MacDirect

In 1993, Murray Grant, in partnership, imported a horizontal Bandmill with the objective of suppyling wholesale R/S green pine to the finger jointing and other markets in Whangarei.  Shortly after starting operation these markets crashed forcing them to look elsewhere.

He processed and marketed some macrocarpa logs from a local forest and saw the potential for developing a reputation as supplying well graded and cut macrocarpa - it worked, and they never cut pine again. Changing the company name to MacDirect Ltd, the mills output increased dramatically every year to eventually became the main wholesaler of Macrocarpa into Auckland.

​In 1999 Murray became the sole owner of MacDirect, and he determined to continue to take advantage of the growing awareness of the special benefits and sustainability of Macrocarpa/Cypress timbers.

In 2003 with the business out-growing its site and production ability, a decision was made to purchase an existing macrocarpa mill (P&D Sawmill) in Franklin, South Auckland at Patumahoe. This allowed MacDirect Ltd to grow the customer base, source trees from Central North Island Plantations, and move into finishing/dressing timber themselves.

​Although there have been many difficulties to face, e.g: Building Code turmoil, consistent log procurement, and now the building recession, MacDirect has continued to grow every year. Today they are well placed to meet the increasing demand for high quality macrocarpa/cypress.

With a good reputation in the forestry industry MacDirect have a plentiful supply of quality plantation logs.  We consistently strive for improvement in quality control, installing a modern Wenig Foursider/Moulder in 2008 and a Horizontal Bandmill Resaw in 2010.

​The mainstay of a small sawmill is the team who work there. Most of the team have worked several years at MacDirect and have become experts in the specialist cutting and grading needed in a macrocarpa/cypress sawmill. Today MacDirect has a kitset manufacturing division, 3 bandsaws and a Foursider.

​MacDirect strongly believe macrocarpa/cypress has the potential to be a major player in the NZ Building industry with the added potential of a large known market for cypress in Asia. We aim to be in a position to meet this demand while always being determined to satisfy each and every customers needs locally.

With more than 25 years experience, we have built a reputation of knowledge and quality. We always get asked about the best way to use our mac, how durable it is and whether it shrinks, among other curly questions. Here's where you will find a few of those answers. If this page doesn't satisfy, we are always on the end of the phone ready for the next challenge.

History of Mac

Macrocarpa came into New Zealand in the 1860s being popular as a shelterbelt. Although some plantations were planted in early 1900 Lusitanica (Mexican Cypress) came in at a later date. Macrocarpa has been used in house building around NZ since the early 1900s. ​ ​

Cypress timbers have been used for centuries in the building trade. St Peters' gates in Vatican City were built with 'old world' cypress and are still there today, 1000 years later. ​  

Foresters have always recognised the heritage of cypress as a premium timber and many discerning home builders have used Macrocarpa for the last 100 years in NZ. ​  

MacDirect recognised that much Macrocarpa supplied to the market was of inferior grade and quality, so in the early 1990's we became determined to supply the trade with a consistent, reliable and high quality supply of Mac. Today we only select and purchase high grade plantation logs. ​  

Now Macrocarpa/cypress is recognised as having a growing and important part in New Zealand's building industry and we look forward to continuing to supply the building industry and owners who want a locally produced and stunning alternative.

What is Macdirect Mac

Macrocarpa / Lusitanica / Lawson / Leyland  

Today "Macrocarpa" has become the trade name for below species and their crosses in NZ. So when we say "Macrocarpa" or "MacDirect Mac" this can include the Cupressus listed below.     

• Cupressus macrocarpa. - common name Macrocarpa or Mac  
• Cupressus lusitanica. - common name Lusitanica ​  

These are known as true cypress and are the trees from which most NZ cypress timbers come from. ​ Macrocarpa is a native of coastal southern California where it is known as Monterey Cypress, while Lusitanica or Mexican Cypress (White Cedar), comes from Mexico and further south.  

While Lusitanica is lighter in colour than Macrocarpa when first processed, in a short while it is hard to distinguish between the two. Lusitanica because of its higher resistance to bush canker and better sawmilling qualities is the main plantation grown cypress, particularly in the North Island.   

