Murray’s winter musings 2026

The world outside we live in has not really changed in the last 12 months for MacDirect,

But there are still challenges out there as the NZ building scene stutters along.

Here at MacDirect though we are feeling very positive. After a year of upgrades and new development in our production line we are seeing the benefits this year in being able to hold cost increases to a minimum, as well as increasing accuracy and recovery. This is bolstered by our team of experience sawmillers committed to improving what we do every day.

Another major advantage for us this year is an ongoing arrangement we have secured for a reliable supply of top-quality logs. Making our supply more consistent and easier to manage. This reduces pressure on our team and ensures our customers will continue to receive the quality cypress timbers needed for their projects.

With the new development enabling us to double production to meet demand, MacDirect is ready to grow the supply of "mac" into the marketplace.

Customers in general are recognizing the superior quality timber that can now be supplied by purpose grown plantation cypress trees. (lusitanica/macrocarpa)

MacDirect cladding both clears and tight knot weatherboard are increasingly specified by architects and/or home and commercial builders.  The tight knot is mostly supplied for its natural aesthetic look. We are seeing increasing demand especially in our high-grade cladding, where we compete with other imported products.

Locally Grown and Graded Mac

Our timber is visually graded by our trained graders before dispatch, It should be remembered that under the NZ building code it is recognized that there will be some mistakes made in large production lines. The code specifies visually graded timber can be up to 5% out of grade especially regarding knot size as this is totally a subjective judgment call by our men. The building code therefore requires that the builder has the final responsibility to make sure any timber erected meets code.

MacDirect will replace any boards that are shown to be faulty before being erected.  If the builder/owner has any doubts please phone and ideally take a photo send to sales@macdirect.co.nz  and Scott and the team will work it out for you so that all your timber meets code standards.

Keep an eye on our specials page for sometimes we have downgraded weather/board and sarking that is ideal for that Man Shed / garage etc.

Wishing you well. Spring is approaching and those long lazy days of summer will be here soon after.

Murray Grant