The Long-term Significance of New Zealand's Expanding Afforestation Programme

Authors: A.P. Thomson, R.W.M. Williams
Publication: New Zealand Journal of Forestry, Volume N.Z.J.For. 1964, Issue N.Z.J.For. 9(1) 1964, pp 7-16, May 1964
Publisher: New Zealand Institute of Forestry

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Abstract: New Zealand has a high potential for the production of exotic softwoods and by undertaking an expanded afforestation programme is planning to increase her export surpluses. These will be available in the form of timber, pulp and paper products. Current exports are at the rate of 30 million cubic feet per year, mostly to Australia. The exportable surplus available from existing plantations is expected to be over 45 million cubic feet by 1975 and the expanded afforestation programme will have the effect of enlarging this surplus to 150 million cubic feet in the year 2000. Thus, New Zealand should have the potential to increase considerably her future export of softwood products to Australia. As it is unlikely that Australia can make herself self-sufficient in softwood forests, the demand for New Zealand's surplus should exist. It is concluded that co-ordinated planning of the forests and forest products industries of Australia and New Zealand could be of mutual benefit.

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