OneFortyOne
Three months since severe storms caused unprecedented damage to OneFortyOne’s forestry operations in the Nelson Tasman region, prompting what the company describes as one of the largest salvage recovery operations in the region’s forestry history.
The storm impacted 3,780 hectares of plantation forest, equating to approximately 1.5 million trees across OneFortyOne’s estate.
The damage was concentrated in the Tasman region where a combination of saturated soils and extreme wind conditions created the perfect conditions for widespread windthrow.
“The intensity and extent of this storm event was beyond anything we’ve experienced in this region,” said Shaun Truelock, Executive General Manager at OneFortyOne New Zealand.
“While we design our forests to be resilient, the combination of factors on that day simply overwhelmed even our most robust stands.”
OneFortyOne has mobilised a significant salvage operation, working against the clock to recover timber before it deteriorates. The scale of the operation has required additional crews, specialised equipment, and careful coordination across multiple sites.
“Every day matters when you’re dealing with downed timber. We’re running a substantial operation to recover as much value as possible while ensuring the safety of our crews and maintaining our environmental standards.”
The financial impact on OneFortyOne is substantial, with preliminary estimates indicating losses in the millions of dollars. The company is working through detailed valuations as the full extent becomes clearer. However, the salvage operation has provided a short-term economic boost to the Nelson Tasman region, with additional employment for contractors, harvesting crews, and transport operators.
“On the flip side, there’s been a short-term boost for the region,” said Shaun.
“We’ve brought in extra logging crews and truck drivers who are spending money on accommodation, food, and local services. While this doesn’t offset the long-term loss, it’s providing welcome economic activity in the immediate term.”
Despite this setback, OneFortyOne is already applying lessons from the storm to future management decisions. The company is identifying and removing particularly vulnerable trees in high-risk areas to reduce exposure in future weather events.
“We can’t prevent storms, but we can be smarter about where we carry risk. We’re taking a hard look at our most exposed areas and making decisions that will make our forests more resilient going forward.”
Shaun also acknowledged the collaboration and support they have received from Nelson City and Tasman District councils.
“Their proactive approach and their storm response has been exceptional.”
The company is also working with NZTA and local authorities on roadside planting along State Highway 6, where storm damage necessitated temporary closures.
“This storm was a significant setback, but our commitment to sustainable forestry in this region is unchanged. We’re learning, adapting, and positioning ourselves to manage future risks more effectively.”
