Protect Your Land
From Invasive Plant Species

Wilding pines are one of the biggest threats to New Zealand’s farms and native landscapes. If left unchecked, these fast-spreading trees can overrun productive land, smother native ecosystems, and drastically alter our natural environment.

Longridge Contracting has been a key delivery partner in the National Wilding Conifer Control Programme since 2016. Over the past five years, we’ve carried out large-scale eradication projects across the Mackenzie Country, Craigieburn Ranges, and the Waiau area — helping to protect thousands of hectares from invasion.

Wilding conifers spread rapidly, with each tree capable of releasing hundreds of seeds. The main species of concern include:

Without control, these trees outcompete native species, dry out landscapes, and reduce biodiversity. That’s why targeted, ongoing management is critical.

Gorse and broom are aggressive scrub weeds that spread rapidly and take over valuable farmland and forestry blocks. Originally introduced for hedging, gorse is now one of New Zealand’s most widespread and problematic plant pests.

These woody weeds grow quickly and form dense thickets, competing with pasture and young forests for space, sunlight and water. Gorse in particular poses a major fire risk in summer due to how easily it dries out.

Seeds can travel long distances by wind or on animals, making early control essential to prevent widespread infestation.

Why control gorse and broom:
• Invade grassland and reduce productivity
• Shade out native or planted vegetation
• Create fire hazards in dry conditions
• Difficult and costly to remove once established

We use a combination of ground control and aerial spraying to manage infestations effectively — targeting dense growth before it spreads further.

Nassella tussock is an invasive grass that poses a serious threat to New Zealand’s high country and productive farmland. Originally from South America, it spreads rapidly — with each mature plant capable of producing up to 100,000 seeds.

These seeds are easily carried by wind, water, livestock, vehicles, and even clothing. While most only last a year or two, some can stay dormant in the soil for years before germinating, making long-term control a real challenge.

We offer both manual (grubbing) and chemical control options to help manage nassella on your property. Early detection and consistent control are key to stopping its spread.

Talk to us today to secure your control programme.

Invasive weeds come in many forms — and each has the potential to choke out native ecosystems, reduce farm productivity, and increase management costs if left untreated.

We provide targeted control for a range of noxious species, including:
• Old man’s beard
• Banana passionfruit
• Blackberry
• Buddleia
• Chilean needle grass
• Woolly nightshade
• Wild grape
• Pampas
• Himalayan honeysuckle

Our team uses a mix of manual, chemical and aerial techniques to control infestations based on terrain, scale and risk. If you’ve spotted unwanted growth, get in touch early — fast action prevents costly spread.