When we think of wetlands in Aotearoa New Zealand, these are the kinds of places that typically come to mind - areas of water fringed with raupō (bullrush) and harakeke (New Zealand flax). Boggy Pond and Pounui Lagoon are classic examples.

Harakeke, New Zealand flax, Phormium tenax

This is one of the most iconic and distinctive native plants. It is prized among Māori for its enormous range of uses including for clothing, hunting and gathering, as well as its medicinal properties.

It was named New Zealand flax for its similar properties to European flax, however the two plants are not related.

Purei, Carex secta

These form a thick trunk of old roots and stems as they age and can grow up to 1.5 metres tall. Nobody knows how old they get, but some scientists think they may reach 100 years old.

Their droopy, graceful leaves provide nesting habitat for native birds such as weweia (New Zealand dabchick), pūweto (spotless crake), matuku (Australasian bittern) and ducks. 

Raupō, bullrush, Typha orientalis

These were used by early Māori as a building material. Raupō are a distinctive and common sight in this area.

By trapping sediment between their stems and absorbing nutrients through their roots, they purify the water, improving it for sensitive lake dwellers like tuna kuwharuwharu (eels) and īnanga.

They also provide cover and protection for a range of creatures including the shy pūweto (spotless crake) and threatened matuku (Australasian bittern).