The Tōtara Story

Adopt a Tōtara Tree – Help Restore New Zealand’s Native Forests

Deep within the heart of Aotearoa (New Zealand), the majestic Tōtara tree (Podocarpus totara) has stood tall for centuries – a guardian of the land and a living symbol of strength, resilience, and cultural heritage.

Today, these ancient forest guardians are becoming rare. But with your help, we can bring these giants of the forest back to life.

Why Adopt a Tōtara?

The Tōtara is one of New Zealand’s most revered native trees. Towering up to 30 metres tall and living for hundreds of years, it plays a vital role in native ecosystems.

By adopting a Tōtara tree, you are contributing directly to the reforestation of native bushland in New Zealand. Your donation helps:

  • Support native birds like kererū, tūī, and morepork

  • Regenerate forest health by stabilizing soil and preventing erosion

  • Sequester large amounts of carbon as they grow

  • Educate future generations about the importance of kaitiakitanga – guardianship of the land

In Our Past

I once stood here, proud and tall, rooted in this whenua for over two hundred years. I witnessed the passing of seasons, the songs of birds, and the quiet stories whispered by the wind through my branches.

But in the 1870s, my life was ended by the swing of a hand-held axe. My trunk fell, and the land that had nourished me was cleared—replaced by grass to feed sheep and cattle. The soil that once held my roots became my silent grave.

Today, there is hope. The guardians of this whenua are planting my descendants. One day, Totara will again rise here—strong, majestic, and standing tall where we belong.

Contribute To Our Future

“Adopt a Tōtara Tree” campaign is part of our regeneration initiative to raise fund for creating a Tōtara forest with 1,000 trees.

When you adopt a Tōtara tree, you’ll receive:

🌳A personalized Digital Adoption Certificate

🌳A GPS coordinates of your tree (where available)

🌳Annual updates from the forest you helped restore

🌳The knowledge that you’re part of a growing legacy

How to Help:

Make a Lasting Difference

  • $20 – Plant and protect ONE young Tōtara tree 🌱

  • $80 - Plant and protect FIVE young Tōtara tree 🌱 🌱🌱🌱 🌱

Whether you’re gifting in memory of a loved one, celebrating a milestone, or just giving back to Papatūānuku (Mother Earth) – your support makes a real, lasting impact.

Together, we can grow forests that stand for generations  

Click here to help: https://tinyurl.com/22rlbolt

Ngā mihi nui — thank you for being part of this journey.

Malcolm & Lyn