There are two commonly used grading methods available in New Zealand. This method is used for appearance, structural and industrial grades and is the most commonly used.
Knots are the major characteristic encountered in New Zealand pine which affect quality and grade.
The type, position, and condition of knots permitted varies considerably between grades. In strength grades, the type of knot is largely irrelevant. This method is used for structural grades, is more precise than visual grading, and therefore very reliable. New Zealand pine may be graded to any grading rules, but those which recognise its particular characteristics are generally the most effective. Rules which group.