Enjoying the Flora in New Zealand by Glenda Sinks

Photo: Glenda Sinks

The snow is hanging on this year, and most of us are probably dreaming of summer.  I was fortunate to experience summer the last few weeks on a trip to New Zealand and Australia.  This first blog features flora in New Zealand with a blog to follow featuring flora in Australia.  

Photo: Glenda Sinks

I especially enjoyed the Wellington Botanic Gardens.  Not only is there no entrance fee, the 62-acre garden sits atop a volcanic hill which is best reached by cable car.  The winding paths down the hill reveal native forests, tropical plants, and views of this capital city.  It was interesting to learn that the Wellington City Council has managed the gardens since 1891, but it also relies on a voluntary organization to give tours and raise funds. 
 
There are an unusually high number of fern species found in the undergrowth of evergreen forests areas around the country.  It’s no wonder that a fern is the national symbol of New Zealand.  The silver fern is the specific species that was chosen.  

Photo: Glenda Sinks

Photo: Glenda Sinks

As our cruise ship pulled into the ports of Napier, Lyttelton, and Dunedin, we were greeted by mounds of lumber on the dock waiting to be loaded for markets in Korea, Japan, China, & India.  In fact, the lumber industry brings in 10% of the country’s revenue.  It is a sustainable industry because Monterey pines—Pinus radiata—are fast-growing (25 years) as well as having a variety of other desirable qualities.  

Photo: Glenda Sinks

While roses are no stranger to us, being able to stroll in a beautiful and extensive rose garden with no entrance fee struck me as very progressive; such was the case in the rose park across from our hotel in Auckland.  

Enjoy two of my favorite varieties from that garden.

Scentimental
Photo: Glenda Sinks

Tequila Sunrise
Photo: Glenda Sinks