Not all pines are a problem, WCG target those conifers where growth gets out of control in our unique climate and soil conditions.

The Whakatipu’s most offending wilding conifer species:

Douglas Fir

Douglas-fir

(Pseudotsuga menziesii)
The Whakatipu’s most common wilding conifer with light wind-blown seeds. Flat, soft needles, pale on underside. Distinctive three-pronged scales on cones.

Contorta Pine

Contorta / Lodgepole pine

(Pinus contorta)
Needles dark green to yellow green, 4-7 cm long. Cones 3-6 cm long, their scales end in distinctive, slender prickle. Cones retained on tree. Once established, it’s hard to control.

Scots Pine

Scots pine

(Pinus sylvestris)
Needles have grey/blue-green tinge (can look silvery), 4-7 cm long. Cones 3-6 cm, on a short stalk. Cones shed annually.

European Larch

European larch

(Larix decidua)
The most common larch species. Deciduous. Once established, it spreads easily in the Whakatipu.

Black Corsican Pine

Black (Corsican) pine

(Pinus nigra)
Needles grey-green or bluish-green, grooved on opposing sides of the pair, 8-16 cm long (occasionally three needles). Cones 5-8 cm long, scales end in minute prickles. Cones shed annually.

Wilding Pine Quick ID Guide

Learn how to identify all of the wilding conifer species with our handy guide…

Download Guide

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