Other Types of Cypress we supply from time to time: ​  

• Cupressocyparis leylandi. Common name Leyland Cypress A cross between Cupressus macrocarpa and Chamaecyparis nootkatensis (Alaskan Cedar) belonging to the Cupreaceae family. ​  
• Chamecyparis lawsoniana. Common name Lawson Cypress A native of Oregan where it is known as Port Orford Cedar, also Oregan Cedar. Known for its strength in particular, Lawson is a valued timber resource in the United States. New Zealand grown Lawson does have quite a large sap ring compared to Macrocarpa.

Grades and Uses

At MacDirect we grade our timber into the following grades: ​  

1. Tight Knot #1 - This is used for all building applications. May include sapwood. Used primarily for internal applications. Due to the low amount of sapwood in Mac, this is also suitable for external applications. Not code compliant for external applications. ​  

2. Tight Knot #1 Heart - This is graded to meet the New Zealand building code for Class 3 durability for cladding and external applications like decking and fascia and also #1 framing and #1 structural. MacDirect grade this timber to meet code and we also provide (on request) a producers statement. ​  

3. Panel Grade #1 - This is designed solely for internal use including cover soffits, sarking, wall panelling etc. This timber meets code compliance for internal applications. Includes some bark encased knots and some feature knots. ​  

4. Clears - This is our furniture and finishing grade timber. We also can grade clears for Heart for external use. Clears means no Knots ​  

5. Timber By-Products - MacDirect also offer off grade timber (#2 and #3) that is ideal for landscaping, fencing. Please enquire. Not always available.

Durability and Hardness ​

Where Macrocarpa has been recorded as lasting many years even in in-ground situations. It must be recognized that like all naturally durable timbers there is large variability in durability. Under Ensis field trials 50 x 50 stakes were shown to deteriorate after 10-15 years in the ground. Larger sections such as fence posts will last longer.

Therefore this gives heart macrocarpa/Cypress a durability rating similar to H3.1 treated radiata pine according to the NZ building code. Macrocarpa/Cypress has been shown to be very durable where used for internal structures, and weatherboard/fascias externally. Where used externally structurally, Macrocarpa/Cypress should be able to be easily examined and replaced if necessary (Building Code 15 year life).

MacDirect sells considerable amounts of decking from heart grade. This is one of the areas where there is considerable variation in exposure stress. It can be expected that some boards could have to be replaced within 8-10 years although we have had very positive feedback regarding the durability of decking sold. We recommend that ‘grooves’ are placed down to facilitate drying between joist and deck. In the past some have used Macrocarpa deck joists; this is not recommended and is not allowed under the building code. MacDirect sells many pergolas both kitset and cut to order, for private homes and public park areas. Some of these are in-ground posts and are at owners discretion.

​For more information on strength read this PDF of testing of Lusitanica. Produced by NZ Farm Forrestors.

Does it shrink? ​

All timber shrinks in the drying process, but our mac is very stable. In fact, the science suggests it performs much better than Pine, Kauri, Rimu and even some cedars.     

On average from Green to 12%, our mac will shrink 1.1mm Radial and 2.6mm Tangential. Our own test reveals that overall from Green to 12% is around 2-3mm. ​  

We supply dry timber at about 16%. When placed in highly exposed areas timber can dry to 6-8%, which means you could see additional shrinkage of 1-2mm. ​  

To minimise this, we always recommend that the timber is acclimatised. As a natural product, it will dry and absorb moisture based on weather conditions. So sit it in the area that it will eventually end up and do your best to replicate the conditions. Oiling the timber is helps slow the drying process.

