PEFC New Zealand: ready for the next chapter

Responsible Wood's Matt de Jongh with PEFC's Richard Laity at the Timber Design Awards in New Zealand

With increasing expectations around sustainability and responsible sourcing directed at New Zealand’s forest and construction sectors, the relaunch of certification scheme PEFC New Zealand is well timed.

Formerly the New Zealand Forest Certification Association, the organisation unveiled its new identity as PEFC New Zealand, part of the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC), at the recent Timber Design Awards in Auckland. The rebrand accompanies a renewed board and a clear focus on supporting responsible forest management to give customers confidence in the origin of certified forest products.

Chaired by Mark Ross, the new board brings together experience from across New Zealand's forestry and timber supply chain to guide the next chapter.

“One of PEFC New Zealand's first priorities is supporting the current revision of

AS/NZS 4708, the Australian/New Zealand Sustainable Forest Management Standard, with public consultation submissions closing on 7 August,” said Ross.

“We're encouraging everyone with an interest in sustainable forest management to have their say on the proposed amendment. Strong standards rely on input from across the sector”

The Timber Design Awards also highlighted the growing role of certified timber in New Zealand's built environment. Air New Zealand's Hangar 4, which incorporates PEFC-certified timber supplied by XLAM, took home the top spot, awarded the Resene Supreme Award, demonstrating how certification provides confidence in the provenance of forest products used in landmark developments.

“As part of the global PEFC alliance, PEFC New Zealand is working closely with Responsible Wood, the PEFC member for Australia, which continues to provide technical and administrative support as the New Zealand scheme grows,” said PEFC South Pacific Programme Manager, Richard Laity.

“By drawing on shared experience across the Tasman, we're helping ensure the scheme remains credible, cost-effective and fit for purpose, while meeting the needs of both New Zealand businesses and their customers.”