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trees for native birds nz

If you're passionate about supporting Aotearoa’s unique wildlife, choosing the right trees for native birds NZ is a wonderful way to give back to the environment while creating a lush, lively garden. The right mix of canopy, shelter, nectar, and berry-producing trees not only beautifies your space but provides vital food and habitat for treasured species like tūī, kererū, and bellbird. Whether you are establishing a new section or enhancing an established garden, there are many outstanding native trees to invite more birds in – from majestic fruiting species to flowering trees that hum with avian activity through the seasons.

Beilschmiedia tarairi (Taraire) trees growing in a modern garden.

Beilschmiedia tarairi (Taraire)

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Beilschmiedia tarairi, commonly known as the Taraire tree, is a unique, NZ native tree. Its prominent feature is the masses of olive-like, purple fruits through autumn and winter, which are favoured by birds. Also of interest are the leaves, which, when young, are covered in red-brown hairs that disappear as the tree ages. Taraire grows to about 20 m tall and 7 m wide, with a smooth, brown trunk. Its slow growth rate makes it ideal for long-term landscaping projects, including ecological restoration, park plantings, and as a specimen tree in larger gardens.

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Trees
Height: 20.00 m
Spread: 7.00 m
Garden uses: Parks, Ponds, Screening, Specimen
Garden styles: Alpine, Native
Hedycarya arborea tree with lush green foliage.

Hedycarya arborea

Hedycarya arborea, commonly known as Pigeonwood, is a New Zealand native tree valued for its attractive foliage and wildlife benefits. This evergreen tree produces glossy green leaves and clusters of small, fragrant flowers in spring, followed by orange fruit that attract kererū and other native birds. It is an important species for biodiversity and a striking addition to native gardens and restoration projects.

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type: Trees
Height: 5.00 m
Spread: 3.00 m
Flowering time: Summer
Garden uses: Ponds, Screening
Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Native
A fantastic Titoki tree (Alectryon excelsus) growing as a speciment tree in an urban park.

Alectryon excelsus

Alectryon excelsus, commonly known as the Titoki tree, is a handsome New Zealand native tree valued for its lush, glossy foliage and tidy, rounded...

From$70.13
Sophora longicarinata yellow flowers.

Sophora longicarinata (Limestone Kowhai)

Sophora longicarinata is a rare and beautiful NZ native tree belonging to the kowhai family. This evergreen to semi deciduous species is admired for...

From$358.98
Knightia excelsa (Rewarewa) specimen tree in a park.

Knightia excelsa

Knightia excelsa, commonly known as Rewarewa, is an impressive NZ native tree featuring showy flowers and lush foliage. Unusual yet attractive, dark...

From$63.38
A Sophora chathamica tree growing in a garden with green foliage.

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...

From$358.98
Nestegis montana narrow green leaves on a tree.

Nestegis montana (Narrow-Leaved Maire)

Nestegis montana is a hardy and attractive native tree of New Zealand, known for its upright growth habit and glossy green foliage. This evergreen...

From$299.92
Sophora fulvida tree with masses of yellow flowers.

Sophora fulvida

Sophora fulvida (Southern Kōwhai) is a beautiful New Zealand native tree admired for its golden yellow flowers and fine green foliage. Flowering in...

From$457.29
A Kunzea robusta shrub with masses of pretty, white flowers.

Kunzea robusta

Kunzea robusta, commonly known as Kanuka or the White Tea Tree, is a fast-growing, NZ native tree. It features small, dark green leaves that release...

From$14.78
Vitex lucens (Puriri) lush, green foliage.

Vitex lucens

Vitex lucens, commonly known as Puriri, is a striking New Zealand native tree prized for its lush foliage, vibrant pink to red tubular flowers, and...

From$299.92
Sophora microphylla specimen tree covered in yellow flowers.

Sophora microphylla (Small Leaved Kōwhai)

Sophora microphylla, commonly known as Weeping Kowhai, is a treasured New Zealand native tree admired for its graceful, drooping branches and masses...

From$25.58
Pseudopanax crassifolius growing in a garden with dark green foliage.

Pseudopanax crassifolius (Lancewood)

Pseudopanax crassifolius, commonly known as Lancewood or Horoeka, is a distinctive New Zealand native tree renowned for its dramatic transformation...

