What sort of tree did the maori people use?

Tōtara is the most versatile of the New Zealand podocarps, and was extensively used by Māori for food, medicine, building, carving and other purposes. The timber is hard and durable, making it ideal for building canoes, houses and other structures. It was also used for making weapons, such as spears and clubs, and for carving ceremonial objects.

The fruit of the tōtara tree was an important source of food for Māori, and was often dried and stored for later use. The resin from the tree was also used as a sealant and adhesive, and was an essential ingredient in the production of gumboots.

Tōtara trees are found throughout New Zealand, but are particularly common in the North Island. They are a protected species, and their timber is now regulated by the New Zealand government.

Kahikatea (Dacrycarpus dacrydioides)

Kahikatea is a large evergreen conifer that was widely used by Māori for building and carving. The timber is lightweight and easy to work with, making it ideal for building canoes, houses and other structures. It was also used for making furniture, such as chairs and tables.

The bark of the kahikatea tree was used to make rope and clothing, and the resin was used as a sealant. The fruit of the tree was also eaten, and was an important source of food for Māori.

Kahikatea trees are found throughout New Zealand, but are particularly common in the South Island. They are a protected species, and their timber is now regulated by the New Zealand government.

Matai (Prumnopitys taxifolia)

Matai is a large evergreen tree that was widely used by Māori for building, carving and making weapons. The timber is strong and durable, making it ideal for building houses, canoes and other structures. It was also used for making spears and clubs, and for carving ceremonial objects.

The bark of the matai tree was used to make rope and clothing, and the resin was used as a sealant. The fruit of the tree was also eaten, and was an important source of food for Māori.

Matai trees are found throughout New Zealand, but are particularly common in the North Island. They are a protected species, and their timber is now regulated by the New Zealand government.