WoodTECH 2026 programmes released and registrations open

The Forest Industry Engineering Association (FIEA) have officially unveiled the full programmes for WoodTECH 2026, the Southern Hemisphere’s premier event for sawmilling and wood processing innovation. With the release of two distinct agendas tailored for the New Zealand and Australian markets, registrations are now live for the biennial conference series.

Themed “Sawmilling & Wood Processing Innovations: Improving Productivity & Advancing Operations,” WoodTECH 2026 will return to the region in June 2026:

• Rotorua, New Zealand: 18-19 June 2026, Distinction Hotel
• Brisbane, Australia: 23-24 June 2026, voco Brisbane City Centre

Two Countries, Two Focused Agendas

Today’s announcement marks a significant milestone in the event’s planning, with the release of two comprehensive programmes featuring international technology providers and local industry pioneers.

In New Zealand (18-19 June 2026), the programme leads with a keynote from Tony Johnston, Executive Director of Wood Engineering Technology (WET), focusing on optimized engineered lumber. The agenda highlights operational excellence, closed-loop size control, and the “zero light” manufacturing concept from global leaders like LINCK and Springer.

In Australia (23-24 June 2026), the focus shifts to industry-wide progress with a keynote from Ian Blanden, Head of R&D at Forest & Wood Products Australia (FWPA). A major highlight for the Australian event is the session “Splinters to Structures,” featuring Tim Woods (Industry Edge) and Prof. Benoit Gilbert (Griffith University), discussing the breakthrough transition of Bluegum from pulpwood to high-value Glulam.

Technology at the Forefront

Both programmes showcase a heavy emphasis on the “next wave” of wood processing, including:

• AI and Robotics: Presentations from Finnos Oy (Finland) and DO2 (Canada) on AI-powered scanning and robotic planer mill applications.
• Advanced Sawing: Cutting-edge bandsaw guidance systems from EWD (Germany).
• Mill Optimisation: Insights into the hidden ROI of technology decision-making and secure wood residual storage.

“WoodTECH 2026 is about more than just looking at new machines; it’s about the integration of research and smart operating practices into daily operations,” says John Stulen, Director of Innovatek. “With registrations now open and the full programmes available, companies can now plan their attendance to ensure their production and engineering teams stay ahead of the curve.”

Registrations Now Live

Early bird registrations and group booking discounts are now available via the event website. Given the record attendance at previous in-person WoodTECH events, industry members—including mill managers, saw-doctors, and technology suppliers—are encouraged to secure their spots early.

For more information, to view the full programmes, or to register, visit www.woodtech.events.