More reasons why

• Macrocarpa is classified as a Cypress in the building code and is used extensively for exterior cladding/weatherboard. Macrocarpa has a proven natural durability without any chemical treatment. MacDirect can provide a producer statement with exterior cladding stating it is produced from heart material.
• Classed as moderately durable, Macrocarpa has a natural resistance to fungus, rot, and insect attack therefore needs NO chemical protection when used according to NZ Building Code.
• Has very good and consistent engineering qualities with strength rating higher than SG8. Therefore used extensively for solid wood beams, posts and framing as #1 Framing in the Building Code.
• A light honey brown in colour that has lustre when dressed. Sought after for decorative appeal in building, for exposed beams, panelling/sarking, fascia/cladding, joinery or pergolas.
• Easily worked. Used extensively in the joinery, furniture, and boatbuilding trades.
• A very pleasantly scented wood.
• Macrocarpa can be left to 'season off' to a distinctive silver/grey or readily accepts being painted, oiled or stained.
• Macrocarpa is a softwood notable for having minimal sapwood.

Here is where you'll find advice and ideas on everything from weather exposure, oiling and what's in a log. This info is based on years of experience working with cypress timbers.

What's in a log

Macrocarpa and Cypress timbers are well known for their natural durability. Naturally, under the building code, our Heart Mac is durable to H3.1 (equivalent to treated radiata pine). This means it can be used for above ground, external applications like cladding and fascia. ​  

The logs them selves have very little sapwood in them. Sapwood is the outer layer of new wood that forms just under the bark. In mac the sapwood ring is very small and this means that most of the log can be used for heartwood applications. Mac Sapwood is also resistant to borer in a natural state and is widely used in areas where this is a serious problem. ​  

Heartwood is defined as ''the inner layers of the wood, which, in the grow­ing tree, have ceased to contain living cells, and in which the reserve materials (e.g., starch) have been removed or converted into heartwood substance" (IAWA 1964, p. 32). In some species, heartwood may be distinguished from sapwood by a darker colour, lower per­meability, and increased decay resistance.

Oiling, Tinting, Painting

There are many options for protecting your timber, however we recommend oiling the timber, regardless of its application. Why? When the timber is sawn and put into exposed conditions, if the timber dries too quickly it may check/crack. While this occurs in the natural drying process, we want to prevent it opening up too much. ​ ​ ​ ​  

Oiling the timber is like conditioning or moisturising your face in the morning. It keeps the timber from drying too quickly and helps bring out the grain in the timber. It also protects and repels water. ​  

Painting our timber is perfectly ok, but beware of dark colours. Ensure that dark colours don't absorb too much heat from sunlight as this can cause the timber to dry rapidly. ​  

Tinting. Also part of this protection of the timber you can choose from a wide variety of colours and tints. We stock the following products and are able to pre-oil these products to save you time.

Checking and Shake ​ 

Checking and shake are terms used to describe the natural cracking that occurs in the timber. While we work hard to prevent checking and remove shake, it's important to understand that they are simply part of the nature of the timber product. ​  

Shakes are natural occurring defects in standing trees caused by a lengthwise separation of latewood fibers. Shakes were once thought to be caused by external stress factors such as wind and temperature extremes (often called wind shakes); however, research has found that a bacterium is the true cause of shake. (Reference) ​  

Checks occur due to the top layers of the timber drying to rapidly. A MacDirect we take care to ensure we dry our timber over a minimum of 4 weeks, both air drying (out of direct sunlight) and kiln drying.   

While we can't 100% prevent checking we aim to minimise it. See the oil section to see how to best protect from checking.

A Few Tips 

• Dry Timber: We supply dry timber at 16%. So it's important to allow your timber to acclimatise in the space that it will be installed. Otherwise, you could see additional shrinkage of up to 2mm. Timber will absorb moisture as well so always acclimatise it.   
• Natural timber is a lot of nuances. It is a natural product and was growing just a short time before you received it. There are many factors to consider when using timber that can differ from tree to tree. So if you are unsure about what to use and how to use it, call us. We will be able to ensure you get what you expect.

Pure wood is an initiative of MacDirect Limited. For the past 25 years we have been working with local farmers and plantation owners to not only encourage them to grow sustainably, but also supply the local market. The Pure Wood initiative is to help create and foster solid working relationships between farmers, producers and customers.

