Vale John Purey-Cust

Many in the industry late last week heard about the sad news of the passing of John Purey-Cust on Tuesday 23rd January 2024. John was a very active member of New Zealand Institute of Forestry (NZIF), having joined in 1963. Throughout his many years with NZIF he made vast contributions to the institute and the forestry profession. His dedication and passion have left a lasting legacy that will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

John has contributed many articles to the NZIF Journal over that time, his last being last year, co-written with Don Hammond and Kent Chalmers, A Condensed History of Commercial Forestry. More about John will be included in the next NZIF newsletter and the NZIF Journal later in the year.

A post from John a few years back details his arrival in New Zealand in January 1962 to join the NZ Forest Service, working over the years in Canterbury, Otago and Southland. The link is attached here for those who had the pleasure of working with or had known John over the years.

We extend our deepest sympathies to John’s family and friends during this difficult time. May the memories of his remarkable contributions bring comfort and solace.

Source: NZIF