Ancient Podocarp Forests of New Zealand
Before European settlement New Zealand was predominantly cloaked in indigenous forests. Estimated, to once cover 86 per cent of this land. That coverage is now reduced to around 20 percent. Most of that remaining original forest is located here in the south west corner of the South Island of New Zealand. Large percentages of that are now in total conservation protection. I am fortunate to live and work among the ancient podocarp forests that surround me.
The Mists of Time Seep through Podocarp Trees
Podocarp Forests date back around 70 million years. These forests were here in the time of the dinosaurs. Once, New Zealand was part of the ancient continent of Gondwanaland. Our land separated and moved to its current location bringing with it these ancient forests. Podocarp trees are very ancient and primitive. One can easily get the impression walking amongst these trees that a dinosaur could appear at any time. It is amazing to think that dinosaurs would have roamed similar forests. New Zealand has no land based native mammals except bats. Historically there have been no browsing animals here. New Zealand’s forests are very special indeed. They have not been modified by animal browsing for millions of years. The remnants we have today are survivors of very determined efforts by man to destroy them. Indeed, they have only been preserved for future generations by recent very more enlightened attitudes.
Mysterious Forests of New Zealand
This part of New Zealand is located at 40 degrees or further south. It is described as a “temperate” yet much of the lowland and plant life has a sub tropical appearance. Indeed, the southern natural limit of the palm tree (Nikau) is just to the North of me at Punakaiki. Many of the forest trees carry epiphytes and lianes more typical of the tropical latitudes. Astounding, it is to learn that something like around 90 per cent of the tree and plant life in this land is found no where else on earth!
The Romance of New Zealands Forests
For me the romance of this lowland podocarp forest is everywhere. It is mysterious, damp, timeless and romantic. Forest floors are cloaked in thick padding of luxurious green mosses. Weird fungi abound. Huge tree ferns soar 20 metres above. Lichens and a huge variety of ferns cloak every surface. Creeks, rivers and waterfalls tinkle. Native birds like the magnificent Tui and Bellbirds astound you with their amazing repertoire of sounds both musical and whimsical. This is a special place!
