Pan Pac Forest Products plans to substantially upgrade the sawmill log infeed system at its Whirinaki (Hawke’s Bay) site in New Zealand.

The investment (at approximately NZ$13 million) to replace the sawmill log infeed system originally installed in the early 1980s highlights the continued commitment of Pan Pac’s shareholder Oji Holdings, said Pan Pac Managing Director Tony Cliifford.

‘Such strategic investments have helped to establish Pan Pac as New Zealand’s largest appearance grade exporter of premium lumber,’ said Mr Clifford. ‘In addition, we remain committed to the growth of the local manufacturing sector.’

Pan Pac has operated the sawmill at Whirinaki since 1974, while its second sawmill in Milburn, Otago was established in 2015.

Springer Maschinernfabrik GmbH has been awarded the contract for the project utilising local companies Lakeland Steel Limited and Design Manufacture & Installation from Rotorua. Pan Pac General Manager – Lumber Michael Reaburn said Springer’s expertise, industry leading approach and competitiveness made the decision clear for Pan Pac.

‘Pan Pac has a strong history of adopting international technology to enhance operations and improve lumber quality for our global customers from a New Zealand manufacturing base,’ said Mr Reaburn. The installation date is set for a planned shutdown period in late 2022, to allow for full engineering supply from Europe and the safe installation adjacent to the existing log infeed to minimise downtime.

Source: Pan Pac