The causes of decline for New Zealand's native plants are varied, including habitat loss, introduced pests and weeds, climate change, and human activity. Many threatened species now survive only in small, isolated populations, making them vulnerable to local extinction events.
Conservation efforts include seed banking, habitat protection, pest control, and cultivation programs. By learning about these threatened plants and supporting conservation initiatives, we can all contribute to ensuring these botanical treasures survive for future generations to appreciate.
Understanding Conservation Status Categories
Threatened
Facing high risk of extinction in the wild, including Nationally Critical, Nationally Endangered, and Nationally Vulnerable categories.
At Risk
Not immediately threatened but could become so if population trends continue, including Declining, Recovering, Relict, and Naturally Uncommon categories.
Data Deficient
Insufficient information exists to make a proper assessment.
Not Threatened
Evaluated and not found to be at risk currently.
Kauri
Agathis australis
Threatened - Nationally Vulnerable
Ancient forest giant threatened by kauri dieback disease, a water mold that infects the tree through its roots and has spread rapidly in recent decades.
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Kakabeak
Clianthus maximus
Threatened - Nationally Critical
Striking shrub with brilliant red, beak-shaped flowers that now has fewer than 200 plants remaining in the wild due to habitat loss and browsing animals.
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