Hidden gem: Century-old ‘twin leader’ tree wows in Canterbury, NZ

A remarkable 127-year-old Redwood tree has been discovered in Ashley Gorge near Oxford, North Canterbury. The tree is unique because its trunk split into two “leaders” early in its life, likely due to snow or strong winds, and has grown to over 40 metres high with a base diameter of more than 2 metres.

Local community members, including the Ashley Gorge Reserve Advisory Group and the nearby holiday park operator, have built an accessible walkway to allow public viewing of this and other Redwood trees in the area. The group plans to nominate this unique “double leader” tree for the Tree of the Year competition in early 2025.

The tree stands as a testament to nature’s resilience, having survived challenging climatic conditions for over a century, and now serves as a focal point for promoting environmental appreciation and public engagement with nature.

About the author

Dave Green

With a deep-rooted passion for nature and a decade-long journey nurturing redwood trees, Dave stands as a dedicated steward of these majestic giants. Over the past ten years, Dave has meticulously cultivated redwood trees, witnessing their growth from mere saplings to towering sentinels of the natural world. As a UK-based enthusiast, Dave has developed a profound understanding of the intricacies of redwood tree care, adaptation to local climates, and their unique appeal in British landscapes. Through Dave's expert insights and hands-on experience, readers are invited to explore the enchanting world of redwood trees and discover the wonders that these living monuments bring to our surroundings.