Aspects of Labour in New Zealand

Authors: R. Fenton, C.J. Terlesk
Publication: New Zealand Journal of Forestry, Volume N.Z.J.For. 1971, Issue N.Z.J.For. 16(2) 1971, pp 208-222, Aug 1971
Publisher: New Zealand Institute of Forestry

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Abstract: Forestry and forest industries absorb 3.7% of the national labour force. Labour comprises about 40 to 50% of total forest and forest industry costs. Annual labour turnover rates in State forestry are rarely less than 100%; staff turnover averages 15%). All forest and forest industry activities have above-average accident rates; logging is an exceptionally dangerous industry. Strikes are relatively rare, other than in the pulp and paper section.

Undesirable features in the social structure of forestry and. forest industries include lack of employment for other family members; curtailment of individual rights; the establishment of one-industry towns; and poor social facilities. Management has tended to compare present conditions with the past — particularly the Depression of the 1930s, and not with current conditions elsewhere. Forest management has not been sufficiently positive in attracting and retaining a stable, skilled, labour force.

Forest Service training has been widespread for over 20 years, but research into labour is surprisingly limited.

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