Sophie Cusack, a dedicated forestry student, recently reflected on a year filled with valuable learning opportunities, leadership roles, and hands-on industry experience, all made possible with support from the WIDE Trust.

In October, over 200 industry leaders gathered at WoodWorks 2024, a pivotal event dedicated to advancements in engineered wood design and construction. From innovative mass timber technologies like LVL and CLT to sustainable design strategies, the conference provided an immersive look at timber's growing impact on commercial construction.

The 2024 New Zealand Institute of Forestry (NZIF) conference in Nelson brought together forestry professionals, researchers, and industry leaders to discuss the future of forestry in New Zealand. Thanks to WIDE Trust’s sponsorship, several attendees had the opportunity to deepen their knowledge, explore sustainable practices, and network with peers.

The WIDE Trust's commitment to nurturing future forestry leaders was showcased this September through its support of students attending the prestigious ForestSAT 2024 conference in Rotorua, New Zealand.

At the WIDE Trust, we are proud to support the educational journeys of dedicated and passionate students pursuing wood or forestry related studies. This mid-year report showcases the progress and experiences of several grant recipients who are making the most of their opportunities. Here are their stories and achievements so far.

ArchEngBuild 2024 brought together 30 of Aotearoa New Zealand’s top architecture, engineering, and construction students for an intense and inspiring competition held in Ōtautahi Christchurch. Hosted at the University of Canterbury from July 2nd to 4th, this year’s event challenged students to design an affordable and sustainable urban housing development for the heart of Christchurch.

The Environmental Forestry 2024 event, proudly supported by the WIDE Trust, showcased the convergence of industry expertise and youthful innovation. Bringing together over 150 representatives from the forest industry, local and central government, the event provided a comprehensive platform for discussing, learning, and networking about sustainable forestry practices.

The Timber Technology Thesis Vertical Teaching Program at the University of Auckland’s School of Architecture & Planning has reached new heights in 2023, thanks to a generous $13,300 grant from the WIDE Trust.

The University of Canterbury School of Forestry recently hosted the highly successful Innovative Wood Product Competition for the 2024 academic year.

New Zealand's forestry and wood industries hold immense potential and offer exciting opportunities for growth. Chris Grinter, a trustee of the WIDE Trust and the principal of Rotorua Boys' High School, has an optimistic vision for these sectors.

New Zealand's forestry sector is not just growing; it's brimming with opportunities. Supported by organisations like the WIDE Trust and the Forest Growers Levy Trust ‘Forestry Careers NZ’ work programme, this industry beckons those eager to make a meaningful impact on the environment, economy, and their personal growth. 

At the recent Timber Design Awards, the University of Auckland's School of Architecture and Planning stood in the limelight, showcasing outstanding projects that received support from the WIDE Trust.

In November 2023, the Wood Industry Development and Education Trust (WIDE Trust) received the honour of being inducted into the Chancellor’s Circle at the University of Auckland.

In her first year pursuing a Bachelor of Forestry, Emily Herd's educational journey has been profoundly enriched by a $10,000 grant from the WIDE Trust. Emily has shared her reflections on the diverse learning experiences she has encountered and highlights the instrumental role the WIDE Trust has played in nurturing her growing passion for forestry.

At the heart of the WIDE Trust's mission is the commitment to empower aspiring individuals in the forestry and wood industry through scholarships and grants. Caylee-Grace Brown, a promising student pursuing a Bachelor of Engineering with Honours at the University of Canterbury, stands as a testament to the impact of WIDE Trust's support.

The WIDE Trust is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of leaders in the forestry and wood sectors in New Zealand. One of the avenues through which the trust accomplishes this mission is by offering Undergraduate Study grants to passionate and driven students embarking on their tertiary education journey.

ForestTECH 2023 was a resounding success, drawing over 300 delegates from diverse backgrounds within the forestry and wood industry. This annual event has become a beacon for showcasing the latest technological advancements and fostering collaboration among professionals globally.

The 2023 ANZIF Conference held from October 15 to 18, 2023, proved to be a transformative experience for the four WIDE Trust-sponsored students who attended. Liam Walker, Ryan Doyle, Emma Walters and Nathan Wright had the opportunity to delve into a diverse range of forestry topics, connect with like-minded individuals, and showcase their research to an engaged audience.

We had the opportunity to sponsor the attendance of many young professionals from various backgrounds at the Carbon Forestry 2023 event, fostering discussions and valuable connections.