​We also work along side NZ Farm Foresters to help shape the conversation around supply to the local market. If you would like to register your Mac/Cypress plantations, please contact us on the form below.

Informed Farmers 

Over the years we have grown our understanding of the value in the partnership between the farmers and plantation owners we work with. Our aim is to provide farmers with the following: ​  

1. Expert advice on the market for our product.

2. Support and advice for growing and harvesting as related to our market.  

3. A fair price for New Zealand grown trees by the log weight, not the log volume.  

4. A commitment to working together long term to ensure supply to the local market and also a commitment to sustainable practices.

If you are a farm forester or have a plantation and would like to work with us, fill in the contact form below.

Producer Commitment

MacDirect Sawmills has been milling Cypress/Macrocarpa for more than 25 years. We know what is required to help our farmers grow the best logs for producing high quality timber products. We also have a network of customers that are looking for our Mac Products. Our Promise to our supply partners is to: ​  

1. Ensure we give the right advice  

2. Ensure we provide a competitive price  

3. Pay per ton.  

4. Commitment to providing a strong working relationship with farmers and customers

Customers

Over the past 25 years, we have grown a solid network of supply partners solely in the New Zealand market. We believe in a sustainable, natural future for our building industry and we are leaders in this area. Our customers value this and they also know quality. Our commitment to customers is supplying timber that reflects best practice for quality, while maintaining the heart of natural timber products.

Over the past 25 years MacDirect has been working at the forefront on the conversation about Mac/Cypress in the building code and while there have been some challenges, today Mac/Cypress is highly regarded as a high grade timber product.

Here's what you need to know

MacDirect Mac/Cypress is naturally durable and is equivalent to H3.1 treated radiata pine. This is one of the reasons that MacDirect Mac/Cypress is popular for weatherboards and external coverings. In a natural state our timber meets NZ building code for framing, cladding and external applications. Please refer to the building code NZS 3602:2003.

MacDirect Mac structural and framing timber qualifies as VSG6 for engineering purposes. It must be noted that where timber is visually graded a reasonable difference of opinion between grades is recognised. A maximum allowable inclusion of “off grade” (5%) in any parcel is recognised as an acceptable allowable variation. Our weatherboard and external timber products are supplied in “heart” grade timber. Please refer to the building code NZS 3602:2003.

For more information please refer to the building code or contact us to chat about your specific needs.

Natural Timber

When you purchase any product from Urbanmac, you are buying a natural timber product. It's important to understand that while we attempt to make you products as perfect as possible, it will never be like manufactured wood, glass or plastic. Part of the character of our timber are in some of the imperfections that come from the logs. How long will my macrocarpa beds last for? Under testing macrocarpa has a similar durability to H3.1 treated pine, in its natural form. It is extremely durable and strong. Untreated macrocarpa, in contact with soil should last between 4-8 years but this can vary due to the nature of environmental factors out of our control. Some our customers boxes have lasted 10 years or so on the soil, however we have had reports of others lasting 3-4 years. If you want to increase the lifespan of your boxes even further, we recommend staining with a woodoil which absorbs deep into the timber, rather than coating it (preventing the oil from soaking into the dirt). We supply this oil, so email us if you wish to add this to your purchase.

Do I need a base on my garden bed?

No, when placed on the lawn the bed does not need a base. The water will drain through the bed to the soil below. We recommend lining it with a few sheets of newspaper on the ground first - don't use any nasty plastic stuff!

How long will my macrocarpa furniture last for?

Left untreated and out in the elements, macrocarpa will last 20-50 years! This varies depending on the climate and elements and we cannot guarantee exactly how long it will last but we would suggest a good 15-20 years (above ground) would be realistic- probably more. Treated with an oil based coating it will last even longer and we recommend using woodoil which we can supply.  

If I don’t oil or treat my table will the colour fade?

Yes. Our tables are sold mostly untreated as most people like the natural look. The timber will fade into a soft honey blonde colour and then to a silver grey.

Can I use a natural stain on my macrocarpa table?

