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Councils in Tairāwhiti are responding to uncertainty following an announcement from Juken New Zealand Limited, with local leaders focusing on the potential impacts for jobs and the regional economy.
The forestry and wood-processing company, which has operated in New Zealand since 1990, is a significant player in the sector and has long been linked to employment and economic activity in Gisborne and surrounding areas.
In response to the latest development, councils say they are working to understand the full implications of the company’s position and what it could mean for workers, whānau and local businesses.
There is concern about the potential economic fallout in a region that has previously relied heavily on forestry and processing industries, with any disruption expected to have a ripple effect across contractors, suppliers and the wider community.
Councils are signalling a focus on supporting affected workers and maintaining regional resilience, while also engaging with central government and industry stakeholders on possible next steps.
The situation comes amid ongoing challenges in the forestry sector, including fluctuating global demand and market pressures, which have previously affected operations and employment in the region.
Local authorities say their priority is ensuring communities are supported through any transition, while exploring opportunities to strengthen the region’s economic base going forward.
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