The Mountain Cabbage Tree (cordyline indivisa) or Tōī is a monocot tree that is endemic to New Zealand. This tree often surprises me and earns a "wow" or "oh my" as I come across them while tramping. It was in this region, around the Tongariro National Park when I first really noticed these trees, and they are definitely one of my "forest favourites"!
Here on the Pukerima Wetlands walk you will see many lovely native and non-native plants and trees. You will want to wear gumboots or shoes you don't mind getting muddy if coming here during or after rain.
- Mountain Cabbage Trees
- Umbrella fern
- Many different forest giants including Rimu (and many fallen, which may be from the tornado that started here and travelled through the north side of National Park Village on 9 April 2018, destroying several homes).
- Bush Clematis (white bush flowers, in spring)
- Bush Lawyer (watch out, this invasive pest can grow over the path and steal your hat off your head as you walk under it, if you're not careful! They have sharp hooks under the leaves which similar to blackberry will attach to your clothing and skin)
- and so much more. Enjoy!
WARNING - this track is often used by hunters - if walking here at dusk or in the dark please wear bright clothing and make some noise!