The spring-fed stream which attracts the pīwakawaka, and has the perfect conditions for Nikau to flourish.
One focus of the Nature Trail is ferns. They are difficult to propagate, which is why we have planted very few of them. But they will establish on their own once sufficient cover is provided as they don't like too much direct sun.
Several fern species have established in locations around Manawa Karioi, and fortunately they are easy to transplant. Which is good as a lot tend to grow right on the track, where if left they will block access.
Species we will be transplanting along the Nature Trail are:
Huruhuru Whenua.
This is the most common fern around south Pōneke as its' thick glossy leaves can cope with salt-laden winds. They also give it a tropical look. It gets quite large - growing up to 1m high and 1.5m wide.
Mamaku
The tallest tree fern, Mamaku grows 20m tall, with the fronds being 4m long. It's the most common tree fern in Poneke, and while it thrives in deep, damp gullies, it can grow in quite exposed areas too.
The unfurling frond of the Ponga.
Ponga
The second tallest tree fern, Ponga grows 10m tall. The fronds have a white underside, which have been used for hundreds of years to aid with walking at night as they reflect moonlight - kind of like a torch! Also known as "Silver Fern", the Ponga frond is a common logo, particularly on sports uniforms.
People often refer to all tree ferns as "ponga", but there are 8 species of tree fern in total.
The trunk of a tree fern is actually an extension of its root system, which is why some species will grow back from sections of cut trunk.