Geraldine has been selected as one of five locations in the South Island to boast an ex situ conservation project.
Taranaki Regional Council rhododendron collection and projects officer Andrew Brooker said the project was establishing rhododendrons around the country to ensure their survival.
It was a joint initiative by the Taranaki Regional Council, Pukeiti Rhododendron Trust, New Zealand Rhododendron Association and Massey University.
Rhododendrons were known to be one of the most threatened plant species; 25% were on the brink of extinction or known to be extinct, Mr Brooker said.
From cutting to planting, it took four to five years for them to grow to the size needed, while from a seed it took five to 10 years.
Every plant was tracked on a database, and there were more to come over subsequent years.
Some of the new bushes would flower in October this year, while others would take a further 10 years.
He could not select a favourite.
In ex situ conservation projects, species were conserved outside their natural habitats. The project had chosen public places — rather than private gardens — as it had established a succession plan and a protection plan, ensuring plants were not reliant on one person or one owner.
The Waihi River trail volunteer group, which has 18 volunteers, is a large part of the regional protection plan.
Spokesman David Attwood said they considered themselves ‘‘privileged’’ to be included in the regenerative project.
He always endeavoured to do what was best for Geraldine.
‘‘This really recognises that effort,’’ he said.
He was thankful to Lyn River, who had donated jackets to the volunteers, which he said was ‘‘icing on the cake’’ for them.
Timaru District Council parks and recreations manager Bill Steans said the planting was perfect timing as Geraldine was hosting the rhododendron conference this year.
The plants had ‘‘travelled over 1000 kilometres’’ to be there.
‘‘This is part of a world-wide initiative. It is not just for display, but a part of a larger research project,’’ he said.
There were various other threatened and endangered plant species in Timaru, so they were not novices.
‘‘It is a really exciting development.’’