From$25.58
A large Beilschmiedia tawa (Tawa tree).

Beilschmiedia tawa (Tawa Tree)

Beilschmiedia tawa, commonly known as the Tawa Tree, is a tall and graceful evergreen native to New Zealand. It is admired for its straight trunk...

From$277.74
Cordyline australis trees growing as a cluster.

Cordyline australis

Cordyline australis, also known as the Cabbage Tree or tī kōuka, is a hardy and iconic New Zealand native. It features long, sword-like green leaves...

From$24.23
A large Prumnopitys ferruginea (Miro Tree) with lush, green foliage.

Prumnopitys ferruginea

Prumnopitys ferruginea, commonly known as Miro, is a majestic New Zealand native tree belonging to the Podocarp family. This long lived evergreen...

From$453.48
Full sized Pseudopanax ferox (Fierce Lancewood) at four years old.

Pseudopanax ferox (Toothed Lancewood)

Pseudopanax ferox, commonly known as Fierce or Toothed Lancewood, is a NZ native tree that features interesting juvenile and mature forms. The...

From$22.88
Sophora tetraptera (Large-leaved Kowhai) yellow flowers.

Sophora tetraptera (Large Leaved Kōwhai)

Sophora tetraptera, commonly known as the Large Leaved Kowhai, is a striking New Zealand native tree admired for its bold foliage and spectacular...

From$22.28
A tui feeding on the berries and flowers in a Pseudopanax arboreus (Whauwhaupaku) tree.

Pseudopanax arboreus (Five-Finger)

Pseudopanax arboreus, commonly known as Five Finger or Whauwhaupaku, is a fast-growing NZ native tree that typically reaches 4–6 m tall. It features...

From$18.83
A Sophora godleyi specimen tree covered in yellow flowers.

Sophora godleyi (Godleys Kowhai)

Sophora godleyi is a magnificent New Zealand native tree valued for its graceful weeping branches and bright yellow flowers that appear in spring...

From$358.98
carpodetus-serratus-4

Carpodetus serratus

Carpodetus serratus, commonly known as the Putaputaweta Tree or Marble Leaf, is an attractive, NZ native tree with spreading branches that host...

From$343.89
Prumnopitys taxifolia (Matai) juvenile tree growing as a specimen in a park.

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...

From$329.63
Aristotelia serrata (Wineberry) tree with masses of black berries.

Aristotelia serrata (Wineberry)

Aristotelia serrata, commonly known as Wineberry or Makomako, is a fast-growing, deciduous native tree of New Zealand. It features serrated green...

From$6.68
A large Metrosideros 'Maori Princess' trees in an avenue with masses of red flowers.

Metrosideros 'Maori Princess'

Metrosideros 'Maori Princess' is a stunning cultivar of the NZ Christmas tree (Pohutukawa) and is renowned for its brilliant crimson-red flowers and...

From$28.28
fuscospora-solandri-

Fuscospora solandri (Black Beech)

Commonly known as Black Beech, this is a large, evergreen tree native to NZ. The foliage comprises small, dark green leaves which are held densely in...

From$358.98
A large Dacrycarpus dacrydioides (Kahikatea) tree.

Dacrycarpus dacrydioides (Kahikatea)

Dacrycarpus dacrydioides, commonly known as Kahikatea or White Pine, is a slow-growing, NZ native tree capable of reaching 50 m tall. The foliage on...

From$205.02
Dysoxylum spectabile tree.

Dysoxylum spectabile (New Zealand Mahogany)

Dysoxylum spectabile, commonly known as Kohekohe, is a majestic NZ native tree admired for its glossy dark green leaves and clusters of fragrant...

From$28.28
Dacrydium cupressinum (Rimu) tree juvenile foliage.

Dacrydium cupressinum (Rimu Tree)

Dacrydium cupressinum, commonly known as Rimu or Red Pine, is an iconic and slow-growing tree. The juvenile form features drooping branches densely...

From$97.13
Libocedrus plumosa (Kawaka) tree with green-yellow foliage.

Libocedrus plumosa (Kawaka)

Libocedrus plumosa, commonly known as Kawaka, is a majestic NZ native conifer valued for its graceful, feathery foliage and elegant pyramidal form...

From$358.98
Melia azedarach tree.

