Forestry scoops primary industry awards

TAKING THREE OF THE FOUR CATEGORY prizes in the Ministry for Primary Industries’ Good Employer Awards this week is a sign the forestry sector has come of age as a leading primary sector industry, says Forest Owners Association (FOA) Vice President, Grant Dodson.

“Many people still think the land-based industries are only about food production. But we have companies and individuals in our forest industry who are equally proud of the work they do. It’s great to see three of them have been recognised through these awards. They are representative of many other individuals and companies who are working to high professional standards in our industry,” he says.

“On top of forestry’s key role in absorbing greenhouse gases, the government also expects an increase in our forest products overseas earnings of $2.6 billion within ten years.

“That’s a growth volume in our primary sector that only horticulture is going to equal. We need good companies and people to achieve this, and doing so well in these awards, against the best in the whole primary sector, shows we can do it,” adds Mr Dodson.

The three award winners were: South Island based forest company Port Blakely for Health & Safety, Rewi Haulage, a Māoriowned and operated log trucking company based in Rangitukia north of Gisborne for the Māori Agribusiness Award, and the Supreme Winner was Rayonier Matariki Forests.

The Supreme Award recognises employers who provide great employment conditions, demonstrate a commitment to diversity, have a highly effective employee development programme and excellent health and safety record.

Managing Director of Rayonier Matariki Forests, Brendan Slui says he’s thrilled to receive such a prestigious accolade for the company’s good employer practices.

“We have worked hard to be a successful company and provide a workplace where our people are valued, respected, and contributing at all levels. The calibre and passion of our people is what makes us a great company and one which people want to be a part of.”