About Us

Mat Botica and the Botica Group team at Henderson, Auckland

Who is the Botica Group?

Est. 1994

Better Timber and Panel Solutions from the Ground Up

The Botica Group brings together a range of specialised businesses across the timber and panel industry, delivering plywood, timber, veneer, high-pressure laminate (HPL) and PVC panel solutions throughout New Zealand.

  • Integrated supply chain from raw product through to finished surface solutions
  • Supporting architects, designers, fabricators, joiners, builders, merchants, and DIY customers
  • Built on over 50 years of industry knowledge and 30+ years of proven business experience

By combining material supply with in-house manufacturing capabilities, we connect every stage of the process — practical, reliable solutions for projects of all sizes.

"It's the quality that matters and the service that counts."

— Ivan Botica, Founder (1946–2011)
1994
Founded
7
Group Companies
14+
Strong Team
100%
NZ Owned

Why Choose Us?

We deliver dependable outcomes through knowledge, capability, and practical support.

Decades of Experience

Built on over 50 years of industry knowledge, with more than 30 years of proven business experience, we bring trusted expertise to every project.

Uncompromising Quality

From raw materials to finished products, we maintain high standards at every stage to ensure consistent quality, durability, and performance.

Comprehensive Solutions

Our integrated supply chain — from sourcing and manufacturing to distribution — means we can support your project efficiently from start to finish.

Personalised Service

As a family-owned business, we take pride in building strong relationships with our customers, offering expert advice and tailored solutions.

Sustainability Commitment

We prioritise responsible sourcing and sustainable practices to protect New Zealand's natural resources for future generations to come.

Family Legacy

Ivan dedicated his life to building something that would outlast him. His son Matthew carries that legacy forward — not only to honour his parents, but to pass something meaningful to his own children.

Proudly Kiwi

100% New Zealand owned and operated. Keeping money in NZ, creating local jobs, and supporting Kiwi builders, tradespeople, and designers.

Always Growing

From a husband-and-wife team with one planer in 1994 to a network of specialised businesses — we've never stopped moving forward.

Botica Timber Services office in Henderson, Auckland
Plyman warehouse showing stacked plywood sheets
Quality timber products at Plyman

Our History

Three decades of growth, resilience, and a relentless commitment to quality.

1946

Ivan Botica — Born in Croatia

Ivan Paul Botica was born in the small coastal village of Racisce on the island of Korcula, Yugoslavia (now Croatia). By his teenage years he was a qualified cabinet maker, a natural leader — nicknamed "Sheriff" by his townspeople — and a passionate sportsman.

1966

New Zealand — A New Beginning

In September 1966 Ivan arrived in New Zealand, starting work for Fletcher Construction building the Auckland University clock tower. He joined J. Scott & Company as a general factory hand and within six months was moving quickly up the ladder, showing natural leadership and a sharp skill set.

1993

Made Redundant — A New Direction

After 27 years as Manufacturing Manager at Bestwood (formerly Carter Holt Harvey), Ivan was made redundant when an American firm restructured the company. Rather than looking for another job, he set up his own timber machining company in 7 Clemway Place, Henderson — and never looked back.

1994

Botica Timber Services Founded

In September 1994, Botica Timber Services Ltd was born — a husband and wife team and an 8x4 Wadkin planer. Coining the motto "It's the quality that matters and the service that counts" and standing by it, the business grew steadily, acquiring a band re-saw and a Weinig Profimat in its first years.

2002

Moving to Henderson — The Concourse

After a factory noise dispute forced relocation to Rosebank Rd in Avondale, Ivan moved the business a second time to its current home at 67 The Concourse, Henderson. Two 50m³ kilns were acquired and a loyal customer base was built — including relationships with Rosenfeld Kidson, The Lumberbank, and J. Scott.

2008–2011

Ivan's Passing — A Legacy Continues

Ivan was first diagnosed with colon cancer in late 2008. Despite the team's efforts to keep the business running, Ivan passed away at home on 27 March 2011, aged 64. His son Matthew took over, carrying on the legacy with the same values and dedication his father had instilled.

2014

Plyman Acquired

In 2014 the Botica Group acquired the Plyman division from GVP. Starting with limited knowledge of plywood panels, the team slowly grew it into a leading speciality panel shop — supporting everyone from hobbyists to large construction companies.

2016

Timberman Launched

By 2016 the Group was ready to expand into specialised solid timbers. Timberman was born as a natural complement to Plyman — together forming a complete panel and timber offering for Kiwi builders and tradespeople.

2017

Botica Pressing Services

In July 2017, the Group seized the opportunity to acquire a veneer panel business — bringing the Botica story full circle to where Ivan had spent most of his career. Botica Pressing Services (BPS) was established at The Concourse, 100% NZ owned, with products made right here in Auckland.

2021 & Beyond

A New Chapter

A team of 14 strong with 2 shifts. New businesses, new faces, and new projects — including the Auckland Airport upgrade, the Park Hyatt Hotel, and the Parliament building in Samoa. The Botica story continues with "Ooopppaa!" — rise up, positive vibes, live!

Businesses in the Botica Group

Connect with one of the businesses in the Botica Group.

Want to work with us?

Support locally owned businesses — buying our products and using our services keeps money in NZ, creates local jobs, and helps our team make your projects a reality.

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