New Zealand Journal of Forestry (2015) 59(4): 44–46
©New Zealand Institute of Forestry

Opinion
Dealing with wood quality variability in radiata pine

Keith Mackie <sup>*,1

1</sup> CEO, Solid Wood Innovation, Rotorua. Email: keith.mackie@wqi.co.nz
^*Corresponding author.

Abstract: Radiata pine is the mainstay in New Zealand forestry. However, with rotations around 25 years its wood properties are nothing to crow about. Stiffness is poor in comparison with many other softwood forest species in the world, and issues with resin and compression wood make radiata appearance processing more of a challenge than we would like. In New Zealand we have successfully adapted building systems to accommodate lower stiffness lumber and remanufacturing of pruned radiata into high value products, such as exterior weatherboards, and solid clear boards is a key export business. But consumers are demanding higher performing wood products and our industry must deliver these or forgo markets to steel and imported wood alternatives.
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