Taumata Plantations

New Zealand’s forestry sector includes major international investors, with Canadian multinational **Interfor** among the largest owners. The list highlights the scale of foreign involvement in the country’s timber industry, though specific rankings or ownership stakes are not detailed. The sector operates with a relatively low public profile despite significant foreign capital.

Jan 2025NZ HeraldNews article

New Zealand’s Radio New Zealand (RNZ) publishes a list of the country’s largest private landowners. The ranking highlights individuals and entities holding the most extensive private landholdings, with some owning over 100,000 hectares. The data reflects land ownership trends amid ongoing debates over agricultural and conservation policies.

Oct 2019RNZNews article

New Zealand’s four largest private landowners are foreign-owned forestry companies, despite government restrictions on overseas investment. The Overseas Investment Office (OIO) has approved over **$2.3 billion** in forestry-related land sales since the current government took office, with roughly half sold under a simplified ‘special forestry test’ process.

Oct 2019TimberbizNews article

Foreign forestry companies now own more land in New Zealand than any domestic entities, driven by global demand for timber and carbon credits. Firms like China’s **SF Holding** and **Hebei Spirit** control vast plantations, often acquiring land at low prices during economic downturns. The shift raises concerns over foreign influence on New Zealand’s agricultural and environmental policies, as these companies prioritize large-scale tree farming over traditional farming practices.

Oct 2019RNZNews article