Juken New Zealand Closes Northland Mill Cutting 60 Jobs

The Japanese forestry company Juken New Zealand will close its Northland Mill in Kaitāia on August 21, 2026. The decision follows a consultation process with employees and union representatives after the company failed to identify a viable buyer or a financially sustainable operating model for the facility. The closure will result in the loss of approximately 60 jobs.

Director Yasufumi Tsuchiya stated that the company was unable to identify a viable pathway forward despite efforts to save the operation. While the Northland Mill is closing, Juken New Zealand remains open to selling the mill's land and assets. The company is also currently negotiating the potential sale of the neighboring Triboard Mill, which employs 140 people.

Workers First Union has criticized the New Zealand Coalition Government and Shane Jones for failing to intervene or facilitate a sale to prevent the redundancies. Union organizer Marcus Coverdale characterized the situation as a feeling of abandonment for the workers, claiming the government offered excuses rather than solutions. Juken New Zealand is currently discussing financial aid, wellbeing support, and redeployment opportunities with the affected staff.