Want to listen to our FICA Logger Mag updates instead of reading them? Here's how:
1. Update your settings (phones / tablets) or install this free audio reader extension (desktop / laptop):
a. iPhone: To use the built-in text-to-speech feature on your iPhone, go to:
Settings > Accessibility > Spoken Content and enable "Speak Selection" or "Speak Screen" to have the iPhone read selected text or the entire screen aloud, respectively.
b. Samsung: To activate and customize the text-to-speech "Read Aloud" feature on your Samsung Galaxy phone or tablet, navigate to Settings > Accessibility > Text-to-speech output, where you can choose your preferred engine, language, speech rate, and pitch.
c. Computer: Install Read Aloud: A Text to Speech Voice Reader. Then the orange megaphone icon should appear in the top right of your web browser - you can use the controls to play / stop / skip as needed.
2. If on your iPhone, select / highlight the text below and click 'speak' to listen. If you're on your computer, press the orange megaphone icon (normally in the top right of your web browser).
Here's to a strong 2026
2025 tested us and margin squeeze dominated discussions. Rising costs and compliance collided with returns that remained stubbornly low. This challenge was front and centre in our costing workshops, where we begun building shared understanding between contractors and forest managers. Transparency is the first step toward restoring balance.
Markets added to the pressure. Export prices were low but stable throughout the year, offering little relief. At the same time, crews had to contend with major windblow events in Tasman, Southland and Canterbury, which created salvage pressures and stretched capacity. On the domestic side, mill closures in Tokoroa and Eves Valley reduced processing outlets, compounding the challenge of keeping supply chains viable.
Yet despite these headwinds, harvesting production held up strongly—a testament to the professionalism and determination of the industry.
2025 also showed the power of contractors, crews and communities working together. We made strong progress:
the launch of the new Forestry ACOP, development of
the Pan Sector Health & Safety Charter, recognition of the Silviculture Operator role to stabilise workforce visas and securing contractor representation in forestry research.
These wins matter—but they only have impact if contractors remain viable.
Looking ahead, we are beginning to see green shoots in the domestic economy. Housing consents are lifting, business confidence has rebounded, and there are signs of modest recovery in construction activity. For FICA, 2026 sees a reviewed strategy and business plan that builds on 2025’s lessons and member feedback.
I'd like to thank you all for your hard work, your trust, and your voice throughout 2025 and here’s to a strong and prosperous 2026.
Rowan
FICA hosted a Contractor Christmas event in November 2026, in partnership with Shaw’s. Thank you to everyone who came along and enjoyed the couple of days in Queenstown!
Andy Ellis and Matt Watson provided some light hearted entertainment and banter at the walk and fork dinner at The Wharf.
Then we headed out to the Gibbston Valley for an awesome day at Oxbow, enjoying the jet boating, ATV rides, clay shooting and driving range.
A MASSIVE thank you to Jonny Shick and all the team at Shaw’s for your sponsorship and for throwing in free Helicopter Rides for FICA Members.
It was excelling getting away from the tools / office to enjoy a couple of relaxing days reconnecting and recharging. Watch this space for upcoming events in 2026 – www.fica.org.nz/events
