Winners
CNIWC Awards 2024
Resilience – Strong Theme in 2024 Awards
August 11 2024
NZ Forest Managers (NZFM) has received accolades for their exceptional industry collaboration efforts following the impact of Cyclone Gabrielle on the forests around Turangi. The collaboration spearheaded by NZFM not only facilitated a swift and effective response to the aftermath of Cyclone Gabrielle but also provided avenues for displaced workers to partake in the salvage operation, showcasing a testament to their commitment to sustainable forestry practices. Presented by the Central North Island Wood Council CEO, Damita Mita in conjunction with Lake Taupo Forest Trust Trustee, Ngahere Wall, the special award was acknowledging National Forest Industry Collaboration.
Opening speech by the Honourable Minister Todd McClay, spoke to the audience on how forestry has an important role to play for the country along with climate change, employment offerings and the significant 35% contribution to the national economy.
He remarked.” The sector needs certainty now and we want to find a way to work more closely together. One strategy was to set up the framework which allows the industry to do what they do so well and setting up clear rules for the ETS will also provide that certainty.”
Returning to India this week, Minister McLay will be discussing the reduction in the barriers for log exports, but gave his congratulations to those who work in the industry and were nominated for the awards, with respect for the hard mahi required to keep the industry moving.
There was a dual winner for the Female in Forestry category once again with industry trailblazer, Henri Raroa of Kuru Contracting Ltd, being applauded for her 26 years of logistical expertise, setting high standards not just for herself but for her team as well. Her ability to adapt in dynamic environments, adept problem-solving skills, and unwavering commitment to best practices and safety have earned her respect as a role model for women in forestry.
Adding to the duo win, Waipiata Matautia of Green Transport Ltd was commended for breaking gender barriers and excelling in various roles within the male-dominated forestry industry. Her leadership, dedication, and expertise have made her an invaluable asset to her company.
Alex Mudford of Heli A1 was celebrated for his exceptional Forest Protection & Services Excellence, showcasing a meticulous approach, unwavering dedication to high standards, and exemplary leadership qualities in navigating the complexities of their work with competence and confidence.
Furthermore, Matthew Owen of NZFM was recognized as the Hero of the Year for his courageous leadership during the Cyclone Gabrielle recovery efforts, solidifying his commitment to safety, sustainability, and mentorship within the forestry community.
The awards ceremony also honoured McCormick Logging for Outstanding Environmental Management, Smiley Alexander of Fast Group for Outstanding Health & Safety Management, and Richard Stringfellow of Fit4Work for Outstanding Regional Service, acknowledging their significant contributions and commitment to best practices within the forestry sector.
Award celebrations were entertained by the vivacious personality of Jackie Clarke to a favourable audience who were delighted to be together again to celebrate their heroes post the last awards in 2023.
The forestry industry remains resilient despite challenges, with a bright future upheld by the exemplary efforts of industry heroes and the collaborative spirit demonstrated by all involved. The Central North Island Wood Council looks forward to continued success and sustainability in forestry with the support of dedicated professionals and stakeholders.
Sponsors
GOLD:
P F Olsen
Taumata Plantations Ltd/Tiaki Plantations Company
Toi Ohomai
Timberlands
First Security
The WIDE Trust
Wildlands
Manulife Investment Management
SILVER:
Vavoline
UAA & Dawson InsuranceRFH
Terrain Industries
LTSC
Ingka
SWIFT
Claymark
Competenz
South Waikato District Council
NZME
Safetree
Te Uru Rakau
NZ Safety Blackwoods
BRONZE:
Aztec Logging
C3
Komatsu
Finance NZ
Trimble Forestry
UDC
NZ Safety Blackwoods
Deals on Wheels
Rotorua NZ
Green Transport
Ensign
Gresham House Asset Management
The Winners
SKILLED PROFESSIONALS
Industry Training Achievement of the Year (sponsored by Competenz):
Neihana Brewer (Fast Frontier Logging Ltd)
Runner-up: Levi Casey (Fast Frontier Logging Ltd)
Silvicultural Excellence (sponsored by South Waikato Investment Fund Trust):
Damon Morgan (Ace of Spades Contracting Ltd)
Forest Protection and Services Excellence (sponsored by Valvoline):
Alex Mudford (Heli A1)
Runner-up: Casey Roper (C&R Forest Inventory Services)
Harvesting Excellence (sponsored by Terrain Industries):
Holden Gibbs (Gibbs Logging Ltd)
Runner-up: Conrad (Chopper) Mill (Vanner Logging Ltd)
Distribution Excellence (sponsored by RFH):
Te Amo Kingi (NXFM/Trimble)
Log Processing Excellence (sponsored by Ingka):
Damian Hemopo (Tainui Logging)
Runner-up: Laura Solomon-Ahipu (Fast Logging Ltd)
Log Truck Driver Excellence (sponsored by LTSC):
Bruce McCarthy (McCarthy Log Haulage LTD)
Forest Engineering Excellence (sponsored by UAA & Dawson Insurance):
Jono Sheehan (MHS Contractors Ltd)
Wood Processing & Manufacturing Excellence (sponsored by Claymark):
Hardeep (Johnny) Singh (Claymark Group)
Outstanding Environmental Management (sponsored by Manulife):
McCormick Logging
Outstanding Health and Safety Management (sponsored by Tiaki Plantations Company/Taumata Plantations Ltd/Manulife):
Smiley Alexander (Fast Group)
Outstanding Regional Service Award (sponsored by PF Olsen):
Richard Stringfellow (Fit4Work)
Female in Forestry Award (sponsored by Timberlands):
Henri Raroa (Kuru Contracting Ltd) and Waipiata Matautia (Green Transport Ltd)
Best Native Forest Enterprise Award (sponsored by Wildlands):
Timberlands Ltd
Hero of the Year Award (sponsored by First Security):
Matthew Owen (NZFM (2022) LP)
Generation Programme Graduate of the Year (sponsored by South Waikato District Council):
Max Cumming (CNIWC)
Good Deed Award (sponsored by Safetree):
Mereana (Min) Tobenhouse, (Fast Harvesting Ltd.)
SPECIAL AWARD
National Forest Industry Collaboration Award (sponsored by the CNI Wood Council): New Zealand Forest Managers
