Difficulties managing regenerating tōtara under Part 3A of the Forests Act

Authors: Paul Quinlan, Jacqui Aimers
Publication: New Zealand Journal of Forestry, Volume N.Z.J.For. 2025, Issue N.Z.J.For. 70(3) 2025, pp Pages 40 - 45, Nov 2025
Publisher: New Zealand Institute of Forestry

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Abstract: This paper describes problems experienced by members of the Northland Tōtara Working Group with some of the provisions and interpretations of Part 3A of the Forests Act. Three examples of regulatory issues and difficulties are outlined: 1) Mapping requirements and the exclusion of trees outside of native forest boundaries; 2) No allowance to change a developing forest’s structure and composition; and 3) Inconsistent and unreasonable export controls. While not a complete record of regulatory issues, in our opinion these problems highlight some inadequacies with the Act, particularly a lack of provision for new and diverse forms of naturally regenerating native forests in rural landscapes. This leads us to the conclusion that an overhaul of this regulatory framework is required to better promote and support sustainable indigenous forestry on private land.

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