Two karaka trees are located directly behind Ōnuku Marae. They appear to have been planted in close proximity, and this entry records the slightly larger of the two specimens.

There is also a pōhutukawa and a cabbage tree on the same property which appear to be of a similar age.

The current homeowner—whose father previously owned the property—reports that the trees are approximately 200 years old. This age estimate is plausible for mature karaka and aligns with the oral history associated with the site. The homeowner has indicated a willingness to allow future access to view and document historic photographs that may provide additional verification of the trees’ origin and age.

If the estimated age is accurate, these trees likely originated as seeds or seedlings transported from the North Island, carried by Māori via waka across Cook Strait and then by foot to their current location—representing a minimum journey of over 400 km (Wellington–Ōnuku). This aligns with well-documented Māori dispersal and cultivation of karaka beyond its natural southern range.

Given the cultural and historical significance of these trees, genetic testing would be highly valuable. Comparative DNA analysis with known regional populations may help identify the original source population and provide insight into early Māori plant movement and settlement pathways.

A one-metre seedling sourced from this tree has been provided by the homeowner and is intended for planting within the Orton Bradley Park Arboretum as part of ongoing conservation and provenance-preservation efforts. If planted, the seedling will be registered and linked to its parent tree.

Karaka is a medium-sized, evergreen tree endemic to Aotearoa New Zealand, naturally occurring in coastal and lowland forests. Its strongest natural distribution lies in the northern North Island, extending south into parts of Wellington and scattered sites in the South Island, including Banks Peninsula. Much of its southern distribution is attributed to historic Māori cultivation, making cultural history an essential factor in interpreting the significance of this specimen.

Hammer, J.R., 2025

Native Plants. (n.d.). Corynocarpus laevigatus (Karaka). Retrieved 22.12.25 from https://www.nativeplants.nz/corynocarpus-laevigatus.html