21 Dec 2021

In praise of the pohutukawa (and rata)

From Nine To Noon, 11:30 am on 21 December 2021

Pohutukawa Photo: Public Domain

The pohutukawa, Aotearoa's Christmas tree, is in full bloom now in many parts of the country, signalling it's time to head to the beach. But just two decades ago the future of the iconic tree was in doubt.

Robyn Haugh, Chief Executive of Project Crimson, a charitable trust dedicated to protect and restore the pohutukawa and rata, says New Zealanders are embracing the idea of donating trees around the country.

Taupo Bay, Northland. Taken by Eva Rosevear

Thorndon, Wellington. From Hilary Young

Jessica says: a little ray of light at the end of the Auckland lockdown. It is now my Christmas tree.

John and Judy are building their new home designed and built around their Rata - now in full flower and buzzing with bees.

Wilma White's personal Christmas tree.

Pohutukawa at dusk in Omokoroa in Bay of Plenty, taken by Sam Thompson.

From Frank Corbett's backyard.

Vivien Daley's Northern Rata in Heathcote Christchurch.

Westhaven in Auckland, captured by Andrea Millar.

Jennie Hamilton's backyard in Pataua North.

Westhaven in Auckland, captured by Andrea Millar.

Kotinga Hills in Golden Bay, taken by Mary Richardson.

Pohutukawa at Cockle Bay, taken by Karen Murton.

Photo taken just now in our garden in Ngaio Wellington, taken by Tom Dowling.

Kaka feeding in Southern Rata at Juliet Anne Nicholas' crib on Stewart Island

Rosemary Truss says her largest pohutukawa announces that Christmas is almost here.

We put a call out for listener's Rata and Pohutukawa snaps - enjoy!