We were approached by Farman Turkington Forestry Ltd to amend or develop standards related to Machine Assist Felling (MAF).

We agree that updates for industry training, assessment and guidance material are a critical need for the industry and will work with Farman Turkington Forestry Ltd to review the skills needed to safely carry out Machine Assist Felling.

The MAF project will focus on the development of Level 4 standards and possibly micro-credentials.

We will partner with a wide range of key partners including PSG, FICA, Ngā Pou ā Tāne, MPI and the Food and Fibre Centre of Vocational Excellence, to share knowledge, resources, and connections to strengthen our understanding of the training gaps and needs for people in forestry. 

With our industry partners, we will scrutinise career pathways and develop suitable education components that enable Tree Fellers and Machine Operators to safely participate in Machine Assist Felling.

Through this project, we’ll work to create meaningful pathways for ākonga that maximise flexibility and transferability while also recognising necessary specialisms.

We will create impactful and practical learning products and diversify pathways for people who wish to embark on a career within one or more primary sectors, growing the numbers and diversity of people, both entering core primary industry roles and transferring their skills from other industries.

Key Steps:

  • November 2024 – March 2025 – Technical Advisory Group meetings
  • November 2024 – January 2025 – Development of first draft of skill standards for MAF
  • February – March 2025 – Public consultation of draft of skill standards
  • March – April 2025 – Submission of skill standards to NZQA

Latest Progress:

  • Establishment of a Technical Advisory Group (TAG), composed of industry experts on Machine Assist Felling
  • Regular meetings with the TAG with the aim of identifying the skills required to safely perform machine assist felling
  • First draft of five skill standards ready for subject matter consultation: Have your say on new standards for Machine Assist Felling