A critically endangered tree in the Ashburton Domain is the subject of new protection efforts, with a cage recently being built and placed around the Australian Wollemia pine.

Its predecessor was stolen from the Domain two years ago and the Council is upping security for the tree to help keep it safe.

Willemia pine belongs to a species of conifer that was discovered in 1994 in New South Wales, Australia. After the tree was successfully cloned, a recovery plan was drawn up, outlining strategies for the management of this fragile population.

The Council is committed to safeguarding the species and ensuring it remains viable in the long term. To help achieve this, the Council has conducted a special audit of its irrigation system and made necessary repairs.
Additional features to highlight the area include planting more conifer trees and creating a path in the Domain leading to the green haven. Visual display boards will also be available for people to learn more about the plant species and its origin.​