Establishing Our Kawakawa Plantation

Planting kawakawa at scale is very different from seeing it grow naturally along a forest edge. In the wild, it thrives in sheltered areas, often beneath taller trees.

Creating a plantation means working with that natural behaviour rather than against it.

When we began, planting and shelter were our biggest concerns. Kawakawa requires protection from wind and direct sun exposure, this is especially important when growing for food grade as the leaves need to be at their best for flavour and quality.

Plant protection from the natural elements mattered more than we initially expected. We have had 3 trys over the years at planting kawakawa and this time we feel we have it right.  

Rather than rushing production, the focus has been on building a sound structure that can be replicated over the years.

Planting Approach

• Planting in rows for easy access
• Access for maintenance
• Wind break for plant protection
• Reduced sunlight stress by being under a sheltered canopy

Young plants are monitored during their transplant stages. Establishment is gradual, but once settled, kawakawa flourishes.  

What We've Learned

• Shelter is critical.
• Growth is steady.
• Leaf quality is based around plant protection.

Working with kawakawa has reinforced something simple — native plants perform successfully when conditions mirror their natural environment, however human cultivation and care can enhance this natural environment and give the plant space to truly flourish.

Looking Ahead

As the plantation continues to mature, we'll refine as we go and move from harvesting of wild stands to harvesting from our planation.  Establishing a plantation is not a one-season task — it's gradual and on going.

This is the foundation behind every leaf that is harvested at Native Tree Farm in Whakatāne, New Zealand.