These imposing redwoods on the bank of Te Koo Utu park were planted in the 1880s. There is also a 50-year-old grove which is an outstanding feature of the park. These trees may live more than 2000 years, so ours have a way to go.

Redwoods are the tallest known tree, and can reach 122 metres, with a diameter of 9 metres. Their height is limited by the ability of evapotranspiration to transport water to the topmost leaves.

Fossilised remains show that before the Ice Ages redwoods grew in many places, but now they are found naturally only in California, in a thin mountainous strip along the coast to Oregon., taking advantage of heavy seasonal rain, cool coastal air and year-round fog drip.

This is a valuable timber species. The wood is light, and resists fire and decay.