Sumitomo SH300LF-6 Sold in New Zealand | Delivered to FPNZ Ltd
Another significant milestone for New Zealand’s forestry sector has been reached with the delivery of the first Sumitomo SH300LF-6 in 2026 to be sold in the country. The machine has been delivered to FPNZ Ltd, owned by Tania Brown of Rotorua, and is now working in a fleeting and log loading application on the skids in Kawhia .
Purpose built for demanding forestry environments, the SH300LF-6 represents the latest evolution in Sumitomo’s LF-Series utility forestry machines, offering increased durability, efficiency and operator control tailored to New Zealand conditions with a locally built PFS side entry cabin package.
Built for Forestry Productivity
The Sumitomo SH300LF-6 sits in the highly popular 30-ton forestry class and is engineered to handle a wide range of forestry tasks including log handling, processing and loading. Unlike adapted construction machines, the LF-6 Series is designed from the ground up for forestry applications, making it well suited to New Zealand’s terrain and operating conditions.
This unit has been fitted with a Duxson GX182 HD Grapple, supplied and installed by JO and Jason Donaldson from Donaldson Mechanical Ltd in Hamilton, creating a robust, high performance timber handling package ready for high cycle production work.
Backed by Proven Support
FPNZ Ltd’s long-standing relationship with Sumitomo and AB Equipment was a key factor in their decision to invest once again.
"AB Equipment have consistently stood behind their product. Over the past 18 years, FPNZ has continued to invest in Sumitomo machinery, driven by the reliability of the product, strong parts availability, and dependable support. These factors made the decision to purchase again an easy one. Garth Topless went above and beyond to make the process seamless and was a pleasure to deal with" -Tania Brown | FPNZ Limited
This feedback highlights the importance of reliable aftersales support, parts availability and strong dealer relationships in keeping forestry operations productive and moving.
Key Features of the SH300LF-6
SIH:S+ Hydraulics Technology
Sumitomo’s advanced SIH:S+ hydraulic system delivers precise controllability while improving fuel efficiency. The integrated Spool Stroke Control (SSC) automatically balances engine and hydraulic output to suit working conditions, improving cycle times while maintaining smooth, predictable machine control.
High and Wide Undercarriage
The purpose built undercarriage provides increased ground clearance for travelling over stumps and forestry debris, while maintaining lower ground pressure for softer or wetter ground conditions. Reinforced components, sealed rollers and idlers, full length track guards and improved cleaning access make the SH300LF-6 well suited to harsh forestry environments.
Utility Arm and High Lift Boom
Designed specifically for forestry operations, the heavy duty utility arm and high lift boom increase upward reach and working range. This allows operators to position logs higher with confidence while benefiting from improved maneuverability during loading operations.
Minimal Maintenance Design
Downtime is reduced through simplified access to service points, easy to clean dust proof nets and a fuel pre-filter with water separator fitted as standard. Fuel and oil filters are positioned for fast and practical servicing in the field.
SPACE 5+ Engine Technology
The SH300LF-6 is powered by SPACE 5+ engine technology, combining common rail fuel injection, cooled EGR and turbocharging to deliver strong performance alongside excellent fuel efficiency, even during continuous forestry operations.
A Strong Forestry Solution in Kawhia
Configured specifically for fleeting and log loading on the skids, this SH300LF-6 and Duxson GX182 HD Grapple combination delivers the reach, stability and control required for high production timber handling. The setup is designed to maximise uptime, reduce operator fatigue and perform reliably in demanding forestry conditions.
A Milestone for Sumitomo Forestry in New Zealand
The delivery of the first 2026 SH300LF-6 in New Zealand marks an important step forward for Sumitomo’s forestry range locally. It reinforces the brand’s reputation for producing tough, reliable machines built specifically for forestry work.
FPNZ Ltd’s investment highlights growing confidence in the LF-6 Series as a premium solution for forestry contractors seeking productivity, efficiency and long term reliability in New Zealand.