June 2026
ISSN 1176-0397
| 9.50
Testing the humble skidder
Clearing by remote control
Iron Test
Story & photos: Tim Benseman
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 | June 2026
Above: Amazing control – the fixed grapple, with tilting hitch option, offers excellent control for stacking storm debris. Main: The CDL grapple with fixed hanger option is great for controlling trees.
BANNER BANNER BANNER 1 21 W
EST EST 1909 1909
THE THE SUPPLIER SUPPLIER TO NEW TO NEW ZEALAND ZEALAND HEAVY HEAVY INDUSTRY INDUSTRY
June 2026 | NZ LOGGER 15
TOHAIA FORESTRY’S NEW CAT
KOMATSU/WARATAH COMBO IN SOUTHLAND
This Cat 538LL forest machine is a new acquisition for Tohaia Forestry Harvesting. The 538 showcases the purpose-built Next Gen FM elements to enhance operator comfort, machine productivity and fuel performance. Working for BJ Tohaia, it also features a rear entry cab and Duxson BX1100 grapple. The 538 was sold by Rotorua-based Territory Account Manager Mark Costello.
Southland logging contractor Ngawaka and his wife Betty, of Ngahere Harvesting, recently took delivery of a new Komatsu PC300HW-8 fitted with a Waratah 624. It’s working in a hardwood application with its power, speed, track power and smooth application meaning it does the work with ease. Ngawaka is extremely happy with his choice. Sold and supported by Komatsu Forest.
FIRST NEXT GEN ARRIVAL AT JENSEN LOGGING
OCEAN VIEW LOGGING’S NEW TIGERCAT
This Cat 548LL Forest Machine is the first Next Generation FM arrival for Jensen Logging. Showcasing a low cab log loader spec, and an Ensign heel and grapple combination, the 548 is hard at work shovel logging in Kaingaroa. The operator is very impressed with the features of the purpose-built Cat, especially its reach and operator comfort. Mark Costello from Terra Cat sold the machine.
Stephen and Gloria Rist, from Ocean View Logging, Whakatāne, recently took delivery of a new Tigercat LH857 Feller Buncher. It’s early days, but operator Ken was impressed with its power and performance, offered with the extra tilt, due to the sloped tail, and also the good lift power. Sold by Brent Van Der Burg and supported by the team at CablePrice.
NEW HITACHI IN MOONLIGHT FOREST Rob and Fae Clarke of Pukeamaru Contractors have added a new Hitachi LANDCROS ZX225USLC-7 to their forestry roading operation in Moonlight Forest, Whatatutu, Gisborne. The reduced tail swing radius ZX225USLC-7 is ideal for tight environments. It is fitted with a Wedgelock Equipment tilt coupler, Powerclamp and a full bucket set, and finished with a Towler Engineering custom forestry guarding package. Sold by Tyler Allen, Forestry and Construction Sales Specialist, Hawke’s Bay/Gisborne.
NEW CAT WORKING IN TOKOROA AREA This new Next Gen Cat 538LL is pictured with Brook van Heuven and his Thunder Logging crew on delivery day. Featuring a spacious rear entry cab for better visibility and safety, the 538 is fitted with a 1730 grapple and is performing fleeting and loading duties in the Tokoroa region. The machine was sold by Terra Cat Territory Account Manager, Mark Costello. June 2026 | NZ LOGGER 45