ComfyPet Products is moving from round peeler-core poles to square timber poles. This change ensures we can keep producing strong, stable, New Zealand-made cat furniture despite major supply issues in the local timber industry.
New Zealand’s timber sector has gone through major disruption in the past few years. Multiple mill closures, reduced processing capacity, and industry consolidation have made round peeler cores - once a plentiful byproduct - far harder to source consistently.
To avoid delays and maintain the quality our customers expect, we’ve shifted to square-sawn radiata pine poles, which offer the same strength and reliability.
Square poles measure 95 x 95mm, similar in thickness to the old ~100mm round poles.
They deliver the same sturdy, wobble-free feel - ideal for large breeds like Maine Coons.
Still made from 100% New Zealand-grown radiata pine.
Still produced locally and sustainably.
Still built to last, with no compromise on structural integrity.
Square poles offer excellent stability.
They allow for strong mounting points.
Sisal and carpet wrap securely around the straight edges.
Peeler cores are the round centres left over when logs are rotary-peeled for veneer or LVL manufacturing. These were once easy to get, but supply has tightened due to the wider challenges in timber processing.
Recent closures and disruptions affecting the sector include:
| Mill / Operation | Location | Year | Impact | Reason |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Winstone Pulp International | Central North Island | 2024 | Pulpmill & sawmill closed, ~300 jobs lost | High energy costs, low demand |
| Ruapehu Timber Mills | Ruapehu District | 2024 | Two mills closed | Energy crisis |
| Carter Holt Harvey – Eves Valley | Nelson | 2025 | Planned closure, 142 jobs affected | Consolidation, operating costs |
| Gisborne Veneer/LVL Site | Gisborne | 2024–25 | Closed then reopened under new owner | Economic pressure, reinvestment |
These closures have reduced veneer production, limiting the byproducts needed for round poles. For small specialty manufacturers like ComfyPet, relying on peeler cores is no longer feasible.
Consistent Supply: Square-sawn poles provide a reliable, long-term material source.
Same Look & Feel: Dimensions and proportions have been matched to our existing designs.
Improved Engineering: In some models, square poles deliver even better platform support.
No Delay for Customers: Existing round-pole stock will be used until finished; new builds will transition smoothly to square poles.
This shift helps us keep offering strong, durable, New Zealand-made cat furniture without interruptions.
The timber sector may continue to change, but ComfyPet remains committed to NZ-grown materials and responsible manufacturing. By moving to square poles, we’re safeguarding production while maintaining the quality our customers have trusted since 1992.
If you have questions about how this affects your current or future order, we’re here to help.
