Molesworth pines

August 01, 2026

You may have recently heard of the wilding pine problems around the country. Unfortunately the Molesworth has a fair dosing of this problem, there's a few dotted around the flatlands but once you get into the highcountry it becomes more apparent in areas. Some of these infections are from past windbreaks, some are from the neighboring Leatham and some are seeding from seedlings.
Despite great efforts on ground and heli to eradicate them they are pesky, resilient, and are scattered far and wide. It such a shame to see a beautiful alpine environment overcome with these and other native species suffocated - the Leatham is an example of this.
Former manager Jim Ward understood the problem well having managed the Molesworth for 24 years and was managing and advocating for more to address this issue. Alongside this Jim also had a very progressive future for the Molesworth in mind, a concept that would build on what they had started, "a station for the nation" which is a very refreshing idea considering how difficult it is to access a lot of our land. I spoke to Jim briefly a few years ago and he had great ideas for bike trails linking hard to access areas up through spectacular countryside alongside many other great concepts. It is very disappointing that he did not succeed with his vision.
Seven Sharp interview with Mark & Jim about the future of the Molesworth - view.
The future of the Molesworth - view.
The Molesworth artworks in progress - view.

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