Rata, No. 1 Line track

The most spectacular of New Zealand's rata are those that eventually become large — sometimes giant — trees, like the Northern rata. But smaller species of rata (this is probably Metrosideros diffusa) grow in profusion in many of our forests, and even when they're not flowering they're lovely to look at.

This photograph is dedicated to the memory of Raewyn Hilliard, who passed away last Saturday — the day I photographed this. It's thanks to the generosity of Raewyn and her husband, Kerry, in granting access over their land, that we're able to enjoy the No. 1 Line track.

All content © 2015 Pete McGregor