New Zealand was one of the last places on earth to be reached by humans. In this short time, people have struck up a remarkable relationship with the trees; using them for medicine, food, construction, recreation, spirituality, and scientific endeavours.
Click on a plant below to learn about its role in history, it’s interaction with people, and how it has been put to use over the years.
The Meaning of Trees 
One to add to the list – the Kahikatea (Dacrycarpus dacrydioides) – NZ’s tallest tree. Found in South Westland in low swamp areas and almost wiped out as was used for growing dairy export industry – butter boxes and cheese boxes as didn’t taint the product. Check out this site for further information. http://www.projectkahikatea.net.nz/history.html
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Great pick! One of my favourites – I will make sure to bump it up the list!
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Could you please add one on Kauri? 🙂 I’ve ordered your book (before the lockdown) but the company was waiting on a new shipment so still nothing yet. I’m making a jewellery project using gum & swamp Kauri for an exhibition at the Kauri Museum soon.
Would love to know more in addition to the Tane Mahuta legend.
Thanks!
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Kia ora Kylie,
Sounds interesting I will have to check out the Kauri Museum once the exhibition opens up!
I hope to get back into writing new articles for the blog shortly, but in the mean time – check out the relationship between kauri and whales.
https://tehiku.nz/te-hiku-tv/haukainga/8211/te-tohora-me-te-kauri
In traditional whakapapa Kauri and whales are brothers, the whale leaves for a life in the sea while kauri remains on land.
Thanks so much for ordering the book and hope you enjoy reading it 🙂
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great post
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tu meke !
first light, exploration of the stars, learning of titoki and inspired to grasp ngaio as she grows right outside our door) stumbled upon this vibrant site… Nga mihi, thankyou
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Kohekohe has vital remedy for the here and now.
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