Vale Dr. John A. KininmonthFriday 15 May 2026
John is remembered for his lifelong contribution to the advancement of forest science, timber technology, and the development of New Zealand's internationally respected forestry sector. Through decades of service with the New Zealand Forest Research Institute in Rotorua - Scion, now known as the Bioeconomy Science Institute Maiangi Taiao - he helped shape the direction of forestry and forest products research during a transformative period for the industry. John combined scientific rigour with a deep practical understanding of forestry and wood utilisation. His work ranged from timber properties and wood processing to broader strategic issues affecting the forest products sector. Colleagues valued his thoughtful leadership, technical expertise, and commitment to ensuring that research remained closely connected to the needs of industry and the sustainable stewardship of New Zealand's forest resources. Throughout his career, John played an important role in fostering collaboration between researchers, forest managers, and wood processing industries. He contributed to major conferences and publications that helped guide the development of radiata pine processing and conversion technologies in New Zealand. He was also recognised for documenting and preserving the history of forestry research in this country through his landmark publication A History of Forestry Research in New Zealand, commemorating 50 years of research at the Forest Research Institute. Those who worked alongside John remember him as an intelligent, measured, and generous colleague whose knowledge of forestry and wood science was matched by his encouragement of younger scientists and professionals entering the sector. His contribution extended beyond research itself to strengthening the culture of innovation and scientific excellence within New Zealand forestry. John's legacy lives on in the institutions he helped build, the research programmes he influenced, and the many people across forestry and wood products industries who benefited from his guidance and leadership. He will be remembered with respect and gratitude by colleagues, friends, and the wider forestry community. | ||
Copyright 2004-2026 © Innovatek Ltd. All rights reserved. |
