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nz native plants that attract birds

Are you hoping to create a vibrant, bird-friendly garden in your backyard? NZ native plants that attract birds are a fantastic way to fill your outdoor space with colour, song, and the hum of nature. Many of New Zealand’s native trees and shrubs have evolved alongside our unique bird species, offering nectar, fruit, and shelter that encourage tūī, korimako (bellbirds), kererū, and many more to visit. By selecting the right native species, you can turn your garden into a haven for wildlife, all while celebrating this country's natural heritage.

Knightia excelsa

Knightia excelsa, commonly known as Rewarewa, is an impressive NZ native tree featuring showy flowers and lush foliage. Unusual yet attractive, dark red flowers bloom across the tree in summer and are great for attracting birds. The flowers are complemented by long, narrow leaves that are mid-green and held densely on upright branches.

Buy Knightia excelsa

From $270.40

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate

Plant type: Trees

Height: 11.50 m

Spread: 4.00 m

Flowering time: Summer

Tolerances: Coastal, Hardy, Shade, Wind

Garden uses: Parks, Ponds, Screening, Specimen

Garden styles: Coastal, Native

Metrosideros 'Dalese'

Metrosideros 'Dalese' is an attractive New Zealand native pohutukawa selection valued for its compact habit, glossy evergreen foliage, and vibrant red flowers. Flowering during the warmer months, it adds strong colour and year round structure to NZ gardens while remaining manageable in size.

Buy Metrosideros 'Dalese'

From $30.29

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate

Plant type: Shrubs

Height: 3.50 m

Spread: 2.75 m

Flowering time: Summer

Tolerances: Coastal, Hardy

Garden uses: Containers, Hedging, Living areas, Pool areas, Screening

Garden styles: Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Formal, Frontyard, Japanese, Mediterranean, Modern, Native

Why Choose NZ Native Plants That Attract Birds?

New Zealand’s native plants have a special relationship with our birds. Their flowers and fruits provide essential food sources through the seasons, helping birds thrive even as urban areas expand. From nectar-rich blooms that feed tūī and korimako, to fleshy fruits and seeds relished by kererū and silvereyes, these plants add life and ecological value to your garden. Plus, many natives are hardy, low-maintenance, and adapted to New Zealand’s fluctuating climate, making them an excellent choice for both new and experienced gardeners.

Top NZ Native Plants That Attract Birds

If you want your garden alive with birdlife, consider these NZ native plants that attract birds:

Cordyline australis

Commonly known as cabbage tree, Cordyline australis is iconic in both rural and urban landscapes. Its large sprays of sweetly scented white flowers in spring attract nectar-loving birds like tūī and korimako, while the small, bluish-white berries draw in kererū and other fruit-eating species later in the year.

Knightia excelsa

The rewarewa, or Knightia excelsa, produces striking red, brush-like flowers from spring to early summer. These nectar-rich blooms are a magnet for tūī, bellbirds, and native bees, providing crucial sustenance when food sources may be scarce.

Sophora chathamica and Sophora fulvida

Known as kōwhai, both Sophora chathamica and Sophora fulvida are celebrated for their dazzling yellow flowers, which typically appear in late winter and early spring. Kōwhai nectar is particularly favoured by tūī and kererū, making them one of the best-known NZ native plants that attract birds.

Hedycarya arborea

Pigeonwood, or Hedycarya arborea, produces clusters of greenish flowers, followed by red berries in late summer and autumn. These berries are a favourite with kererū, but also appreciated by tūī, silvereye, and other native fruit-eaters.

Creating a Bird-Friendly NZ Native Garden

To get the most from your bird-attracting garden, plant a diverse mix of NZ native plants that attract birds, focusing on species that flower and fruit at different times. Incorporate layers – tall trees for perching and nesting, shrubs for cover, and groundcovers for insects and fallen fruit. Avoid using pesticides whenever possible, and provide fresh water for drinking and bathing.

NZ native plants that attract birds are a win-win for your landscape and our feathered friends. By choosing natives such as Cordyline australis, Knightia excelsa, Sophora chathamica, Sophora fulvida, and Hedycarya arborea, you’re not just gardening—you’re helping to safeguard New Zealand’s precious birdlife for generations to come.

Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.

nz native plants that attract birds

Knightia excelsa

Metrosideros 'Dalese'

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Why Choose NZ Native Plants That Attract Birds?