WIDE Trust scholars are gaining hands-on experience and industry insights through fieldwork, innovation projects, and real-world learning. Their Semester One highlights show how WIDE Trust support is helping them grow into future leaders in forestry and environmental science.

WIDE Trust grant recipients are making strong progress across forestry, environmental science, and engineering fields. From hands-on industry experience to research and community outreach, these students are applying their studies to real-world challenges. Their dedication highlights the vital role of education in shaping New Zealand’s environmental future.

WIDE Trust is proud to support the 2025 Innovative Wood Product Competition, a national initiative that brings together top student talent in forestry, engineering, and design. Held at the University of Canterbury, this competition showcases fresh thinking, sustainable solutions, and the next generation of industry leaders. With support from WIDE Trust, students turn ideas into impact, bridging education and real-world innovation in the wood sector.

The University of Auckland’s School of Architecture has received a grant from the WIDE Trust to install a new CNC router, giving students access to cutting-edge fabrication technology and strengthening the link between education and industry.

Groundbreaking research from the University of Auckland, supported by the WIDE Trust, is redefining earthquake-resilient construction in New Zealand. New timber technology enhances seismic performance, offering safer, more sustainable buildings. With continued industry support and innovation, mass timber is set to play a vital role in the future of construction.

New Zealand Forest Owners Association (NZFOA) environment manager Rachel Millar recently returned from an extensive study tour funded by the WIDE Trust. Her journey across Tasmania, Canada, the United States, and East Texas provided firsthand exposure to leading-edge practices and innovations in sustainable forest management.

Emily Herd is a prime example of how passion and hard work can shape a rewarding future in forestry. Through her studies, hands-on experiences, and leadership roles, Emily is building an impressive foundation for a career in the forestry industry.

The WIDE Trust is proud to invest in research that pushes the boundaries of sustainable construction in New Zealand. Over the last three years, the Trust has provided $400,000 in funding to support two groundbreaking research projects.

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.