May 10

The New Zealand Institute of Forestry (NZIF) has welcomed the release of the Climate Change Commission’s 2026 National Climate Change Risk Assessment, particularly the recognition of forestry as one of New Zealand’s most significant climate related risks.

NZIF President James Treadwell said the report correctly recognises forests are already facing increasing pressure from climate change, including more severe storms, wildfire risk, drought, changing rainfall patterns, and increasing pest and disease threats.

“Forests are long term assets. Decisions made today will influence how resilient our landscapes and communities are for decades to come.” said Mr Treadwell.

“For commercial forestry this includes species choice, establishment, management and harvest planning but the long term decision framework applies even more to the management of the conservation estate under changing conditions and the preservation of our native taonga.”

“The report rightly highlights the need for stronger adaptation planning across the forestry sector.”

NZIF represents professional foresters working across all forest types in New Zealand, including indigenous forests, production forests, farm forestry, permanent forests, protection forests and urban forestry.

Mr Treadwell said forests play a critical role in New Zealand’s future, not only through carbon storage, but also through erosion control, biodiversity protection, water management, renewable materials, regional employment and landscape resilience.

“It is important the national discussion does not frame forestry solely as a risk. Well planned and professionally managed forests are also a major part of New Zealand’s response to climate change.”

NZIF supports the Commission’s call for improved long-term planning, better research and stronger coordination between central government, local government, iwi, researchers and the forestry sector.

The Institute believes the next National Adaptation Plan should include development of a national forestry adaptation programme focused on:

• improving forest resilience to climate change,
• strengthening wildfire and biosecurity preparedness,
• supporting research into species suitability and genetics,
• improving land use planning for erosion prone land,
• integrating climate resilience into ETS and carbon forestry settings,
• recognising the role of professional forestry expertise in adaptation planning.

Mr Treadwell said adaptation policy must reflect the diversity of New Zealand forestry.

“A one size fits all approach will not work. Different forest types, regions and ownership structures face different risks and opportunities.”

“The forestry sector is ready to work constructively with government and communities to help build more resilient landscapes and a more climate prepared New Zealand.”

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