The WIDE Trust is pleased to support five forestry professionals to attend the NZIF Centennial Conference through complimentary conference registration.

This opportunity recognises people who contribute to professional forestry beyond the normal requirements of their employment. We are looking for applicants who actively give their time, knowledge or energy to strengthen the profession, support others and promote a positive future for forestry in Aotearoa New Zealand.

What the grant covers

Each successful applicant will receive one complimentary registration to the NZIF Centennial Conference, which include the awards dinner and the field trip.

Unless otherwise advised, the support does not include travel, accommodation, meals outside the conference programme or other associated costs.

Eligibility

Applicants must:

• Be working, studying or actively involved in forestry, wood processing, forest science, land management or a closely related field in New Zealand.

• Demonstrate a genuine commitment to professional forestry.

• Be available to attend the full conference.

• Have limited or no access to employer funding for conference registration.

• Be willing to share knowledge or insights gained from the conference with colleagues, students, their community or the wider profession.

• Agree to be acknowledged as a WIDE Trust supported attendee.

Applications are welcome from people at all career stages. Early career professionals, people working in smaller organisations, contractors, regional practitioners and those who might not otherwise be able to attend are particularly encouraged to apply.

Selection criteria

Applications will be assessed against the following criteria:

Contribution beyond the day job

Evidence the applicant contributes time, expertise or leadership beyond their usual employment responsibilities. Examples may include:

• Mentoring students or early career professionals.

• Supporting forestry education, training or career promotion activities.

• Volunteering for NZIF, industry groups, community organisations or environmental initiatives.

• Speaking at schools, careers events or community meetings.

• Promoting professional standards, ethics and good forestry practice.

• Contributing to public understanding of forestry.

• Supporting professional networks, regional events or knowledge sharing.

• Encouraging greater participation and inclusion within the profession.

Benefit from attending

A clear explanation of how attending the conference will support the applicant’s professional development, confidence, networks or ability to contribute to the sector.

Benefit to others

A practical plan for sharing conference knowledge or using the experience to benefit colleagues, students, communities or the wider forestry profession.

Commitment to the future of forestry

Evidence of enthusiasm for a resilient, innovative, ethical and sustainable forestry sector in New Zealand.

Applications close: 5pm April 30, 2027

Successful applicants notified: 21 May 2027

Late or incomplete applications may not be considered.

Assessment process

Applications will be reviewed by representatives of NZIF and the WIDE Trust. Their decision will be final.

Information provided in this application will be used only to administer and promote the sponsored registration programme. Personal information will be handled in accordance with applicable privacy requirements.