.The second working day of the SAWA delegation began with an early morning walk through the Redwoods Forest, the green symbol of Rotorua city.
Afterward, the delegation enjoyed morning coffee at Eastwood Cafe Café – SCION, where they were warmly welcomed by Mr. Andrea Stocchero (Ministry for Primary Industries, New Zealand – MPI NZ) Andrea Stocchero Mr.ì Jeremy Warnes, who guided them on a tour of Scion’s research and technology development facilities.
Here, members learned in depth about cutting-edge innovations in forestry and wood processing, including bioplastics, 3D printing using lignin, advanced wood treatment and drying technologies, as well as Scion’s research directions for future commercial applications.
In the afternoon, the delegation continued to Red Stag Wood Solutions Limited – one of New Zealand’s leading engineered wood manufacturers. They were introduced to the CLT (Cross Laminated Timber) production line, a technology that creates large timber panels by layering boards crosswise at 90 degrees and bonding them with specialized adhesives, resulting in a sustainable building material that can replace concrete and steel in mid- and high-rise construction.
In addition, Red Stag also produces GLT (Glue Laminated Timber) – multi-layered laminated timber used for columns, beams, lintels, and other main structural components. The company also provides prefabricated frame and truss solutions, helping optimize construction processes and shorten project timelines.
Following the visit, the delegation toured Claymark – Vaughan Road , one of New Zealand’s leading manufacturers and exporters of finished timber products.
The visit provided valuable insights into timber processing, treatment, and finishing technologies that meet high international quality standards. It also showcased the integrated value chain of New Zealand’s timber industry, from research and production to export.
The delegation then visited the sawmilling area of Sequal Lumber, one of New Zealand’s most advanced sawmills. The company specializes in producing custom-cut Radiata Pine lumber, helping manufacturers in the furniture, packaging, and engineered wood sectors optimize production efficiency and minimize material waste.
The day concluded with a welcome reception hosted by Mr. Neil Dodunski Vice Chairman, joined by representatives, the New Zealand Government, Scion, MPI, Red Stag, Sequal, and Claymark.
The warm evening at Eat Street provided a wonderful opportunity to strengthen relationships, exchange ideas, and explore new avenues of collaboration between the wood industries of Vietnam and New Zealand.
