Investing in Forestry’s Future: Toi Ohomai Students Reflect on NZIF Emerging Stronger Conference
In June 2025, five Level 6 Forestry Management students from Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology were given the opportunity to attend the New Zealand Institute of Forestry (NZIF) Conference in Napier, thanks to the generous sponsorship of the WIDE Trust.
Held under the theme Emerging Stronger, the conference brought together a wide range of forestry professionals, iwi, government leaders, researchers, and students from across Aotearoa. Over three impactful days, attendees engaged with the challenges and opportunities facing the sector, from climate recovery and sustainable forest management to emerging technology and community resilience.
For the Toi Ohomai students, Gabrielle Crawford, Keith Patangan, Jack O'Dowd, Santanna Rapana, and Filipe Bavai Domonibitu, the event proved transformative. The WIDE Trust covered the full cost of their travel and accommodation, enabling them to participate fully in this high-value learning and networking experience.
“Without the support of WIDE Trust, this incredible opportunity may not have been possible for us,” said Gabrielle Crawford. “We are truly grateful.”
A Conference that Bridged Theory and Industry
The students immersed themselves in a variety of keynote sessions, technical workshops, and panel discussions. Key themes included the ongoing impacts of Cyclone Gabrielle, new technologies in forest monitoring, and the balance between native afforestation and commercial needs.
Sessions on slope restoration, erosion control, and biodiversity enhancement sparked new conversations about the future of forestry in Aotearoa. The students noted how the conference highlighted the importance of collaboration, across sectors, communities, and generations, in building a resilient and future-ready industry.
“Hearing from leaders like Riki Kuru and Kelvin Meredith really opened my eyes to new possibilities for managing our own whānau land,” shared Santanna Rapana.
Standing Tall in the Student Poster Competition
A highlight for the Toi Ohomai cohort was the student poster competition. Each student presented an A1 poster showcasing their research, spanning digital modelling, silviculture productivity, forestry valuation, and the integration of traditional and digital data collection methods.
Notable entries included Gabrielle Crawford’s catchment flow modelling project focused on flood resilience in Ruatōria and Jack O’Dowd’s comparison of pruned vs. framing regimes using LOGGIC software, which revealed a clear economic advantage for pruned systems.
The poster sessions served not only as academic presentations but also as rich networking opportunities, with students receiving feedback and encouragement from seasoned professionals. Many formed connections that may help launch their future careers.
“Presenting my research helped me build confidence and understand where I fit into the industry,” said Keith Patangan. “It was a turning point.”
Honouring Excellence
The conference concluded with a formal awards evening where Toi Ohomai students Jack O’Dowd and Filipe Domonibitu were honoured with the prestigious Mary Sutherland Scholarship, a testament to their academic promise and contribution to forestry’s future.
“Being recognised alongside industry leaders was an incredibly proud moment,” said Filipe. “The support of WIDE Trust made that possible.”
The Power of Opportunity
This experience wasn’t just about attending a conference, it was a gateway into the professional forestry world. From engaging with senior professionals to gaining visibility and industry insight, each student walked away with deeper knowledge, stronger networks, and a clearer vision for their role in shaping forestry in Aotearoa.
The WIDE Trust’s investment in the next generation is already bearing fruit.
“We came away inspired, motivated, and more connected than ever,” said the group in their final remarks. “Thank you to the WIDE Trust for believing in us and in the future of New Zealand forestry.”
The WIDE Trust is proud to support the next generation of forestry professionals through opportunities like the NZIF Conference. These experiences create real-world impact, building skills, growing networks, and inspiring future leaders.
If you're passionate about supporting education, innovation, and the future of Aotearoa’s forestry sector, learn more about how the WIDE Trust is making a difference, and how you can be part of it.