Want to dive into the amazing world of NZ native plants?
You've come to the right place! We're plant-crazy and we want you to be too! Learn more about native plants through our short 'Plant of the Day' videos featuring the legendary Derek Craig or browse through our 80+ native plant species, complete with images and info on our website. A massive shout-out to Derek for sharing his knowledge, to Dalida for making the videos, Mark from SquaresEyeMedia for making them look so good and to Wenna for uploading soooo many plants onto our website! A big thank you also to Nicola, our Nursery Manager and an incredible group of regular volunteers who join us twice a week, rain or shine.
We're bursting with passion for what we do and it's all thanks to over a thousand incredible volunteers! We pour our love into nurturing over 40,000 plants every year, all with one big dream: to regenerate Tāmaki Makaurau. Every little seedling is a promise to the future.
We're super proud of how we do things. Our nursery is chemical-free, because we believe in giving our native plants the healthiest start possible. And because we're a charity, every cent we make goes right back into the nursery and garden, our amazing education programmes and our environmental initiatives. This community-driven approach ensures our mahi makes a real difference.
Why go native?
By choosing native plants, you're helping protect New Zealand's unique biodiversity—and that's a big deal.
Here’s why it matters:
- Preserve Biodiversity and Be a Steward of the Land
Many native plants quietly face threats, even as they “fly under the radar.” By planting species like the majestic Kauri, the vibrant Pōhutukawa, or the delicate ground cover Pānakanake, you’re helping these treasures thrive for generations to come.
- Support Native Wildlife and Healthy Ecosystems
Urban development has stripped away vital habitats, putting native wildlife at risk. Restoring these spaces is essential. Native plants provide food and shelter, creating safe havens for birds, insects and other species. Imagine Tī Kōuka attracting native birds or Kawakawa hosting native insects—every plant plays a role in balancing the ecosystem. - The Eco-Sourced Advantage
Not all plants of the same species are equal. Eco-sourced plants are grown from seeds collected locally, meaning they’re genetically adapted to your soil, climate and conditions. This gives them the best chance to survive, thrive and strengthen your local ecosystem.
When you work with us and many other community-driven nurseries, you’ll find passion, expertise and plenty of knowledge. At our nursery, we grow over 80 species from trees, shrubs, ground covers, grasses to harakeke and climbers. We take time to understand your space and offer advice on everything from ecology to pest management. Whether you want to attract birds with Pūriri or create a dense screen with Karamū, we’ll help you choose the perfect plant for the perfect spot.
Every plant you take home carries a story; a journey of community, care and a shared love for the land. We work in the bush and along streams where these plants will grow, so we know what works best for your area and visit the areas where we planted often.
Come join our movement! You're not just buying a plant; you're joining a thousand-strong team that's growing a better, greener future for Tāmaki Makaurau, one native plant at a time. We can't wait to see you!