36 | On-site processing for value optimisation Bernadette Cooney Rotorua-based logging contractor, H&R Harvesting Ltd has been an integral part of New Zealand’s forestry industry for 24 years, providing efficient woodlot harvesting for private landowners and corporate forestry companies throughout Rotorua Lakes and Bay of Plenty districts. Operating three experienced and qualified crews including cable logging and ground-based harvesting crews, H&R Harvesting is responsible for felling, processing, and loading logs onto trucks for transport to mills or ports. On site processing of logs for value optimisation is the aim and track record for this family owned and operated company led by a logger with 34 years in the industry. Rodney Hubbard and his wife Ngahuia of Ngati Te Arawa iwi, established their own contracting company 24 years ago, following Rodney’s first 10 years in the industry. Today, H& R Harvesting is a trusted name in forestry harvesting and log processing with a team of 25 across all aspects of the business offering robust, accurate and safe logging contracting services. “We’re very much a proudly family owned and operated business,” says Rodney. “Ngahuia manages our health and safety and accounts, our daughter and daughter-in-law take care of office duties, and our two sons Johnson and Terry operate a logging crew each. Rodney’s nephew and others also contribute to the company’s success. “We’re a logging family and every contribution made is as valuable as any other,” says Rodney. “It takes teamwork and that’s where we can rely on whanau to step up to the plate when we need them.” Each crew specialises in different aspects, from cable logging and ground-based harvesting to steep-slope operations, where advanced machinery is used to lower workers and equipment down slopes to safely harvest timber. The company is fully mechanised, with over 20 pieces of modern excavation equipment, GPS technology and mechanical heads for value optimisation. This ensures that the wood is cut efficiently and with maximum value, benefiting both the forest owners and the mills. H&R Harvesting contract to corporate forestry company Manulife Investment Management and while corporate work forms the core of their business, H&R Harvesting also serve local farmers RURAL SERVICES » H&R Harvesting Ltd Weiler S550 skidder in action. and landowners with smaller scale operations, offering their expertise in timber harvesting. “While its mostly Radiata, we’ll harvest all plantation species including Lusitanica and we’re currently working direct for mill owner, Mac Direct, bringing in his Macrocarpa destined for his mill based at Patumahoe, near Pukekohe,” says Rodney. Recent downturns across the forestry industry were being felt across the board says Rodney, noting that the sector is experiencing one of the toughest periods in his career. “With overseas markets in decline and timber mills shutting down, it’s a tough time for many,” says Rodney. “The domestic market for logs is not too bad, but the effects since covid continue to impact demand and pricing for export logs.” Despite this, H&R Harvesting continues to offer CUTTING-EDGE FORESTRY TECHNOLOGY PROUD TO SUPPORT H&R HARVESTING LTD 60 Riri Street, Rotorua Office: 07 3483655 Mobile: 021 611 269 1306%-: 4611035*/( )3 )"37&45*/( Connect with us for all your personal and business insurance needs. dawson.co.nz | 0800 32 00 32 landowners and forest management companies a comprehensive solution, from stump to truck, ensuring that every harvest is handled efficiently and profitably. H&R Harvesting’s strength lies in its combination of experience and its dedicated family team.
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