WML recently had the privilege of hosting Platypus, one of our valued Australian customers, along with several of their clients from the packaging industry. Their visit provided a unique opportunity to showcase WML’s operations, engage in hands-on activities, and immerse themselves in New Zealand’s rich cultural and natural heritage.
Exploring the Roots of Our Industry
The visit commenced with an immersive tour of Kaingaroa Forest, hosted by Timberlands, where the group gained first-hand insight into sustainable forestry operations. Witnessing the harvesting process in action, they followed the journey of raw materials from forest to mill, deepening their understanding of WML’s commitment to responsible sourcing and production.
An Evening of Cultural Connection
That evening, the group experienced the warmth and tradition of Māori culture with an authentic Hāngī and cultural performance at Mitai in Rotorua. Through powerful storytelling, captivating performances, and a traditional feast, the evening offered a meaningful appreciation of New Zealand’s heritage.
A Hands-On Approach to Innovation
The following day, the group arrived at WML for an engaging session designed to blend education with interaction. The visit included:
- A comprehensive overview of the papermaking process
- A guided tour of the plant to observe production in action
- In-depth discussions on WML’s board products and applications
One of the key highlights was the interactive Cardboard Challenge, where participants were split into teams and tasked with designing a packaging solution tailored to specific client needs. Judged on board selection, functionality, and creativity, the challenge created a dynamic and competitive environment, reinforcing the practical applications of WML’s products in real-world scenarios.
Balancing Business with Adventure
To round off their visit, the group explored some of Rotorua’s world-renowned attractions. They enjoyed the adrenaline rush of the Skyline Luge and marvelled at the geothermal wonders of Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, ensuring the perfect balance between business, culture, and adventure.
Strengthening Partnerships, Building Connections
Hosting Platypus and their clients was a fantastic opportunity to strengthen relationships, share industry knowledge, and create lasting connections. Their visit was a testament to WML’s commitment to innovation, collaboration, and fostering global partnerships.
Here’s what Andrea Whinnett from Platypus had to say about the experience:
“We recently had the opportunity to tour the WML Paper Mill with 14 of our clients, and it was an incredibly informative experience that provided us with a thorough understanding of the entire paper production process, from the growth of the trees to the final product. The tour offered valuable insights into the forestry practices and the time required for Radiata Pine trees to mature. We learned how these trees, which typically take 25-30 years to reach maturity, are harvested for various purposes such as furniture, housing, and pulp production.
The most impressive part of the tour was watching the production line where the harvested timber is turned into pulp and then into paper. It was fascinating to see the detailed process involved, from the initial treatment of the pulp to the creation of paper sheets, and ultimately, the final step—rolling the paper onto large reels ready for delivery to clients.
This visit gave us a greater appreciation for the complexity and efficiency of the paper production industry, and how much effort goes into producing high-quality paper. It was a valuable learning experience for everyone involved and helped us better understand the broader environmental and logistical considerations in the industry.“
We look forward to welcoming them again in the future!