Uniquely New Zealand

Aotearoa New Zealand is unique in many ways. Geologic isolation has meant that our plants evolved alongside other unique species with no introductions of new species until humans discovered Aotearoa. Humans have only been able to impact/modify our forests for a few centuries. A rough and rugged landscape creating geographic isolation within the country has helped to keep some native ecosystems protected, allowing us a glimpse into our ecological history.

Related articles

• Trees and ecosystems

• The uniqueness of New Zealand plants

• New Zealand’s unique ecology

• How the Ice Ages spurred the evolution of New Zealand’s weird and wiry native plants

Related media

• Ecology of New Zealand – video

• Tectonic plates – video

• Our changing ecosystems – timeline

Image: Tony Foster, Bushmans Friend