Statement from Yasufumi Tsuchiya, Director, Juken New Zealand (JNL)
The closure process for Northland Mill is now nearing completion, with support for affected employees continuing through the final stages of the transition. Redundancy payments are being made this week, with final pay, including all entitlements through to 21 August, to be paid next week.
Since announcing the decision to close the mill, 28 employees have secured ongoing employment with JNL through redeployment and retention opportunities. This includes 19 employees who have accepted roles at Triboard and a further nine who have been retained in roles with minor changes. A further six employees have agreed to remain temporarily to assist with site maintenance and closure activities, with three of those likely to be redeployed into ongoing positions.
A total of 44 employees are transitioning out of the business, including employees pursuing new employment, moving into personal commitments, or choosing to retire.
Employees continue to have access to a range of assistance, including support from the Ministry of Social Development, the Employee Assistance Programme, employment services and wellbeing support. JNL will also host a job fair in the coming weeks to help connect affected employees with potential employers.
We acknowledge the constructive engagement of employees and union representatives throughout this process. Collective agreement bargaining, which was paused during the consultation period, has now concluded and a new collective agreement has been finalised.
While manufacturing operations at Northland Mill have ended, JNL continues to explore opportunities for the future of the site, including the sale of the land and associated assets.
Separately, JNL continues to explore a potential sale of Triboard as a going concern. Discussions remain ongoing, however no buyer has been identified to date.
JNL remains committed to maintaining a sustainable forestry and manufacturing business in New Zealand.
ENDS
