The Wood Processors and Manufacturers Association of New
Zealand (WPMA) welcomes the National Party’s forestry and
wood processing policy[1],
particularly its commitment to doubling value-added timber
exports, increasing the use of wood in construction, and
strengthening workforce development.
The policy
reflects many of the priorities our sector has consistently
advocated for, including creating greater value from the
trees we grow and supporting increased domestic wood
processing and manufacturing.
We are encouraged by
commitments to develop a NZ Pine brand and expand
international market opportunities for New Zealand’s wood
products. These initiatives align strongly with our
objective of growing exports of higher value manufactured
timber products and increasing returns to the wood
processing sector.
WPMA strongly supports policies
that ensure timber and wood-based solutions are considered
early in government procurement and project design.
Providing greater consideration for New Zealand made wood
products creates a more level playing field and recognises
the important role timber can play alongside other
construction materials in delivering sustainable building
outcomes.
Workforce capability remains critical to the
future success of our industry and we welcome commitments to
strengthen vocational training pathways, industry led
qualifications, and skills development across wood
processing.
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We are also pleased to see recognition of
the need to investigate opportunities to increase the supply
of pruned logs. Higher quality log supply is an important
foundation for increasing domestic processing, producing
higher value products, and maximising the value recovered
from every tree harvested.
As we head towards the
election, WPMA’s focus will be on ensuring these commitments
translate into practical outcomes, regardless of which
parties form the next Government. Our priority is to see
policies that drive greater demand for New Zealand made wood
products, support investment in domestic manufacturing, and
create more jobs in regional communities. We look forward to
working constructively with all political parties to realise
that potential.
WPMA – who we are:
WPMA
is an industry membership association representing companies
involved in the wider wood processing and manufacturing
industries, including sawn timber, pulp and paperboard,
manufactured and engineered wood products, along with
bio-forest products. Our vision champions wood processing
and manufacturing as the core to New Zealand’s economic
growth, regional development, and sustainable
environment.
[1]
https://www.national.org.nz/policies/forestry