OFO Kaituna Sawmill, Nelson NZ
Timberlink and OneFortyOne’s New Zealand operations have resumed this week as New Zealand moved from Alert Level 4 to Alert Level 3 this week. Source: Timberbiz
New Zealand moved to Alert Level 4 last month causing both Timberlink and OneFortyOne to shut their operations in that country.
Deliveries from Timberlink’s Blenheim mill resumed operations on Wednesday. Australian customers who purchase New Zealand treated H3 products should start to see delivery dates returning to normal over the next few weeks.
Stock of some products such as Timberlink’s high Grade Clear and Finger Jointed products will take a few more weeks to return to pre-shutdown levels as the mill works on building feedstock.
OneFortyOne Executive General Manager Lees Seymour said the company was glad to be able to support Alert Level 4 objectives and had spent the four weeks preparing for a safe and effective return to business. Its Kaituna Sawmill also went back online this week.
“The OneFortyOne New Zealand team has been dedicated to planning for a smooth return to business for our employees and suppliers. We were pleased to return to work safely and responsibly,” Mr Seymour said.
“Whilst the country was at Alert Level 4, we were able to pay the team’s full salary and the wage subsidy did help us achieve that. We are now looking forward to getting back to work, supporting our employees, contractors and the economy.”
More than 50% of the timber from the Nelson Forest Estate is delivered to the domestic market and 60% of our timber customers are Australasian.
Mr Seymour said that the company had remained financially profitable in challenging markets and remains committed to the industry, region and local communities.
“We have supported the future of the industry by investing in education through curriculum development, scholarships, graduate roles, apprenticeships and vacation job programs,” he said.
“We have also supported the future of our communities by supporting initiatives that promote regions, culture and the environment.”
