list of native trees
Discovering a list of native trees is an inspiring way to connect with New Zealand’s unique natural heritage. Whether you’re restoring a section of bush, creating wildlife corridors, or simply seeking a statement specimen for your garden, native trees offer incredible ecological, aesthetic, and practical benefits. Many of the trees on this list provide food and shelter for native birds, improve soil health, and require less maintenance once established. Below, explore some of Aotearoa’s most iconic and useful native trees—including planting tips and recommended options that thrive in gardens and reforestation projects alike.
Prumnopitys taxifolia (Matai)
Prumnopitys taxifolia, commonly known as Matai or Black Pine, is a stately, NZ native tree with quite different juvenile and adult forms. The juvenile form has orange branches held with a tangled appearance and silver-coloured foliage. The tree eventually develops dense, yellow-green foliage and distinctive hammer mark patterns on the trunk. It typically grows to 10 m tall and 6 m wide in 10 years, but will eventually reach 25-30 m tall after several more decades. The different forms make Prumnopitys taxifolia both an unusual and attractive plant that is ideal for including in a mixed planting in a large garden or for using in a native revegetation project.
From $329.63
Metrosideros robusta
Metrosideros robusta, commonly known as Northern Rata, is a majestic New Zealand native tree renowned for its brilliant red flowers and large, spreading canopy. Typically found in coastal and lowland forests, it can grow up to 25 metres tall with a broad, rounded form. Northern Rata is ideal as a statement tree in large gardens or revegetation projects. It attracts native birds, tolerates wind and coastal conditions, and provides striking seasonal colour in summer.
From $358.98
