Akeake

Akeake

Dodonaea viscosa

Akeake

LOCATION: Endemic to North and South islands of New Zealand.

USES: The exceptionally hard wood of akeake (Dodonaea) was much favoured by Maori for making taiaha, patu and other weapons as well as garden implements. (NZ Plant Conservation Network)

CULTURE: The name akeake meaning ‘for ever for ever’ is best summed up by the words spoken by Hauraki Tonganui on 2 April 1864 at the battle of Orakau “E hoa, ka whawhai tonu ahau ki a koe, ake ake!” meaning: “Friend, I shall fight against you for ever, for ever!” (NZ Plant Conservation Network)