The Road to Easter 2027
Chapter One: Forestry Through Ricky’s Eyes
The Early Days: Jack Kuru (Left) and Ricky Kuru (Right).
As we begin the countdown to Kuru's 30-Year Celebration at Easter 2027, it seems fitting to start where it all began. Forestry.
For more than three decades, forestry has provided jobs, opportunities and livelihoods for East Coast whānau. It has helped shape communities, supported local businesses and become part of the story of Te Tairāwhiti. Ricky Kuru has spent 30 years building a forestry business, now based in Ūawa-Tolaga Bay and, like many people across the Coast, has witnessed significant change throughout that time.
Thirty years ago, forestry looked very different to what it does today.
The machinery was different.
The roads were different.
The technology was different.
Safety expectations were different.
Environmental expectations were different.
What hasn't changed is the people.
The East Coast forestry industry has provided opportunities for generations of local workers. Thousands of people have worked in forests throughout the region, building roads, operating machinery, loading trucks, maintaining equipment and helping keep one of the region's most important industries moving.
Forestry has supported families, created careers and helped many young people gain skills, qualifications and experience that have stayed with them throughout their lives.
In a recent media article discussing the challenges facing forestry across the region, one comment stood out:
- "Forestry provided a new revenue stream for Tairāwhiti, and a way of life for many of its people."
That statement reflects more than economics.
It reflects the many relationships, careers, connections and opportunities that have developed through the industry over the years.
Like many sectors, forestry continues to evolve. Today there is a much stronger focus on environmental management, worker wellbeing, safety, training and long-term sustainability. Projects like Kuru's Large Woody Debris programme at Rukuata Forest are just one example of how expectations and priorities have changed over time, helping forestry operations meet modern environmental standards while protecting communities and waterways.
The industry continues to face challenges, but it also continues to play an important role in providing employment and supporting communities throughout the East Coast. Recent discussions throughout the region have highlighted just how closely connected forestry remains to local businesses, contractors, workers and whānau.
As Kuru works towards its 30-Year Celebration, we want to take the opportunity to reflect on the people and experiences that helped shape our business.
This is only the beginning. Over the next several months, we will share the stories of the crews, projects, personalities and milestones that have helped build Kuru into what it is today.
Because while machinery, technology and worksites may change, the story of Kuru has always been about people.
Coming Next Month - Chapter Two: The Crews That Build Kuru
We’re looking for:
Historic crew photos
Old machinery photos
Stories from former workers
Memorable projects
Funny moments and memories from the early years
Have a story to share? We'd love to hear it.