NZ loggers name oilman as joint marketer

By PAM GRAHAM

An oilman has been given the task of leading an attempt to stop "New Zealand competing against New Zealand" in international log markets.

Carter Holt Harvey and Central North Island Forest Partnership receiver Michael Stiassny named John Palmer - an executive with a unit of Burmah Castrol for the past 15 years - as chief executive of Export Co, the firm they are forming to take over marketing of their export logs.

Palmer has marketing experience in Asia and Europe and his appointment will reinforce Export Co's claim to independence.

The setting up of Export Co and a separate management company for the central North Island forests, both by mid-year, is seen as reducing the influence of Fletcher Challenge Forests in the central North Island, though it was invited to join Export Co and is still free to do so.

Cutting rights to the central North Island forests remain for sale and the land is subject to Waitangi Tribunal claims.

Export Co aims to improve the marketing of logs and save money on their transport. Once the business is established it will try to sign up other members.