As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, New Zealand has a significant amount of forest cover, although the exact extent can vary depending on how forest is defined. Here are some estimates of forest cover in New Zealand:

1. Native Forests: Native forests in New Zealand are predominantly composed of indigenous tree species. According to the New Zealand Ministry for Primary Industries, native forests cover approximately 6.2 million hectares, which is about 24% of the total land area of the country. These forests are found in diverse ecosystems, including temperate rainforests, beech forests, and coastal forests.
2. Exotic Forests: New Zealand also has extensive plantations of exotic tree species, primarily radiata pine (Pinus radiata). These plantations are typically managed for commercial purposes, such as timber production. As of 2020, exotic forests covered around 1.7 million hectares, representing an additional 6.5% of the land area.

Combined, the native and exotic forests in New Zealand cover approximately 7.9 million hectares, accounting for approximately 30% of the country’s land area. It’s worth noting that these figures can change over time due to land-use changes, conservation efforts, and forestry practices. For the most up-to-date information, it is advisable to consult official sources or organizations responsible for monitoring forest cover in New Zealand.

Forest trees growing in New Zealand

New Zealand is home to a variety of forest trees, both native and introduced species. Here are some notable forest trees found in New Zealand:

• Kauri (Agathis australis): Kauri trees are iconic and majestic evergreen trees that can grow to impressive heights. They are native to the northern parts of the North Island and are known for their massive trunks and ancient lineage.
• Rimu (Dacrydium cupressinum): Rimu is a large coniferous tree found in the forests of both the North and South Islands. It has distinctive reddish-brown wood and produces small, red berries.
• Totara (Podocarpus totara): Totara is a long-lived evergreen tree found throughout New Zealand. It has a straight trunk and can grow to considerable heights. The wood is highly valued for its durability and is often used in construction.
• Kahikatea (Dacrycarpus dacrydioides): Kahikatea is a tall, conical-shaped tree that is endemic to New Zealand. It is primarily found in lowland swamp forests and has white, soft wood.
• Matai (Prumnopitys taxifolia): Matai is a slow-growing tree native to New Zealand’s lowland forests. It has dark green, needle-like leaves and dense, durable timber.
• Silver Fern (Cyathea dealbata): While not a tree, the Silver Fern is a prominent plant in New Zealand’s forests. It is a large fern with distinctive silver undersides of the fronds and is considered a national symbol.
• Radiata Pine (Pinus radiata): Although not native to New Zealand, radiata pine is the most widely planted exotic tree species. It has become an important commercial timber tree and is commonly found in plantation forests throughout the country.

These are just a few examples of the many forest trees that contribute to the diverse and unique flora of New Zealand. The country’s forests are a vital part of its natural heritage and play a significant role in the ecosystem, biodiversity, and timber industry.

How much of NZ is deforested?

As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, it is estimated that around 70% of New Zealand’s original forest cover has been cleared or deforested since human settlement. This deforestation has primarily occurred since the arrival of Europeans in the 19th century and has been driven by various factors, including agriculture, logging, and land development.

It’s important to note that New Zealand has made efforts to protect and restore its forests in recent years. Conservation initiatives and reforestation projects have been implemented to increase forest cover and preserve native biodiversity. However, the extent of deforestation varies across different regions and landscapes within New Zealand.

New Zealand forests For the most up-to-date and detailed information on deforestation rates and forest cover, it is advisable to consult official sources such as the New Zealand Ministry for Primary Industries, the Department of Conservation, or organizations involved in monitoring and managing forests in New Zealand.