An introduction to the notable trees of New Zealand

This introductory guide is a record of the Notable Trees New Zealand (NTNZ) which have been registered by the RNZIH since 1978.

There are currently more than 400 registrations representing some 3000 trees. These records are held in the RNZIH Notable Trees Register lodged at the RNZIH National Office at Lincoln. The aim of this guide is to draw attention to this great heritage, foster the exchange of information, and to encourage more tree owners to submit their trees for National Registration and ultimate protection.

The work to date has been done voluntarily, and we encourage support and further research and information.

The purpose of the Notable Tree Register

This register is of national importance. The recording of these significant trees is an attempt to locate and identify one of the great treasures of New Zealand, which is its heritage of venerable trees. By registering and labelling these outstanding trees, public attention is drawn to them and in this way they receive a measure of protection by being acknowledged as very important.

So many trees are lost because their significance is unknown. There are many more significant trees needing registration.

Qualities needed to receive Notable Tree Registration

Significant trees are recorded on a RNZIH registration form. These forms are prepared and submitted by nominated Tree Registrars or members of the public who are concerned about trees either publically or privately owned, both in urban and rural locations. The registration forms are sent to the National Registrar. They are then judged for their suitability as potential trees of national importance.

To qualify, trees must be more than 50 years old, and be significant for one or more reasons based on the Standard Tree Evaluation Method (STEM). The publication 'Standard Tree Evaluation Method' has been introduced by Ron Flook, and reviewed by Bruce Treeby.

The book "An Introduction to the Notable Trees of New Zealand" has defined these reasons under the following headings:

	Stature
	- Feature (size)     - Form (shape)
	Historic
	- Age     - Association (with an eminent person or event)     - Commemorative (as a record of a historic occasion)     - Remnant of an original forest or planting
	Scientific
	- Source (of botanical interest)     - Rarity (found in unusual circumstances or numbers in NZ)     - Collection (e.g. Arboretum)

We hope to inspire others to contribute and welcome any additional information or corrections for our records. We need help from researchers and volunteers in the field. The work is not difficult, but demands time and enthusiasm. The effort is well worthwhile and helps to preserve our living legacy.

New Zealand has a major contribution to make towards an International Seed Bank. Many trees abroad no longer exist in the wild state. Their early progeny was brought to New Zealand in the last century and have since thrived in a clean, pure environment. Some are now outstanding specimens and provide considerable interest for their size, history or rarity.

Our native trees also generate international interest and provide a fascinating tour for overseas tree lovers. This resource must be protected. We need legislation now to ensure as caretakers of this heritage, that we will not be regarded by our descendants as part of an uncaring period in New Zealand history.

For more information on Notable Trees New Zealand including the topics below:

	How become a Tree Registrar
	Flyer for 'An Introduction to the Notable Trees of New Zealand'
	Procedure for registering a Notable Tree
	Notable Tree Registrations in my Region
	Notable Tree Registrations in my District
	Copy of Burstall's list for my Region
	Flyer for 'A Standard Tree Evaluation Method' (STEM)