Myrtle rust has been found in the country's largest Pōhutakawa forest for the first time.
Researchers have discovered the disease on Rangitoto Island, alongside high rates of infection in pōhutakawa throughout Tāmaki Makaurau this summer.
They're warning trees could be lost if the infection continues to surge.
Beyond Myrtle Rust research programme head Mahajabeen Padamsee spoke to Corin Dann.
