WWI Hero's Oak Trees Get New Life in New Zealand

Trees carrying a century-old story of courage are sprouting new life in Howick, New Zealand, thanks to one resident's determination to preserve a living memorial.

Vicky Williamson has successfully grown 11 oak saplings from acorns collected beneath two historic trees on Stockade Hill. The original oaks were planted in 1923 by Reginald Judson, New Zealand's most decorated soldier from World War I, who earned three of the highest gallantry medals in just 33 days of fighting.

The trees' roots trace back to an extraordinary moment in 1919. When King George V presented Judson with his Victoria Cross at Buckingham Palace, the King gave him acorns specially collected from the royal estate at Great Windsor Park in England.

Judson brought the acorns home to Howick, where he lived on Picton Street. He planted them as saplings in 1923 during an early Anzac Day service, creating a living link between New Zealand soil and the battlefields where he fought.

Previous attempts to propagate the aging trees had failed, making Williamson's success particularly meaningful. "I thought there's a challenge here, and I like a challenge," she told local media.

The Ripple Effect

The timing couldn't be better. In the early 2000s, an arborist identified disease in the original Judson oaks, raising fears they might not survive.

Barry Dreyer, president of the Howick Returned and Services Association, tried arranging for new acorns from Great Windsor Park. The plan fell apart when biosecurity requirements demanded years of quarantine and tens of thousands of dollars in costs.

Now, Williamson's homegrown saplings have solved the problem without bureaucracy or expense. The RSA will present the young trees before this year's Anzac Day commemorations.

Some saplings will go to the Auckland Battalion, Judson's military unit. Others will be planted at Upham House at Macleans College and in the Auckland Council nursery, spreading the connection across the community.

Each new oak carries forward not just Judson's decorated service, but the gesture of a king honoring extraordinary bravery with a gift meant to grow and endure.