Sustainable timber potential for Northland, New Zealand

Abstract

This paper explores the feasibility and potential use of locally grown timber alternatives to chemically treated Pinus radiata for domestic construction in the Northland region. Current and potential locally grown alternative timber resources are initially identified through direct contact with local forest managers, sawmill operators, and timber suppliers. This is followed by an investigation and description of the characteristics specific to each of the available timbers. Finally, the paper discusses the implications of using the timbers within domestic construction, and examines what methods are available for architects to use these timbers within the current framework of the New Zealand Building Code.