Written by
13 August 2024
•
4 min read
Natural timber is regularly celebrated in New Zealand architecture. Whether it’s small dwellings, high-end residences, commercial precincts, educational buildings, public outdoor structures and more, timber is often used in a way that showcases its natural textures, patterns and colours.
“The timber industry is experiencing notable shifts due to evolving customer tastes and emerging demands. One significant trend is the increased demand for high-quality visual timber. Customers seek timber that offers both structural integrity and aesthetic appeal,” says David Williams, general manager at ATS Timber.
Operating since 1994, ATS Timber specialises in both structural and appearance-grade timbers.
“We are a wholesaler which saws and processed logs and rough-sawn timber into finished timber products to be used by various industries,” says Williams.
“Timber sawing involves sawing rough-sawn timber into timber lengths that carpenters, wood product manufacturers and building construction firms can use to manufacture structural timber products like trusses, frames and other goods. Timber dressing involves planing timber on all four sides to produce timber that is ready for further processing or final use.”
The latest product to join the ATS Timber repertoire is European Spruce. A visually appealing and structurally sound option that exceeds New Zealand standards, the timber has superior strength and stability with a superior visual grade ensuring a stunning finish for any project.
“European Spruce is harvested sustainably from Scandinavia’s icy climates. These trees mature over 70-100 years, ensuring timber with unmatched durability and performance. This achievement is a result of a collaboration with Grade Right (NZ), leading structural engineers and timber experts from New Zealand and Europe,” says Williams.
“New Zealand’s timber industry is on the brink of a transformation with the introduction of a new benchmark for exposed structural solid timbers. This innovative range surpasses New Zealand expectations, offering enhanced visual appeal, structural integrity and environmental sustainability.”
ATS Timber’s Weka SG8 product range was chosen by Abseil Access for the construction of the Specularite Gully Bridge in Central Otago, part of the Lake Dunstan Trail. This 86m suspension bridge is a centrepiece of the cycling trail linking Cromwell to Clyde. The bridge’s durability and performance in harsh environments highlight the quality of ATS Timber’s products.
Another notable project is the Kawatiri Coastal Trail in Westport. The Abseil Access design and engineering team selected ATS Timber’s Weka SG8 range for constructing a 50m suspension bridge over Martin’s Creek, ensuring a minimum design life of 25 years in the harsh coastal environment.
ATS Timber partners with over 300 approved resellers nationwide – allowing efficient distribution to access required materials promptly, whether for stock ranges or special orders, to keep projects on schedule.
“It’s important to ensure that the timber products you choose meet the necessary sustainability and quality standards,” says Williams.
“ATS Timber is committed to providing products that align with industry regulations and environmental guidelines, ensuring both performance and ecological responsibility.”
Expert advice for professionals considering ATS Timber
With complimentary samples of the new European Spruce range available, along with other ATS Timber products, get in touch with ATS Timber to learn more about their timber products for your next project.