More than 50 forestry industry participants gathered in Nelson recently for the latest Productivity Workshop delivered through the collaboration between FICA and the University of Canterbury. With an even mix of approximately 50% contractors and 50% forest managers, the workshop provided a valuable opportunity to explore how the forestry sector can improve productivity, profitability and long-term sustainability.
The strong turnout reflected the importance of productivity as a key issue for the industry. Discussions throughout the day focused on the growing pressure created by rising operating costs, increasing compliance requirements and the need to achieve stronger returns from the significant investment contractors have made in modern harvesting equipment and systems.
One of the most encouraging aspects of the workshop was the level of participation from contractors outside the Nelson region. Representatives travelled from across the country, including Speirs Logging (Gisborne), Fast Harvesting (Central North Island), Jensen Logging (Central North Island), Loggabull (Central North Island) and Brand Logging (Canterbury). Their attendance highlighted the value the industry places on sharing ideas, benchmarking performance and learning from each other's experiences.
The workshop also showcased the diversity of talent within the contracting sector. Alongside many of the industry's most experienced business owners and operational leaders were younger forestry professionals such as Ivan Quin and Sam Holmes, both under 35 years of age and currently foremen for separate Loggabull harvesting crews. Their involvement demonstrated the strength of emerging leadership within the industry and the importance of investing in the next generation of forestry decision-makers.
A key theme throughout the day was that productivity improvements must extend beyond the harvesting crew itself. Presentations and discussions highlighted the role that harvest planning, infrastructure design, logistics, production monitoring, technology and communication play in improving overall supply chain performance. The message was clear: productivity gains are best achieved when contractors, forest managers and forest owners work together to remove inefficiencies and focus on outcomes.
The workshop was also endorsed by respected industry leader Mike Fraser, who reinforced the value of bringing contractors and forest managers together to openly discuss productivity challenges and opportunities. His support reflected the positive industry sentiment towards the workshop and the importance of creating forums where practical solutions can be shared, relationships strengthened, and future improvements identified for the benefit of the wider forestry sector.
A standout presentation was delivered by Jules Larsen from Waratah, who challenged participants to think about the future of production monitoring and the increasing role of machine-generated data in operational decision-making. As harvesting technology continues to evolve, access to accurate production information is expected to become an increasingly important tool for improving performance and identifying opportunities across forestry operations. Jules also generously sponsored the post-workshop refreshments, providing attendees with an excellent opportunity to continue discussions and build industry connections.
The success of the workshop reflects the strength of the ongoing partnership between FICA and the University of Canterbury. Special thanks go to Rien Visser and Patrick Humphrey for their continued leadership and commitment to delivering practical, industry-focused events that help lift capability and encourage innovation throughout the sector.
FICA would also like to acknowledge the support of the Forest Growers Levy Trust (FGLT), whose contribution helped make the workshop possible.
The momentum generated by the Nelson event is already carrying forward. The next Productivity Workshop is scheduled for 16 October in Balclutha and with more than 20 registrations already received, interest is proving strong. Anyone interested in improving operational performance, learning from industry leaders and contributing to productive industry discussions is encouraged to register early.
The high level of engagement, strong attendance and overwhelmingly positive feedback demonstrate that New Zealand's forestry sector remains committed to working together to improve productivity and build a more resilient future for contractors, forest managers and forest owners alike.
