Sector Innovation & impact on show at Fieldays Forestry Hub

The Fieldays Forestry Hub returns to Fieldays in 2026 for the fifth consecutive year, highlighting the important role forestry and wood processing play in supporting New Zealand’s economy, environment, and regional communities. 

Each year, forest growers and sector organisations come together at Fieldays to connect with the public, share knowledge, and tell the story of modern forestry. In 2026, the Hub will highlight the role forestry and wood processing play in New Zealand’s economy, alongside the sector’s ongoing focus on innovation, workforce development, and environmental management.  

“The Fieldays Forestry Hub is an important part of Fieldays, reflecting our role in showcasing the full depth of New Zealand’s primary industries. It highlights how forestry and wood processing sit alongside agriculture as a vital contributor to the country’s economy, innovation and sustainable land use”, says Fieldays Programme Manager Steve Chappell. 

Visitors to the Forestry Hub can expect a dynamic mix of educational sessions and interactive exhibits. These will cover key topics including forest growing, climate change, innovative wood products, engineered timber solutions for mid-rise construction, emerging bioenergy opportunities, biosecurity, and biodiversity.

The Hub will also provide insights into the wide range of career pathways across the forestry and wood processing sectors, highlighting future workforce opportunities. 

A popular feature returning this year is the virtual reality forestry simulator, offering participants the chance to step into the operator’s seat of modern forestry machinery. Designed with job seekers and students in mind, the immersive experience provides practical insight into today’s forestry operations and the advanced technology driving the sector. 

Families and young people will find plenty to explore, with hands-on activities such as tree identification challenges, trying on personal protective equipment, and displays showcasing innovative uses of wood — including surfboards made from timber. These interactive experiences aim to help people build an understanding of forestry practices while reinforcing the importance of safety and wellbeing. 

Throughout the event, a wide range of sector representatives will be on hand to share their expertise and answer questions. This includes forest growers, wood processors, scientists, business leaders, volunteer organisations, membership and research bodies, and government agencies working across the forestry and wood processing landscape. 

The Growing Native Forests Champions Awards will be presented, to recognise individuals and groups leading efforts to establish native forests, share knowledge and support biodiversity and regenerative forestry outcomes.  

MPI Director Forestry Engagement and Advice Ray Hook says the annual event highlights the skill, pride, and professionalism of the people within the sector. 

“Fieldays offers us the chance to make the sector more visible, approachable and human, and to answer the public’s questions about forestry and wood processing,” he says. 

“The Forestry Hub showcases the quality and innovation of New Zealand timber, from forest to finished product. It helps people understand how wood supports low‑carbon construction, high‑value manufacturing and sustainable land use, while creating regional jobs and supporting thriving communities.”  

Wood Processing and Manufacturers Association Chief Executive Mark Ross says Fieldays highlights the value derived from New Zealand’s sustainably managed forests. 

“By standing alongside farmers and industry leaders we emphasise the role wood products play in supporting on-farm productivity and innovation. New Zealand timber remains a preferred building material in rural communities — valued for its flexibility, resilience, cost-effectiveness, and availability.” 

New Zealand Forest Owners Association chief executive Dr Elizabeth Heeg says forestry plays a critical role in New Zealand’s economy and regional communities, supporting jobs, investment and the supply of renewable, low-carbon building materials. 

“Fieldays is about showing the scale and reality of modern forestry – a sector that is highly skilled, increasingly technology-driven and central to how New Zealand produces and uses wood-based products,” she says. 

“It also reflects the diversity of forestry ownership across Aotearoa, including Māori landowners, who hold a significant share of forestry land and bring intergenerational perspectives on land use and long-term stewardship of whenua, as well as farm foresters who integrate trees into wider farming systems and rural economies. 

“Across the value chain – from establishing forests through to advanced wood processing and manufacturing – forestry continues to evolve in response to changing expectations around productivity, innovation and environmental outcomes. 

“Ultimately, forestry is a long-term sector shaped by the people behind it, and trees and forests will continue to play a central role in New Zealand’s future economy, land use and regional communities.” 

Visit this year’s Forestry Hub at Site G80, from 10–13 June at Mystery Creek Events Centre, Hamilton.