The Northland Wood Council proudly hosted the Northland Forestry Awards at MacKay Stadium on Friday 20 September, honouring the exceptional contributions of individuals and organizations in the forestry sector. The event drew an impressive crowd of 450 guests, with renowned MC Te Radar skillfully guiding the audience through an inspiring night filled with celebration and recognition.
At the heart of the evening was the announcement of the Supreme Forest Industry Award for 2024, which went to Graham Waru of Rosvall Sawmill Limited. With over two decades of experience in the forestry industry, Graham has solidified himself as a cornerstone of his organization, renowned for his commitment to product quality, consistency, and precision. His relentless pursuit of excellence, coupled with his dedication to training and mentorship, has made him an invaluable asset to his team. Graham’s exceptional leadership and foresight not only elevate his craft; they significantly enhance the overall growth of his organization. His perfectionism and dedication to his work are truly commendable, establishing him as a worthy recipient of such a prestigious award.
Matt Pederson chair of the Northland Wood Council highlighted, “There is a huge reservoir of knowledge and skills in this region and the industry has to celebrate its achievements and the people that are out there working everyday.”
He remarked how he was encouraged by the fantastic response from the sponsors, the quantity of nominations & those guests at the awards in supporting the event especially when the environment out there was so challenging.
The night also celebrated the remarkable achievements of the Ngati Hine Forestry Trust, which was honoured with the Outstanding Environmental Management award. Their transformative Indigenous Forestry Strategy exemplifies a deep commitment to environmental stewardship, integrating traditional Māori knowledge with contemporary sustainable practices. The Trust’s initiatives in native forest restoration and biodiversity enhancement resonate strongly with the community, showcasing a robust connection between their people and the land.
Among other notable awards, Jess Winikerei from Mold Logging Limited was recognized as the Emerging Talent of the Year. Her commitment during her apprenticeship, high production output, and strong work ethic highlights the bright prospects of future leaders in the forestry sector.
Additionally, IK & SM Newey Transport celebrated significant successes, with multiple awards recognizing team members for excellence in distribution, log truck driver and innovation. Ian Newey’s groundbreaking development of an electric winch system is a prime example of how technology can enhance safety and operational efficiency in the industry.
The Northland Forestry Awards proudly showcases the dedication, innovation, and relentless pursuit of excellence that defines this vibrant industry. The Northland Wood Council extend their congratulations to all winners and nominees, whose hard work continues to shape the future of forestry in Northland.
Photography by Jess Burges Photography
