Kānuka

Often confused with Mānuka, Kānuka is a pretty special tree in its own right.

The two look very similar but Kānuka will grow in to a much larger tree up to 15m whereas Mānuka remains shrubby. 

The advantage of Kānuka in a revegetation project is that it colonises well and is hardy but also that it grows in to quite a large tree.  Meaning that if second generation species (Tōtara, Kahikatea, Rimu etc) aren't present it can still move the forest forward and provide a good canopy for the future development or planting of those species.

Kānuka loves dry sites so is especially good where planting out steep hillsides that may get quite dry in summer.