Northland Mill to close [NZ]Friday 17 Jul 2026
This decision follows an extensive process to identify a buyer or alternative arrangement that would allow the mill to continue operating in a financially sustainable way. Over recent months, we explored a range of options, including a sale process and other potential business arrangements. Despite those efforts, we were unable to identify a viable pathway forward. Before reaching this decision, we undertook a formal consultation process with employees and union representatives. We carefully considered the feedback received and would like to thank everyone who participated in that process. We recognise the significance of this announcement for our employees, their whānau and the wider Northland community. Many people have dedicated years of service to Northland Mill, and we acknowledge the impact this decision will have. Our focus now is supporting affected employees through the next stage of the process. This includes discussions about redeployment opportunities across JNL, as well as access to a range of services including financial advice, wellbeing support, and employment and training opportunities. The current plan is for the mill to close by 21st August 2026. Production activity will gradually reduce over the coming weeks as remaining work is completed. While the decision has been made to close Northland Mill, we remain open to conversations with potential buyers and continue to explore opportunities relating to the land and assets. We will provide further updates if there are any developments. The decision relates to Northland Mill only. By way of a reminder, Northland Mill produces veneer only. Triboard and Strandboard produced at Triboard Mill and J-frame, J-ply and solid wood produced at Wairarapa Mill are not impacted by this announcement. The process to explore a potential sale of Triboard as a going concern remains ongoing. JNL remains committed to New Zealand and to maintaining a sustainable forestry and manufacturing business here. Decisions relating to the Kaitaia mills have been made with the long-term viability of the wider business in mind. Source & image credit: Juken New Zealand --- Further reading: Time ticking on successful outcome for Juken Kaitāia mills Time is running out to save two significant mills in Kaitāia from closure say Northland Regional Council (NRC), Far North District Council (FNDC) and Northland NZ (NNZ) who are calling on central government step in to limit job losses, as NNZ continues to work with potential investors. Juken New Zealand, a Japanese-owned company, announced earlier this year it was seeking expressions of interests to buy its two mills in Kaitāia – Northland Mill and Triboard plant. That offer process closed at the end of May. Government investment would see good financial returns, jobs and capability retained in the region, and it would protect our forestry industry, while closing the Northland Mill and Triboard plant would devastate the Far North town and Te Tai Tokerau Northland, says Head of Investment at NNZ, Tui Rutherford. “Conservative modelling predicts that investing right now will generate a good return over five years on an initial government investment. Acting soon also avoids economic damage and disruption which will cost the government dearly in the long term.” More >> Source: Northland NZ | ||
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