Poll May Reveal Future New Zealand Icon

5 October 2007

Poll May Reveal Future New Zealand Icon

Organisers of an annual poll to name New Zealand’s favourite native plant say the event raises interesting questions about our choice for a national emblem.

Now in its fifth year the poll has identified familiar species such as pohutukawa and the cabbage tree as New Zealand’s most loved plants, but has also revealed the popularity of lesser known species such as the 2005 poll winner, Cook’s scurvy grass (Lepidium oleraceum, common name “nau”).

The National Plant Conservation Network (NZPCN) says two of New Zealand’s emblematic species – silver fern and kowhai – have never made it to the top spot and silver fern has not even made the Top 10.

“You would have to ask whether it’s time these species were retired in favour of something that is more strongly supported,” says NZPCN President Dr Ian Spellerberg. “We might also want to question whether the All Blacks should be wearing the silver fern when they take the field given New Zealand has so many beautiful native plants. This poll really highlights the importance of such unique plant life in our lives and to our national identity.”

Voting in this year’s poll opens tomorrow (Friday 5 October) via the NZPCN’s web site (www.nzpcn.org.nz) and continues until November 30.

Recent polls have identified Poor Knights lily, kowhai, cabbage tree, Bartlett’s rata, Parapara and the scarlet mistletoe as firm favourites. The 2006 poll was topped by the Chatham Island christmas tree.

The NZPCN web site attracts over 40,000 visits a month, providing evidence of New Zealanders’ continuing interest in native plant species. This year’s poll includes prizes of $100 plant packs, supplied by the Department of Conservation, for people to gift to a local restoration project.

The poll covers plants of every kind, from the smallest ferns and grasses, to lowland trees and forest podocarps. Voters are also invited to make a comment about the plant of their choice, and in many cases this reveals a deeper connection between the physical environment and national identity.

“There are a lot of people who have a real love of our native flora, and this is a chance for them to express what is important to them,” says Dr Spellerberg.

ENDS

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