The Crown's forestry research institute, Scion, wants a permit to plant up to 4000 genetically engineered pine trees in Rotorua over the next 25 years.
The institute, which has already conducted a smaller field trial of the GE pines, is about to lodge its application with the Environmental Risk Management Authority.
It says it wants to build on its progress and test for faster tree growth and increased wood stability and density.
Scion says its outdoor containment method means there is no danger of pollen drift, but the Soil and Health Association believes there is a chance of the pollen spreading and says it will vigorously fight the proposal.
