This project has high priority because of the ecological and structural importance of the major tree species in our forests. New Zealand has about 676 woody plant species (including 39 vines), with about 252 trees and shrubs and 7 vines assessed as threatened.
On-shore species in this group include Halocarpus kirkii, Libocedrus plumosa, and Planchonella costata. There are also several off-shore island species including Elingamita johnsonii, Melicytus chathamicus, and Meryta sinclairii.