It is named after Dr. Eric Godley, former head of the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR) Botany Division.

[2][3] S. godleyi has a weeping habit[4] with long pendulous branches and grey-green foliage, and can grow to height of about 25 metres.

[5] There is a profusion of yellow flowers around October/November making it one of the finest of New Zealand's native trees.

[6] Using the New Zealand Threat Classification System, S. godleyi was rated in 2012 as being "not threatened",[5] and this status continues.

[1] In horticulture it is possible to purchase 'regular' S. godleyi plants and it grows easily from seed.