Yes, for a natural stain you can use any cooking oil and rub it on. You can contact us regarding stains that we think are pretty cool (we love Dryden, and Woca Denmark and can supply and/or apply).

Does macrocarpa crack?

Yes, all timber cracks and splits, this is normal and a natural part of weathering. Even houses made of timber crack and it has no impact on the structural strength of the timber. In fact weatherboard houses last over 100 years. You can reduce cracking and splitting by using woodoil.

What if my macrocarpa garden box has knots in it?

It's likely that it will, that's the beauty of natural timber products they aren't perfectly formed and have character. We cannot provide you with any knot free products and this will not affect the quality, strength or life of your product.

How do I order a garden bed or table? 

Purchase straight off our website under the Shop Now category, or for custom orders email us with your request. We will reply within the day, and will send you an invoice with our bank account number. Once payment is made we will process your order and have your items delivered within 5-7 working days!

What if I am not happy with my purchase?

We don't do refunds for changing minds due to the cost of producing products and delivery. If you are seriously unhappy with your product because it is not up to the standard you expected (this is very unlikely to occur) we will discuss options with you. If a decision is made to refund your product we will collect it from you and refund you the purchase price.

How can I get the best life out of my macrocarpa products?

Macrocarpa and Cypress are some of the most sought-after timbers which are ideal for many outdoor and indoor uses. It is a fine grained wood which is durable and resistant to rotting and insects. Because Macrocarpa is a top choice for carefree living, it can be left natural or it can be painted or stained to match any decor.  

Left un-tinted, Macrocarpa will weather to a beautiful soft silver grey. Untreated Macrocarpa is natural and pleasing, however the wood is porous and over the long term may become discoloured if left in damp or shaded areas. A 20 percent solution of household bleach in water with one ounce of detergent per gallon will usually remove the stain. Even after years of exposure Macrocarpa can be refinished to its natural bright, clean appearance. Many people prefer to allow their Macrocarpa furniture to age naturally outdoors.    

Over time the colour will weather to a handsome silver grey highlighted by darker streaks, and the grain of the wood will become slightly raised. For protection that helps enhance and maintain the wood's natural colour, there are several wood oils available, which will need to be re-applied to maintain their look. If you would like to preserve the freshly sanded Macrocarpa with some added colour, we recommned that you use two coats of stain with an UV inhibitor. Every second year you might re-apply a coat of stain to freshen the finish. Little or no sanding preperation or primer is needed when you use a stain. Stain is breathable and will repel moisture, therefore, no blistering or peeling should occur. Well dried Macrocarpa accepts paint well.

How do I set up my kitset table?

Our tables are delivered in kitset form, with easy to instal interlocking pieces. They are very heavy and need at least 2 people to help lift and assemble. We can send instructions on how to do this if you need it and you are welcome to ring us with any questions. Each piece of timber is very heavy and it is important that the table is set up correctly to prevent any injury. Please note this is your responsibility as owners to make sure the table is installed safely. Any queries about this please call us.

Where is your macrocarpa sourced from?

Urbanmac is the online store for one of NZ's largest macrocarpa timber company, Macdirect Ltd. As a sawmill we aim get our mac from sustainably grown plantation forests in New Zealand.

Garden Bed Disclaimer and Warranty  

Our aim is to provide you with a chemical free natural timber product and while it is our hope that our garden beds will last a long time, the reality is they have a limited life span when in wet soil. Our Garden beds have an expected life span of 4-8 years.

The science suggests - “Natural durability is very variable within species and even within trees. Hence there will always be specific examples of timber from a species that fall outside the durability range given for that species”.

Because of this MacDirect Limited offer a parts replacement warranty for garden beds and compost bins for 3 years from date of purchase. After three years MacDirect offers a post and rail replacement at a reduced price. This means you can change out the rails and posts that are affected.

(To be eligible for parts replacement warranty, a proof or purchase is required. Evidence of rot or decay is required before replacement will be issued. Under this warranty a maximum of 50% of the garden can be replaced, as it is unusual for a garden bed to rot under 4 years.)

Thanks and enjoy gardening that’s chemical free!