Native Climbers of New Zealand

Versatile vines and creepers for vertical interest in gardens and landscapes

About New Zealand Native Climbing Plants

New Zealand native climbers, or lianes, are an important part of forest and shrubland ecosystems. They use other plants for support, allowing them to reach sunlight and create complex habitats for birds and insects. Notable species include Muehlenbeckia complexa (Pohuehue), Parsonsia heterophylla (Kaihua), and Metrosideros perforata (White Rātā). These plants are valued in gardens for their ability to cover fences, trellises, and walls, and are often used in ecological restoration to increase biodiversity and provide food and shelter for native fauna.

Explore Our Native Climbing Plants

Northern Rātā (Metrosideros robusta)

Northern Rātā

Metrosideros robusta

Starting life as an epiphyte, this climber eventually becomes a massive forest tree with red flowers.

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Pōhuehue (Muehlenbeckia complexa)

Pōhuehue

Muehlenbeckia complexa

A versatile small-leaved wire vine perfect for covering walls or as a groundcover.

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Puawhananga (Clematis paniculata)

Puawhananga

Clematis paniculata

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Supplejack (Ripogonum scandens)

Supplejack

Ripogonum scandens

A vigorous forest vine forming dense tangles with distinctive red berries.

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Kōhia (Passiflora tetrandra)

Kōhia

Passiflora tetrandra

New Zealand's native passion vine with fascinating flowers and orange seed pods.

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New Zealand Jasmine (Parsonsia heterophylla)

Kaihua

Parsonsia heterophylla

A woody climber with variable leaves and sweet-scented yellowish flowers.

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Bush Lawyer (Rubus cissoides)

Bush Lawyer

Rubus cissoides

Vigorous native climbing plant with prickly stems and edible red berries.

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White Rātā (Metrosideros perforata)

White Rātā

Metrosideros perforata

Climbing vine with white flowers, found in forests throughout New Zealand.

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Growing Native Climbers in Your Garden

Native climbers can add vertical interest and habitat value to your garden. Most prefer well-draining soil and some form of support structure. Consider the ultimate size and vigor of your chosen species when planning - some like Supplejack can become quite substantial over time.

Many native climbers attract birds with their flowers or berries, making them excellent choices for wildlife-friendly gardens.

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Learn more about vigorous native climbers like Bush lawyer (Rubus cissoides) for edible berries and habitat value.