Thriving environments & resilient
communities
2026
Friday 31st July
Trafalgar Centre, Nelson
Representing forestry & the wood processing interests in Te Tau Ihu, the Top of the South Island.
The Top of the South Wood Council (TOTSWC) is an incorporated society that acts as a voice for the forest and wood processing industries in Te Tau Ihu, the top of the South Island. We are the oldest and largest forest industry representative group in the county with a diverse membership; representing the collective interests of forest growers, sawmillers, contractor service suppliers, wood processing and forestry related businesses in Marlborough, Nelson and Tasman.
Our forests, our future
Top of the South Wood Council is the “voice of forestry” in the top of the South Island and is the main contact for media enquiries, and media articles relating to the sector.
TONNES OF CARBON
SEQUESTERED
calculated estimate of carbon sequestered in the Top of the South region to date
Our Kaupapa is to advance the opportunities OF the forest & wood processing industries in Te Tau Ihu, The Top of the South Island, by ensuring our industry is vibrant & respected; regionally, nationally & globally.
NEWS / EVENTS
Hall of Fame 2026 – Rex kelly
Rex Kelly has dedicated decades to advancing New Zealand’s forestry industry through innovation, leadership and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Renowned for his exceptional work ethic and leading from the front, he earned a reputation as the person to call for the industry’s most challenging cable logging operations. A true innovator, Rex played a key…
Hall of Fame 2026 – Tom Broderick
Tom Broderick has dedicated more than 50 years to strengthening the forestry industry in the Top of the South through exceptional leadership, technical expertise, and an unwavering commitment to people. From his early years with H. Baigent & Sons through to senior management roles and the establishment of Forest Management Resources, Tom has played a…
TOTSWC Newsletter – Issue #6 – December 2025
TOTSWC Newsletter December 2025 #6 The 2025 year has brought some significant challenges to the TOTS forest industry with mid-year floods across the region followed by a significant windthrow event in the Tasman district. This coupled with closure of the CHH sawmill in the region and declining log export prices, has certainly made it a…
Winner of the 2025 Port Marlborough – Marlborough Environment Awards
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EDUCATION & CAREERS
There are hundreds of opportunities when it comes to careers in the forestry or wood processing sectors. We are proud to be associated with many education providers setting the foundations for these careers, as well as key industry players.
ENVIRONMENT
Not only do forests help us to mitigate the impacts of climate change; they also provide many environmental benefits throughout their lifetime. These include: supporting healthy ecosystems, soil stabilisation and providing important habitats for many species.
RECREATION
Forests not only create a calm place of solace for our beloved native species, they’re also a fantastic playground for our communities; mountain biking, hiking and forest bathing to name a few. Check out some of the amazing recreational opportunities in the forest of Te Tau Ihu.
For Members
TOTSWC plays an important role in supporting the forestry industry, along with both industry members and workers. If you are interested in becoming a member or finding out more about membership benefits, check out our membership page.