Akeake is easily recognised by its distinctive bright green, long, thin wavy leaves, flaking bark and its papery winged seed capsules. It is a hardy, coastal shrub or small tree.

In the right conditions, it will grow to about 10m high with a spreading crown and a trunk of around 30cm in diameter. The leaves are alternate, thin, light green with smooth margins and raised veins. The bark is reddish brown and peels off in long, thin strips. Akeake flowers are non-descript. They form in panicles at the end of branches from spring through to mid-summer.