Where can you find a pohutukawa tree?

New Zealand's North Island
Pohutukawa grows in coastal forests on New Zealand's North Island, where its thick, twisted roots help it grow on rocks. These trees withstand strong southerly sea winds, salt spray and drought and can live for up to 1000 years.

Where do pohutukawa trees grow in NZ?

North Island
The mainland pōhutukawa (M. excelsa) occurs naturally in the upper half of the North Island (north of New Plymouth and Gisborne), although it grows from one end of the country to the other. It is easily distinguished from rātā by the hairs on the underside of the leaves.

Are pohutukawa trees protected in NZ?

Unfortunately for homeowners, getting rid of a pōhutukawa from their property isn't as easy as pulling out the chainsaw. Pōhutukawa are native to New Zealand and in many parts of the country they may be protected and therefore require special permission to remove – even just to prune.

How is the pohutukawa tree associated with Christmas?

The pohutukawa tree (Metrosideros excelsa) with its crimson flower has become an established part of the New Zealand Christmas tradition. The Pohutukawa, he noted, 'at Christmas … are full of charming … flowers'; 'the settler decorates his church and his dwellings with its lovely boughs'.

Can I cut native trees on my property?

Generally, a neighbor has the right to cut or trim any part of a tree that encroaches on their property – but if the tree is protected, they need resource content or will face consequences.

What does pōhutukawa mean in Maori?

1. (noun) pōhutukawa, New Zealand Christmas tree, Metrosideros excelsa, Metrosideros kermadecensis, Metrosideros bartlettii – trees found in coastal areas that bear large, red flowers around Christmas time and have leaves that are velvety-white underneath.

How long do pōhutukawa trees live?

How long do they live? Pōhutukawa can live for hundreds of years in their natural coastal environment. Although it is common to see 100-year-old trees growing in home gardens, both pōhutukawa and northern rātā are likely to live up to 1000 years.