School of Forestry Event at the University of Canterbury – Wednesday 30 June 2027

The School of Forestry is excited to host delegates from around the world for a fun and interactive evening on campus in Christchurch, as part of the NZIF Centennial Field Trip. Since its re-establishment in 1969, the School has produced a large number of graduates, the majority of whom have gone on to work across the forestry industry, both in New Zealand and internationally.

From seed to harvest, forests are managed throughout their lifecycle by many of these graduates. Their roles span nursery management, silviculture, planning, engineering, and harvesting, with a shared focus on maximising value while maintaining strong environmental stewardship.

The School’s influence extends well beyond the forest gate. Graduates contribute across the wider sector, including supply chain and logistics, technical consulting, and policy development, shaping the ongoing success of the industry. The School has long served as a gateway into the profession for New Zealand foresters, with many graduates becoming active members of the NZIF. Their collective contribution to the Institute—alongside that of the School’s staff—has been substantial.

The School has also played a leading role in forestry research and development, contributing extensively to the New Zealand Journal of Forestry and broader industry knowledge. It continues to attract researchers from around the world, bringing perspectives from diverse forest systems—from the dry forests of sub-Saharan Africa to the cold conditions of northern regions—adding an important international dimension to forestry in New Zealand.

The evening will be a relaxed and engaging occasion, featuring a campus tour, brief presentations and speeches from School of Forestry staff, followed by a ceremonial planting and dinner. Future Foresters will also be involved, with a few light-hearted quizzes to test your forestry knowledge.