It's hoped a new fund will unleash opportunities for New Zealand's domestic wood processing sector.

Government is putting $57 million into the industry, aiming to process more logs onshore, create high-wage jobs and aid climate change goals.

Forest Industry Contractors Association Chief Executive Prue Younger told Kate Hawkesby the problem the industry is facing is heavy reliance on export markets.

She says when those markets are down, the workforce is significantly impacted and not only are the trees not being sold, but contractors are losing days at work.

LISTEN ABOVE

It's hoped a new fund will unleash opportunities for New Zealand's domestic wood processing sector.
Government is putting $57 million into the industry, aiming to process more logs onshore, create high-wage jobs and aid climate change goals.
Forest Industry Contractors Association Chief Executive Prue Younger told Kate Hawkesby the problem the industry is facing is heavy reliance on export markets.
She says when those markets are down, the workforce is significantly impacted and not only are the trees not being sold, but contractors are losing days at work.
LISTEN ABOVE

A fresh and intelligent start to your day - catch the very latest international and domestic news developments, sport, entertainment and business on Early Edition with Ryan Bridge, on Newstalk ZB.

A fresh and intelligent start to your day - catch the very latest international and domestic news developments, sport, entertainment and business on Early Edition with Ryan Bridge, on Newstalk ZB.