Melia azedarach (Bead Tree)

Melia azedarach, commonly known as Bead Tree, White Cedar or Persian Lilac, is a fast-growing deciduous tree admired for its feathery foliage and...

From$343.89
sorbus-scarlet-king-

Sorbus aucuparia Scarlet King (Rowan Tree NZ)

Sorbus aucuparia Scarlet King is a variety of the commonly known, Mountain Ash, and is a small-sized, deciduous with impressive characteristics...

From$343.89
schinus-molle-3

Schinus molle (California Pepper Tree)

Schinus molle, commonly known as the California Pepper Tree, is an evergreen tree grown for its attractive form and foliage. The leaves are bright...

From$299.92
Phyllocladus trichomanoides lush green foliage.

Phyllocladus trichomanoides (Celery Pine)

Phyllocladus trichomanoides, commonly called Celery Pine, is a striking New Zealand native tree valued for its unique, celery like foliage and tall...

From$457.29
Beilschmiedia tarairi (Taraire)

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Alectryon, Aristotelia, Beilschmiedia, Carpodetus, Cordyline, Dacrycarpus, Dacrydium, Dysoxylum, Fuscospora, Hedycarya, Knightia, Kunzea, Libocedrus, Melia, Metrosideros, Nestegis, Phyllocladus, Prumnopitys, Pseudopanax, Schinus, Sophora Sorbus and Vitex, or related Categories - Deciduous Trees and Evergreen Trees.

Search trees for native birds nz

Why Plant Trees for Native Birds NZ?

Planting native trees is one of the most effective ways to restore local ecosystems and create a sanctuary for birdlife. New Zealand’s unique birds evolved alongside our native flora, so selecting indigenous species ensures you’re providing the preferred food, shelter, and nesting opportunities. By filling your backyard or lifestyle block with trees for native birds NZ, you’ll see and hear the difference, as populations visit, linger, and even breed in your garden.

Top Tree Choices for Native Birdlife

A variety of native trees offer nectar, fruit, or shelter at different times of year. Consider planting a mix to cater for as many bird species as possible and ensure resources are available throughout the seasons. Here are some essential options for anyone searching for trees for native birds NZ:

Hedycarya arborea

This handsome tree is highly attractive to native birds. Its fleshy red fruit is a favourite of large species like kererū, while the dense foliage offers shelter and nesting sites. Hedycarya arborea copes well in most soils and is ideal for adding structure to your planting scheme.

Beilschmiedia tarairi (Taraire)

With its broad, glossy leaves, Beilschmiedia tarairi (Taraire) is a must-have for anyone wanting to attract native pigeons. The large purple fruits, produced in autumn, are a crucial food source. These trees grow best in humus-rich soils and provide valuable shade and cover.

Alectryon excelsus

Also known as Titoki, Alectryon excelsus bears clusters of vibrant red fruit that entice birds to your garden. Its spreading, graceful form and feathery foliage make it both functional and attractive as a feature tree or part of a mixed native border.

Sophora longicarinata (Limestone Kowhai)

Kowhai species like Sophora longicarinata (Limestone Kowhai) are famous for their stunning yellow flowers that produce nectar adored by tūī and bellbirds. Plant kowhai to enjoy a seasonal burst of colour and lively bird activity in spring.

Knightia excelsa

The iconic rewarewa, or Knightia excelsa, is a tall tree with elegant foliage and richly scented red flower spikes. Its abundant nectar is a magnet for honeyeaters, while the dense canopy also provides shelter.

Tips for Planting Trees for Native Birds NZ

To make your garden truly bird-friendly, plant a variety of tree sizes and types to offer food and cover year-round. Clusters or groves of natives alongside shrubs and groundcover will attract a greater diversity of species. Allow leaf litter and bark to remain, as these harbour insects for birds to feed on. Avoid using pesticides, and include a water source if possible.

Browse our full range of New Zealand native trees to create a thriving backyard bird sanctuary and enjoy the beauty of wildlife right at your doorstep.


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.

While Corokia 'Frosted Chocolate' and Gardenia Veitchii often steal the spotlight, charming plants like Pseudopanax laetus (Five Finger), Scutellaria Snowflakes (Scutellaria Skullcap), and Hoya pubicalyx 'Splash' quietly shine in any garden.
–The Plant Company

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