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).
Forestry Training Consultation
Major changes are underway in New Zealand’s vocational education system. Competenz will move to a new PTE for engineering and manufacturing in 2026, but forestry training will not be included.
Forestry sits under the Food and Fibre Industry Skills Board, meaning a new training arrangement is needed.
Forestry must provide the Government with its preferred model by the end of March 2026. Options include partnering with a polytechnic, PTE, or wānanga. Given that over 85% of forestry training occurs on the job, retaining practical, fit for purpose delivery remains the priority.
To navigate our way through this, FICA and FOA (Forest Owners Association) formed a joint Forestry Training Committee. The committee is chaired by Kevin Ihaka (FICA) and has four members from FICA and four from FOA.
The committee is recognised as the industry advisory group (IAG) to the government and its agencies, making it the voice of industry. The committee has been very active in recent months, looking at options for Forestry vocational training.
The Forestry Training Committee is recommending alignment with Primary ITO as it transitions to a new Primary Industry PTE. This would create a dedicated forestry business unit with stronger industry oversight, improved accountability, and a seat on the PTE’s board.
Consultation is happening nationwide to the end of March. See more and register:
Forest Growers Levey – Annual Work Programme
The 2026 Work programme funded by the Forest growers levy Trust has been released.
The Trust received nearly $11 million in funding requests, exceeding the $8.68 million levy budget available for the 2026 work programme. See more:
FICA Innovation Committee – Calling for Nominations
To strengthen FICA’s role in industry innovation, a new FICA innovation sub committee is being formed. The goal is to submit up to five funding proposals annually to the FGLT/FGR process. Nominations are now open to members, associates, and sponsors. Please contact Rowan Struthers on 0274 712 789 or email rowan@fica.org.nz to talk about this opportunity.
FICA Members can reduce costs with n3
FICA is committed to supporting our members’ success, including helping businesses keep your operating costs down. That’s why FICA has partnered with n3 to give Members access to great discounts at 45+ leading New Zealand Suppliers.
As part of FICA Membership, the n3 Membership fee is covered in full. That means it’s completely free for FICA member businesses and your employees to join and start saving. See more and activate FICA n3 membership at: n3.co.nz/fica
Why forestry contractors should join FICA
The forestry sector is one of New Zealand’s most vital primary industries, yet it is also one of the most challenging. Contractors face rising operational costs, increasing compliance demands, complex health and safety obligations, rapid innovation cycles, and fluctuating market conditions. In such an environment, being part of a strong, united industry body isn’t a luxury — it’s a strategic advantage.
FICA represents the collective voice of more than 200 New Zealand forestry contracting and supplier companies, working to ensure a resilient, professional, and sustainable contractor workforce.
1. STRONG INDUSTRY REPRESENTATION AND ADVOCACY
FICA ensures contractors are at the table with key industry groups and government agencies, advocating for practical and sustainable outcomes.
2. ACCESS TO EXCLUSIVE MEMBER BENEFITS THAT SAVE MONEY
Members receive free access to the n3 business savings programme, discounted industry publications, and complimentary magazine subscriptions—often saving more than the cost of membership.
3. HEALTH, SAFETY, AND WELLBEING SUPPORT
FICA provides essential tools, resources, and leadership to support a safe and high-performing workforce.
4. NETWORKING, TRAINING, AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Members gain access to workshops, events, and training opportunities that strengthen their business operations.
5. A UNIFIED, PROFESSIONAL VOICE FOR A GROWING INDUSTRY
FICA helps create a strong, resilient, and future-focused contractor workforce across New Zealand’s forestry sector.
Joining FICA is an investment in business sustainability, industry influence, workforce support, and long-term success.
FICA cannot do the work it does without your financial support. Annual membership starts 1 April 2026. See more: www.fica.org.nz/membership
If you’d like more information on FICA membership call Rowan Struthers on 0274 712 789 or email rowan@fica.org.nz
