Discover the unique plants that thrive in our dynamic coastal environments
New Zealand’s native coastal plants are specially adapted to withstand salt spray, wind, and shifting sands. They play a crucial role in stabilizing dunes, protecting shorelines, and providing habitat for wildlife. Popular species include Spinifex sericeus (Kōwhangatara), Ficinia spiralis (Pīngao), and Euphorbia glauca (Shore Spurge). These plants are ideal for coastal gardens, offering resilience, low maintenance, and the ability to thrive in challenging conditions while supporting native biodiversity.
Adaptation and resilience at the edge of the sea
New Zealand's 15,000 kilometers of coastline host unique plant communities adapted to some of the most challenging growing conditions on Earth. From sandy beaches and dunes to rocky shores and coastal cliffs, these habitats demand special adaptations to withstand salt spray, strong winds, shifting substrates, and limited freshwater.
Coastal plants play a crucial ecological role in stabilizing dunes, preventing erosion, and creating habitat for native wildlife. Many of these specialist species have developed fascinating survival strategies, including succulent leaves to store water, extensive root systems, and low-growing habits to avoid wind damage.
Unfortunately, coastal environments are under significant pressure from development, invasive species, and climate change. Many of New Zealand's coastal plants are now threatened, making their conservation a priority.
Low-growing, divaricating coastal shrub with wire-like branches and blue berries. Excellent for dune stabilization and coastal restoration projects.
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Pimelea villosa
Rare, sand-binding shrub endemic to New Zealand's coastal dunes.
Learn moreProtecting our coastal botanical heritage
New Zealand's coastal plant communities are among our most threatened ecosystems. Development pressure, invasive weeds like marram grass, vehicle damage, and rising sea levels all pose significant challenges to these specialized plants.
Restoration projects along the coast are having success in reestablishing native dune systems. By planting species like pingao and spinifex, conservationists are rebuilding natural coastal defenses while preserving biodiversity.
You can help by choosing native coastal species for seaside gardens, staying on designated paths in dune areas, and supporting local dune restoration initiatives.
