FOR WOOD PROCESSORS and USERS

Eucalypt wood has been used in New Zealand since the early settlers arrived here and began importing wood from Australia. The Treaty House at Waitangi is built from imported eucalypt wood.  Durable eucalypt wood is used for a wide range of applications in Australia, and the first durable eucalypt trees were planted by early settlers, impressed by their proven performance in Australia. 

The challenge faced by NZDFI and other alternative species growers in New Zealand is to develop a supply chain.

As a key part of this, NZDFI wood technology researchers at the University of Canterbury School of Forestry are exploring the suitability of New Zealand-grown durable eucalypts for different end uses.  Potential applications include solid wood products such as posts, poles and joinery timbers, engineered wood (e.g. laminated veneer lumber and cross-laminated timber), biomass for biofuel, and oil extracted from foliage.

NZDFI wood technology research is directly linked to our breeding programme and to our vision for regional processing hubs. We are focusing on products which will be produced from our two main recommended regimes: (i) a short-rotation post and pole regime and (ii) a longer rotation sawlog regime. Both these regimes could also produce veneer for engineered wood products.

Visit our Guidelines for Wood Processors and Users section to learn more about durable eucalypt wood and its many potential applications.