The name Te Rimutahi translates to the ‘lone Rimu tree,’ referring to a sacred tree that once stood where Ponsonby and Karangahape Roads intersect today. Te Rimutahi also refers to the entire Ponsonby ridge-line, a traditional walking track that linked Maungawhau and Te Oka pā.
Dacrydium cupressinum, commonly known as Rimu, is an iconic and slow-growing evergreen tree. The juvenile form features drooping branches densely clothed with short, light green, needle-like leaves. A mature tree has a broad crown and eventually reaches a height of 25 m and a width of 10 m, with leaves that are now short and sharp. Dacrydium cupressinum is suited to growing as a specimen in a large garden or park, and so a mature specimen was selected for planting at Te Rimutahi at 254 Ponsonby Road.
The Rimu tree was lifted into its new position at Te Rimutahi on Monday 31 March, 2025.
An assessment of the rimu tree at Te Rimutahi was undertaken by the (Acting) Urban Forest Manager on Tuesday, 12 May, 2026. He reported;
“The tree was observed to be exhibiting signs of physiological stress. This is most likely attributable to environmental factors, particularly exposure. Notable symptoms included browning of the foliage and visible cracking of the bark on the northwestern aspect of the stem. This aligns with the area receiving the greatest intensity of direct sunlight, suggesting possible sun scald and associated moisture stress.
Further to this, I understand… that the tree was installed as a large-grade transplant. It is common for larger transplants to exhibit symptoms of stress following relocation from nursery conditions to their final planting environment. The adjustment period can involve reduced root functionality relative to canopy demand, increasing susceptibility to environmental stressors such as heat and exposure.
At this stage, the observed symptoms are consistent with transplant shock combined with environmental exposure.
Continued monitoring is recommended to assess the tree’s recovery and to determine whether further intervention is required”
We were encouraged that the rimu could survive and recover, but on Thursday, June 4, 2026, we were advised;
“This is to keep you informed of progress on the Rimu tree. After assessments by Natural Habitats, the contractor, and AC urban tree team, it was decided to replace the Rimu tree with a smaller one in the current planting season. This is being carried out under warranty, as the 12-month period is now up.”
.The rimu was removed on Saturday, 13 June, 2026.
Moving mature, established Rimu is a challenging endeavor. Unlike hardy exotics, rimu have dense, shallow lateral root systems and rarely develop a deep taproot. These roots, which extend far beyond the tree’s crown, live almost entirely in the top layers of the soil, making them exceptionally sensitive to compaction and soil disturbance.
Rimu are slow-growing trees, typically growing only 10-20 cm per year in height. It can take 20 years for rimu to bear fruit. These are tiny black seeds that sit on a bright red, fleshy base and are a delicacy for native birds like the kererū and tūī. Rimu trees are extremely long-lived, with lifespans of 600-800 years being common.
So we now look forward to the planting of the (younger and smaller) replacement Rimu at Te Rimutahi and to seeing it establish and thrive, for scores of future generations to enjoy.
Update: The new, smaller replacement Rimu was planted on Wednesday, 24 June. A request has been lodged with Council for the new Rimu to be straightened with the tight and restrictive staking to be modified and improved.
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