The inimitable pōhutukawa, or Metrosideros excelsa, New Zealand’s own Christmas tree, is on display throughout Auckland Domain this summer.
This coastal evergreen tree in the myrtle family produces a brilliant display of vibrant crimson flowers against deep green foliage from November to January, the peak time being mid to late December.
Frequently seen perching precariously on rocky coastal headlands, it is admired for the way it is able to endure the harshest conditions and appear to defy gravity.