Name: The Plant Company
Address: 284 Meeanee Road, Meeanee, Napier, 4112, New Zealand
Telephone: 0800 843 752
Price range: Contact Us
Rating: 4.8/5

nz native trees to attract birds

Looking to bring more native birds into your garden? Planting nz native trees to attract birds can transform your backyard into a paradise alive with tui, bellbird, kererū, and fantail. Many native trees provide nectar, berries, and shelter that our unique wildlife depend on throughout the year. Whether you want to encourage more songbirds or simply support New Zealand’s biodiversity, choosing the right native species makes a difference. Below, you’ll find expert tips and top recommendations for the best nz native trees to attract birds, including options for all garden sizes.

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: 30.00 m

Spread: 8.00 m

Flowering time: Summer

Tolerances: Coastal, Hardy, Shade, Wind

Garden uses: Parks, Ponds, Screening, Specimen

Garden styles: Coastal, Native

Sophora chathamica

Sophora chathamica (Coastal Kōwhai) is a stunning New Zealand native tree known for its masses of bright yellow flowers that appear in early spring. This coastal kōwhai is fast growing, hardy, and highly attractive to native birds such as tūī and kererū.

Buy Sophora chathamica

From $323.65

Suited to regions: All regions

Plant type: Trees

Height: 10.00 m

Spread: 4.00 m

Flowering time: Spring

Tolerances: Coastal, Hardy, Wind

Garden uses: Parks, Screening, Specimen

Garden styles: Alpine, Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Modern, Native

Why Choose NZ Native Trees for Birds?

NZ native trees are specially adapted to our wildlife, offering vital food and safe habitats. Their flowers, fruit, and foliage feed and protect birds from predators and harsh conditions. Planting native species fosters healthy ecosystems, supports threatened bird populations, and lets you enjoy the sights and sounds of nature at home.

Top NZ Native Trees to Attract Birds

1. Rewarewa (Knightia excelsa)

The striking Knightia excelsa, also known as rewarewa, is famous for its spiky red flowers in spring. These blooms are packed with nectar, attracting tui and bellbirds from far and wide. Its tall form makes it an excellent choice for gardens that can accommodate a majestic focal point.

2. Kowhai (Sophora chathamica)

The golden blossoms of Sophora chathamica, a species of kowhai, are loved by nectar-feeding birds. Kowhai trees flower in early spring, providing essential sustenance for birds emerging after winter. Their delicate foliage suits a variety of garden settings and attracts a wonderful array of native visitors.

3. Pigeonwood (Hedycarya arborea)

If you wish to draw kererū and other fruit-eating birds, look to Hedycarya arborea. These trees bear fleshy fruit that kererū and tui relish. They’re also valued as a shelter plant, offering dense foliage where birds can nest and take refuge.

4. Titoki (Alectryon excelsus)

The NZ titoki, Alectryon excelsus, produces striking red fruit that provide food for native birds, especially kererū and tui. With their attractive, glossy leaves and modest size, titoki trees fit well in urban or suburban gardens.

5. Cabbage Tree (Cordyline australis)

Known for its spiky leaves and dramatic presence, the Cordyline australis or cabbage tree attracts birds with its sweet-smelling flowers and plentiful fruit. The berries are a favourite of starlings, tuis, and waxeyes, while the tree’s structure offers perfect perching spots.

Tips for Creating a Bird-Friendly Garden

Plant a mix of flowering, fruiting, and shelter trees for year-round support.
Grow trees in clusters or along garden boundaries to form natural corridors.
Avoid pesticides and provide clean water sources to help birds thrive.
Leave fallen leaves and logs to encourage insects that many birds feed on.

Enhance Your Garden with NZ Native Trees

Bringing nz native trees to attract birds into your garden is a rewarding way to help wildlife while enjoying the beauty of New Zealand’s flora and fauna. Visit our range of native plants, including Knightia excelsa, Sophora chathamica, Hedycarya arborea, Alectryon excelsus, and Cordyline australis, to start creating your bird-friendly oasis today.

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 trees to attract birds

Knightia excelsa

Sophora chathamica

Did you find what you are looking for?

Why Choose NZ Native Trees for Birds?