOLERS

OILCOOLERS

IO N

RE

O

New optimized track profile As durable as our Heavy Duty Terra95, but 30% lighter Enhanced traction and improved snow and mud clearing.

CHARGE AIR COOLERS

BOP Radiators Te Puke 07 5739109 Heat Exchanger Services Hornby Chch 03 3729240

E

FO R M

TAKING YOUR PRODUCTIVITY TO A WHOLE NEW LEVEL

AN SC M

LG32968

TERRAX

RADIATORS

sales@bopradiatorspecialists.co.nz

RADIATORS

Grabasub

www.clarktracks.com

SUBSCRIBE TO ALL 3 MAGAZINES

11 ISSUES

11 ISSUES

$

$

119.90 $110

104.50 $95

ONLY

$199

40.00 $36

$

ONLY

INCL. GST

for Saving $65 – 25% GET YOUR COPIES EVERY MONTH! SUBSCRIBE NOW!

4 ISSUES ONLY

INCL. GST

Saving $10.00

Saving $8.00

(INCLUDES EQUIPMENT GUIDE)

(INCLUDES EQUIPMENT GUIDE)

9.5%

INCL. GST

Saving $4.00

10%

6%

SUBSCRIBE TO ALL 3 MAGAZINES FOR $199 SAVING $65 – 25% GET YOUR COPIES EVERY MONTH! SUBSCRIBE NOW!

5 SUBSCRIBE EASY WAYS TO

Post PO Box 112062 Penrose, Auckland 1642

Ph 09 571 3544

Email admin@trucker.co.nz

www.alliedpublications.co.nz

Tick boxes

NZ TRUCK & DRIVER 1 year (11 issues) for $110 incl. GST

NZ TRUCKBODY & TRAILER 1 year (4 issues) for $36incl. GST

NZ LOGGER 1 year (11 issues) for $95 incl. GST

3 TITLES $199 incl. GST

Please tick appropriate magazine title box MY DETAILS NAME:

FOR ME

ADDRESS:

A GIFT

Renewal of current subscription:

No.

RECIPIENT DETAILS FOR GIFT SUBSCRIPTION NAME:

PHONE (day):

ADDRESS:

EMAIL: PAYMENT

VISA

PHONE (day):

MASTERCARD

EMAIL:

AP21328

CARD HOLDER NAME: SECURITY CODE:

48 NZ LOGGER | July October 20262023

EXPIRY DATE: SIGNATURE:

SEND A GIFTCARD TO (tick one):

TO ME

TO RECIPIENT

Terms and conditions: Subscription rates and a free copy of Equipment Guide are for NZ orders only and only for NZ Truck and Driver and NZ Logger subscriptions. Rates include GST and postage. For overseas prices please enquire.

NZ LOGGER classified 2025 WINNER INTERNATIONAL TRADE AWARD

49 NZ LOGGER | October 2023

October July 2026 2023 | NZ LOGGER 49