Growing Better Forests Together

At Abodo® we believe that responsible, healthy, New Growth forests are created through strong partnerships that prioritise long-term environmental outcomes. That’s why we’re proud to work alongside Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) certified Kaingaroa Tipu, managers of the globally renowned Kaingaroa Forest Estate, New Zealand’s largest sustainable harvest forest.

Kaingaora Tipu shares Abodo’s commitment to responsible timber production that preserves habitats, protects local water sources, and supports native species. Together, we are working to ensure that Kaingaroa Forest Estate’s expansive living ecosystem continues to flourish for generations. “We manage about 200,000 hectares of trees that get processed mostly for the domestic market,” says Steve Gatenby, Environmental Specialist at Kaingaroa Tipu.

These native areas are thriving under the care of Kaingaroa Tipu, in particular 5 Mile Wetland, one of several wetland areas within Whakarewarewa Forest. “Protecting places like this is an ongoing effort,” Steve says, “and predator control is a big part of that, especially in wetlands where vulnerable bird species live.”

To support predator prevention and protect native birdlife in Kaingaroa Forest Estate, Abodo has donated 100 biodiversity-boosting pest traps made from offcuts from our timber production processes. “This marks a full-circle journey back to the forest, not as waste, but as something that can protect the ecosystem,” says Jade Harris, Abodo Sustainability Lead. “It’s a simple idea showing how thoughtful partnerships can turn everyday materials into practical solutions for the future.”

Since the initiative launched in May 2026, these traps have been working overtime, with 220 pests caught in just the first four weeks alone, including ship rats, hedgehogs, and mice. “We’re now able to support a network of pest traps that support the work already happening here,” Steve says.

“Because of this popular public area, using a safe, chemical-free method is really important. This approach protects local biodiversity while keeping the wetland safe for everyone to enjoy.”

This work builds on the efforts of many partners, community groups, iwi, and mana whenua who care for the 5 Mile Wetland and surrounding landscapes. Our values-aligned collaboration with Kaingaroa Tipu - where timber production and environmental stewardship go hand in hand - is one that Abodo is proud to be a part of as we work together to take action for positive change.

“From growing next-generation trees to protecting the landscapes this forest exists within,” Jade says, “this partnership reflects a shared commitment to the ecosystems that make future forests thrive.”