Heketara is an endemic tree daisy in New Zealand. Here are 6 facts about this tree that has lovely clusters of white flowers in the spring. The native forests of New Zealand are lush, full of vegetation from the emergent Rata and Rimu trees to…
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The Ram and Ngatoro tracks create a wonderful forest walk on the flanks of Mt. Taranaki. This walk is perfect on day when you can’t go high on the mountain. The highlight of Egmont National Park, at least for most people, is the summit. During…
Lancewood is a unique native New Zealand tree that can be easily identified. Here are 7 facts about this common tree, including its two growth stages. I feel like I’ve been a bit remiss in not talking about Lancewood before. Lancewood is one of the…
New Zealand’s backcountry hut pass can be used in hundreds of huts across the country. Here is the lowdown on these passes – cost, how to get them, and which huts are excluded. Exploring the mountains and wilderness of New Zealand is an amazing experience.…
The Aotea Track on Great Barrier Island is a fun, moderate 2 to 3 day walk. Here is some info – highlights, logistics, and how to get to the island. Great Barrier Island is located just north of the Coromandel and east of Auckland. This…
The native pukatea tree can grow some humongous buttress roots. Read about why puakatea trees have these unique plank buttress roots here. New Zealand is full of unique trees that grow nowhere else in the world. Some, such as the Pohutukawa, produce beautiful red flowers,…
Spring is in the air and for many birds that means it’s time to start breeding. Here are some facts about tomtit breeding – the how, what, when, and where. In New Zealand spring starts on 1 September. Since that time I’ve been seeing a…
The native totara tree grows to a huge size and is common across New Zealand. Learn 6 facts about this tree, including why Maori revere it. As a pakeha and non-native to New Zealand it has taken me time to learn and appreciate many of…
The native kamahi tree is one of the trees that comprise the goblin forests in New Zealand. Read all about this common native forest tree here. One of the very first hikes I did upon arrival in New Zealand was a short walk on Mt.…
The endemic tomtit is one of the common forest birds found throughout New Zealand. Here are 8 facts about the tomtit, including identification tips and the 5 subspecies. I’m thrilled any time that I’m out on a walk in the bush and happen to see…