Gorse, widely regarded as one of New Zealand’s most unwelcome botanical arrivals, has nonetheless earned an unlikely place of honour in the reforestation story of Hinewai Reserve.

Frequently cursed, occasionally burned, and almost universally disliked, gorse proved to be an outstanding nurse crop, providing shelter and ideal germination conditions for regenerating native seedlings. There is also increased protection from wind, frost and grazing — while patiently absorbing decades of public hostility.

Hugh Wilson’s decision to retain gorse was highly controversial at the time and earned him sustained criticism, including abuse and threats, for what many considered an outrageous ecological gamble. That vision has since been decisively vindicated. Through Hugh Wilson’s leadership, the enduring support of the Maurice White Native Forest Trust, and the dedication of hundreds of volunteers, Hinewai Reserve is now recognised as one of New Zealand’s premier ecological restoration projects.

This emergent native canopy helps sustain some impressive mature native trees such as CR/2220.

In recognition of this legacy, and marking the first gorse ever entered into the New Zealand Tree Register, the current New Zealand Champion Gorse is named Hugh’s Gorse Bush. Having done the hard work of forest restoration, it stands as a reminder that even the most maligned species can achieve greatness — given time, patience, and an advocate willing to ignore the shouting.