Business Central April 2025

62 | Forest 360 T T Anne Boswell Taking a full-circle approach to forestry Top team: Dan Gaddum, left, and Marcus Musson. With over 30 years of experience, Forest360 leverages a network of contractors, mills, ports and marketing specialists to optimise every stage of the forestry process. FORESTRY A full circle approach to forest management is not only behind Forest360’s name, but its business philosophy. Throughout New Zealand Forest360 provides end-to-end forestry management services, ensuring clients maximise returns on their investment. From initial land use assessment and investment analysis to planting, tending and harvesting, the company oversees every stage of the forestry lifecycle. They have experience across the board with forest operations, Land use and Harvesting and are truly professional in their approach. Forest360, formerly known as FOMS, was established in 2004 by Mike Bartells and Peter Gresham in response to market opportunities arising from the collapse of Fletcher Challenge Forests. Initially focused on harvesting and marketing logs from the Tokomaru East Forest Company (TEFCO) estate, the company quickly expanded to provide services to private forest owners throughout the Southern North Island. Recognising the need for comprehensive forest management, the company merged with a forest consultancy operation in 2018, rebranding as Forest360. Today, Forest360 is one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing and largest independent forest management businesses, built on a foundation of experienced personnel, robust systems and industry-leading processes. With over 30 years of experience, Forest360 leverages a network of contractors, mills, ports and marketing specialists to optimise every stage of the forestry process. Forestry is a long-term investment requiring specialised knowledge, skills and strategic planning. Effective forest management ensures sustainability, profitability and regulatory compliance. Forest owners face challenges such as fluctuating market conditions, environmental regulations and operational costs. Forest360 mitigates these risks through meticulous planning, efficient harvesting methods and strong industry partnerships. Their commitment to value recovery ensures that trees are processed into the highest-value grades, minimising waste and maximising financial returns. Forest360’s key services include land use advice and Emission Trading Scheme (ETS) consulting; forest establishment, pruning, thinning, and maintenance; pre-harvest inventory and financial projections; harvest planning and management (ground-based and cable harvesting); road and landing design and construction; direct marketing to domestic and international buyers; risk management, including fire prevention and insurance; GIS mapping and resource consent applications, and advocacy on behalf of clients with legal and financial professionals. With forestry being one of New Zealand’s most hazardous industries, health and safety is a top priority for Forest360. The company has developed a cloud-based Health and Safety Management system, ensuring compliance with the latest regulations. This system is ACC Tertiary accredited and undergoes regular independent audits to maintain high safety standards. Key safety initiatives include comprehensive policies, procedures and training programmes; real-time monitoring of operational risks; strict contractor performance audits,; incident prevention strategies and rapid response protocols. As New Zealand’s forestry sector evolves, Forest360 remains committed to innovation, sustainability and community support. The company sponsors environmental awards, local sports teams and charitable initiatives, reinforcing its dedication to responsible forestry and regional development. By continuously refining its services and adapting to industry changes, Forest360 ensures that its clients receive the best possible support, helping them grow their forest assets for generations to come. FOREST 360 WHANGANUI IS PROUD TO SUPPORT Moore Markhams Whanganui is part of a global network of offices, providing accounting and advisory services, advising local, national and international clients in the public and private sectors. (0)6 349 0888 wg@markhams.co.nz markhams.co.nz Whanganui (0)6 346 7070 wav@markhams.co.nz markhams.co.nz Waverley Accountants and Advisors Kiwi Lumber supplies an extensive range of structural, outdoor and appearance grade products to building merchants across New Zealand Telephone 0800 222 610 sales@kiwilumber.co.nz www.kiwilumber.com Kiwi Lumber is proud to be a customer and supporter of Forest 360 Dannevirke | Masterton | Gisborne | Putaruru

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