Pāmu takes action on wilding conifers to protect land and future generations

Pāmu is proactively removing wilding conifer seed sources from several farms, including Lynmore, Eweburn, Centre Hill, Eyre Creek, and Mt Hamilton Stations. Invasive species like Corsican pine and Douglas fir spread thousands of wilding seedlings, threatening native biodiversity and encroaching on neighbouring DOC conservation land.

To balance livestock shelter and environmental responsibility, these trees are being replaced with cypress (macrocarpa and other varieties), which provide effective shelterbelts without the risk of wilding spread. This approach ensures long-term land sustainability while reducing the impact of invasive species on New Zealand’s natural ecosystems.

While these shelterbelts have historically provided protection for stock, they are being replaced with cypress species like macrocarpa, which offer similar shelter benefits without the risk of wilding spread. These new shelterbelts will also be planted in wider, more effective 30-metre swathes that not only improve shade and shelter for livestock but also qualify for the ETS scheme, contributing to the bottom line at Pāmu.

Wilding conifers weren’t always seen as a threat. When DOC and Landcorp were part of the Department of Lands and Survey, these species were widely planted. Over time, they began spreading aggressively, particularly in Otago and Southland, requiring extensive DOC control efforts.

With many Pāmu farms bordering DOC land, we recognise the importance of being a responsible neighbour. By proactively removing wilding conifer seed sources on our land, we’re helping to prevent further spread and supporting DOC’s conservation work to protect native ecosystems. Pāmu Environment Manager Ngahere Gordon Williams says: 

The forestry strategy at Pāmu isn’t just about removing wilding conifers—it’s about replacing them with the right trees in the right places. By balancing productive land use with environmental stewardship, we’re ensuring our farms remain sustainable for future generations.

Our approach to farm forestry includes:

• Expanding commercial forestry – Planting 15-17% of Pāmu-owned land in productive forestry (currently at 10.5%).
• Diversifying tree species – Introducing natives, redwoods, eucalypts, and cypress for long-term environmental and economic benefits.
• Enhancing biodiversity – Strengthening riparian planting to improve water quality, sequester carbon, and support native habitats.
• Maximising timber value – Replacing wilding-prone trees with cypress, a premium timber species offering better returns than radiata pine.
• Prioritising animal welfare – Establishing wider, more effective 30m shelterbelts that provide superior shade and wind protection.

While removing wilding conifers comes with a cost—especially when usable timber isn’t recoverable—the long-term benefits far outweigh the short-term challenges. By acting now, we’re protecting native ecosystems, reducing future control costs, and improving the productivity of our land.

At Pāmu, we’re committed to farming the right land, planting the right trees, and retiring the right areas to create a more resilient and sustainable future. Our approach balances productivity with environmental responsibility, ensuring long-term benefits for both our farms and the ecosystems they support.

By carefully selecting tree species, managing shelterbelts effectively, and working alongside conservation partners, we are setting a new standard for sustainable land use. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to address legacy land management issues while improving biodiversity, soil health, and water quality.

A better future starts with the right choices today—by acting now, we’re safeguarding the productivity of our farms and protecting New Zealand’s natural landscapes for generations to come.