Shaping the Future of Timber Innovation: The 2026 Innovative Wood Product Competition

The future of New Zealand's forestry and wood processing industries depends on the next generation of innovators, problem-solvers and industry leaders. That future was on display at the 2026 Innovative Wood Product Competition, where students from the University of Canterbury's School of Forestry were challenged to think differently about the possibilities of wood. 

Supported by the WIDE Trust, the competition gives students the opportunity to apply their knowledge in a practical setting, combining science, engineering, design and manufacturing to create innovative wood-based products. The event encourages students to push the boundaries of traditional timber applications while developing skills that will benefit both their careers and the wider industry. 

A key strength of the Innovative Wood Product Competition is the strong involvement of industry leaders who bring real-world expertise and insights to the judging process. This year's judging panel included Andrew Foster (Sales Engineer, Henkel New Zealand Ltd), Emma O'Neill (Technical Director, PTL | Structural & Fire), John McVicar (Managing Director, McVicar), Lisa Oliver (Sustainability Lead / Project Lead at Holmes NZ LP and President of the NZ Timber Design Society), Mark Ross (Chief Executive, Wood Processors & Manufacturers Association), Paul Adams (Research and Development Director and CEO, Forest Growers Research Ltd.), and Sue Ross (Supply Chain Manager, OneFortyOne). 

The competition also welcomed industry representatives David Goulden (Frame & Truss Manufacturers Association), Ryan Bosselmann (Beca), Garrick du Toit (Beca), Jeremiah Shaw (Beca), and Andy Buchanan (PTL | Structural & Fire), providing students with valuable opportunities to engage directly with professionals from across New Zealand's forestry, timber and construction sectors. 

Turning Knowledge into Innovation 

Throughout the competition, students work in teams to design, develop and manufacture timber-based solutions using the knowledge they have gained through their studies. The challenge requires participants to move beyond theory and engage with real-world considerations such as material performance, product design, sustainability and commercial viability.

By bringing these elements together, the competition provides an authentic learning experience that mirrors the challenges and opportunities found throughout New Zealand's wood processing sector. 

Developing Industry-Ready Graduates 

One of the greatest strengths of the Innovative Wood Product Competition is its ability to connect education with industry needs. Participants gain valuable experience working with timber as a high-value material while developing practical skills in teamwork, communication, project management and problem-solving. 

As New Zealand continues to seek greater value from its forest resources, the industry requires graduates who understand not only forestry and wood science, but also innovation, sustainability and product development. The competition helps students build confidence in their ability to contribute to the future of the sector. 

Supporting a Sustainable Future 

Wood is increasingly recognised as one of the most important renewable resources available to support a lower-carbon future. From engineered timber products and sustainable construction materials to bio-based innovations, opportunities for wood-based innovation continue to grow. 

The competition encourages students to explore these opportunities by considering how timber can be used more effectively, more sustainably and in new ways. This focus aligns strongly with the WIDE Trust's commitment to supporting initiatives that advance New Zealand's forestry and wood industries. 

Celebrating Student Achievement 

The high standard of entries demonstrated the creativity, technical capability and innovative thinking emerging from the next generation of forestry and wood processing professionals. 

The Best Performance Award and accompanied by a $1,000 prize, was awarded to Liam Hughes, Manan Patel, Harris Allan and Whanarua Edmonds for their outstanding overall performance throughout the competition. 

The Innovation and Environmental Sustainability Award, recognising solutions that demonstrated exceptional creativity and sustainability outcomes, was awarded to Charlotte Talbot, Kassidy Callaghan, Alice Keeling and Te'a Kemp. The winning team received a $500 prize in recognition of their achievement.

Investing in the Next Generation 

The WIDE Trust is proud to support initiatives that inspire students to think creatively, challenge conventional ideas and develop the skills needed to become future leaders within the forestry and wood sectors. Through competitions, scholarships, research funding and educational programmes, the Trust continues to invest in building a stronger, more innovative and sustainable industry for New Zealand. 

The ideas showcased throughout the 2026 Innovative Wood Product Competition demonstrate the talent, enthusiasm and capability emerging from our tertiary institutions. As these students progress into industry, they will play an important role in shaping the future of wood processing, product innovation and sustainable resource use. 

The future of New Zealand's wood industry is being built today, and the WIDE Trust is proud to help support the people who will lead it tomorrow.