Rayonier Matariki Forests Award
Photo by Felicity Brough

Rayonier Matariki Forests wins outdoor access champion award for support of Pauanui Tairua Trail

The forestry company received the award in a ceremony in Pauanui on 2 May, following their nomination by Hikuai District Trust, which has been building the Pauanui Tairua Trail. 

The Walking Access Commission Ara Hīkoi Aotearoa presents Outdoor Access Champion Awards each year to people and organisations who have made significant and lasting contributions to public access to the outdoors in New Zealand. 

"Rayonier Matariki Forests has been really supportive of the Pauanui Tairua Trail, which passes alongside a section of forest it manages," says Asher Wilson-Goldman, Walking Access Commission Strategic Communications and Partnerships Manager. 

“This is a great example of a business working hand-in-hand with the community it operates in to produce a fantastic outcome for all.” 

The Hikuai District Trust has received financial and physical support from Rayonier Matariki Forests for half a decade. Rayonier Matariki Forests has adopted the trail as its environmental flagship project. 

Andy Warren, Regional Manager for Rayonier Matariki Forests, Bay of Plenty, said lending support to community projects such as the Pauanui Tairua Trail is very important to the company. 

"We are delighted to be an ongoing part of this great initiative which is a real asset to the community and a wonderful drawcard for visitors. Forestry has a long history in the area and with views of our Tairua Forest all around the walkway, it was important that we be a part of this ambitious project." 

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View photos of the award presentation