Not every slab of tree fern is created equal. The use of tree fern has caused some controversy in the past as in some parts of the world, forests are threatened by over-harvesting. Several tree fern species native to the tropical Americas are now protected as it’s been exploited in the past. Sustainability is important to us, and we have developed a process that’s environmentally responsible and fully government approved.

The impact of harvesting of New Zealand tree fern on the environment is minimal. The trees are all part of second growth regeneration, as a result from the deforestation that came to this country with the settlers. In our work, no bulldozers are used. We go in on foot, cut the logs, and a helicopter comes in to lift them out. The forest floor is left as pristine as it was found.

There’s an abundance of ferns on private land in the central North Island of New Zealand, and Fernwood NZ has been exporting their quality products to Asia, Europe and the UK for many years. Recently, they have introduced the benefits of their ethically sourced products to growers and hobbyists around the world.