'It's a shock': Kaitāia's Northland Mill closes down two weeks early
The Northland Mill in Kaitāia has closed two weeks ahead of schedule, resulting in the loss of 60 jobs. While some workers have secured positions at a neighboring mill, the future of the site remains uncertain as a buyer has not yet been found.
Why it matters
The closure underscores the economic instability facing regional manufacturing hubs and the impact on local workforces.
It's a shock and a disappointment that Kaitāia's Northland Mill will close down today - two weeks ahead of schedule, a union organiser says.
Marcus Coverdale, of Workers First Union, said he only found out about the decision late on Wednesday.
About 60 people had been employed at the mill , which produced wood veneer and was owned by Juken NZ.
The company still owned the neighbouring Triboard Mill, with 140 jobs, but the future of that plant was also uncertain.
Earlier this year, the company said it wanted to exit Kaitāia and put both mills on the market.
Coverdale said a skeleton crew had committed to keeping the Northland Mill operating until 21 August.
"So obviously it's a shock, but the workers themselves are a bit relieved that they don't have to carry on sweeping the floor and opening and closing the gates for the last times," he said.
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