Entire sections of New Zealand’s East Coast beaches are being buried under massive amounts of driftwood, and rivers are carrying enormous rafts of logs—some large enough to support a bridge—following recent storms. This phenomenon has become increasingly common, particularly in areas like Gisborne and Hawke Bay, where the aftermath of heavy rainfall has exposed the long-term consequences of forestry practices. The issue is closely tied to the widespread planting of Radiata pine, a fast-growing tree species introduced from California in the 1960s. These pines were initially favored for their ability to stabilize erodible soils with their deep root systems, and they now make up 90% of commercial forests in the region, contributing significantly to New Zealand’s economy. The environmental impact, however, stems not from the trees themselves, but from how they are managed. Traditional forestry practices involve clear-cutting—removing all trees from a given area—rather than using selective logging methods. This leaves the soil completely exposed for several years, making it vulnerable to erosion. When heavy rains hit, the destabilized ground can lead to debris flows that carry large amounts of woody material into rivers and coastal areas. In Gisborne, for example, up to 90% of the debris found after storms comes from these clear-cut areas, known locally as "slash." This debris accumulates in rivers, creating rafts that can damage infrastructure, clog waterways, and disrupt local ecosystems. In response to the damage caused by these practices, new regulations have been introduced to restrict clear-cutting on steep slopes classified as high-risk areas, particularly those larger than two hectares. These measures require land use permits and detailed erosion risk assessments before any logging can proceed. However, the damage has already been costly. For example, the cleanup after the 2018 floods in Tolaga Bay cost around $10 million, with the government helping to cover some of the expenses. The legal system has also taken notice, with five forestry companies convicted under the Resource Management Act for their role in these environmental impacts. The ecological consequences of this debris are far-reaching. The accumulation of woody material on intertidal rocks and in waterways can damage marine life by reducing water clarity and causing physical abrasion. Local species such as whitebait, mussels, crayfish, and pāua are showing signs of decline, raising concerns among coastal communities. While the Radiata pine itself was chosen for its ability to prevent erosion, the clear-cutting practices have turned it into a contributor to coastal disasters. This situation highlights the challenge of balancing economic interests in forestry with the need for sustainable land and coastal management. Though new restrictions have been put in place, the long-term success of these efforts remains uncertain. Whether New Zealand can adapt its forestry practices without compromising its export industry remains an open question, one that may be answered by future storms or by the ability to find a sustainable balance between economic and environmental priorities.