The redwood grove in Rotorua was planted back in 1901 with the aim of using the timber for building purposes. Therefore, they are not native to our country, they are from the northwest coast of America. Yet you will see an abundance of native ferns or perhaps, if lucky our native fauna, the ‘uropetala carovei’ dragonfly.
In addition to redwoods, the forest is home to several other exotic species introduced during the early forestry trials. The most successful of these is radiata pine, which now dominates much of the greater Whakarewarewa State Forest.
The forest undergrowth features a rich variety of fern species. Among them are the silver tree fern, the rough tree fern— the most common arboreal fern in the grove— and the palm-leaf fern, which is the most prevalent creeping fern. The black tree fern stands out as the tallest local arboreal fern, reaching heights of up to 20 metres. Several spleenwort species also thrive here.
Native plants found in the area include Pittosporum, Coprosma, native fuchsia, and mānuka. A variety of exotic low-growing plants also populate the forest floor, such as foxglove, blackberry, Scotch broom, and Buddleia.
The Grove supports a mix of birdlife. Introduced species include the tomtit, chaffinch, waxeye, and California quail. Native birds commonly seen here include the New Zealand fantail, tūī, kererū, New Zealand bellbird, and the morepork.
They said the forest was old, but no one could tell me how old.
Not in words that meant anything.
The redwoods towered above me like gods dressed in bark and moss, their spires stitching the sky into a velvet quilt.
Not in words that meant anything.
The redwoods towered above me like gods dressed in bark and moss, their spires stitching the sky into a velvet quilt.
Tiffen 46EF1 46mm Enhancing Filter
Redwoods are symbols of power, strength, longevity, and energy. They can live for thousands of years and are considered to be some of the most impressive monuments to the tenacity of organic life.
The deeper I wandered, the quieter the world became—until even the sound of my breath felt too loud. The redwoods, once seen, leave a mark
Calling upon the old forest gods who never really left.
Calling upon the old forest gods who never really left.
