R is for Rimu: an 800 year old New Zealand tree

The giant 800 year old Rimu on our walk today.

I felt like been back on a trail today after a few intense days of visiting exhibitions.
The Otari-Wilton Botanical Gardens is a few suburbs away from Craig and Shawni and are unique as they showcase New Zealand native plants, shrubs and trees. Beyond the gardens is a vast extent of native broadleaf conifer forest with a nice selection of well formed paths to walk.
The highlight was the old Rimu tree standing with such dignity and presence in the forest.

Otari-Wilton Nature Trails, wonderful morning walk.

A gardener shared some of her knowledge about the uniqueness of the shrubs and trees, particularly the Fierce Lancewood.

The tree evolved to protect itself from ground bird predation, like the now extinct moa's. Once it reaches a certain height the leaves face skyward and loose their knobbly, spiky look and soften.

Interesting.