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I’m delighted that this joint Australian and New Zealand forestry conference is being held in New Zealand, and I’m equally pleased to see the emphasis on the broader Pacific region.

As you know, 2011 is the United Nations’ International Year of Forests, with the theme "Forests for People". This is clearly interwoven into your programme, as shown by your line-up of speakers – so my congratulations to the organisers.

Forestry Minister David Carter today congratulated NZ Imported Tropical Timber Group members who have committed to stopping imports of illegally sourced timber from Indonesia.

The decision by the NZITTG, which comes into force on 1 September, will bar import and sales of timber from Indonesia that does not come with credible third party verification of its legality.

I am very pleased to welcome you all to the New Zealand launch of the International Year of Forests.

As you know, the United Nations has designated this year to raise public awareness of the importance of forests. The theme is "Forests for People" – and it’s why we are gathered here this evening.

I want to take a moment to reflect on the devastation of my hometown, Christchurch. It is two weeks since the earthquake and the recovery process will be a long one.

Agriculture and Forestry Minister David Carter has welcomed the plan to merge the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry with the Ministry of Fisheries.