The Whakatāne Mill has a long, proud history

Operating with integrity since 1939

Whakatāne Mill Limited operates New Zealand’s only folding boxboard mill, located on the North Island in the Bay of Plenty region. 

We are extremely proud of our past, having been part of the Bay of Plenty community since 1939. Our early years began with the production of primarily domestic paperboard from nearby Central North Island Pine forests. In the decades that followed, our mill has grown and developed its capabilities, and today, it produces high-quality folding boxboard that is supplied all over the world. 

We directly employ nearly 190 personnel, the vast majority of whom come from the Whakatāne area. With international backing, we will continue to be an integral part of the local community, and New Zealand’s economy, for many years to come. 

200,000 tonnes
produced annually

83 years of manufacturing

9 grades of folding boxboard produced

186 core personnel
on site

The operational history of the Whakatāne Mill

1939
1939

Paper-making operations started in 1939, leveraging New Zealand's Central North Island forests and close proximity to major ports.

1976
1976

The current paper machine started operation in 1976.

1995
1995

Various owners until bought by International Paper in 1995 as part of Carter Holt Harvey.

2004
2004

Major rebuild of Wet End section by International Paper in 2004.

2005
2005

Sold to Rank Group in 2005 as part of Carter Holt Harvey.

2010
2010

Acquired by SIG in 2010 and then converted to supply LPB (liquid packaging board) as well as FBB (folding boxboard).

2021
2021

Acquired by the Smurfit Consortium in June 2021. LPB production ends. Mill operations focused on FBB and carrier board.