AMERICAN LUMBER IN FOREIGN MARKETS. 109 



the same time it is scarcely, if at all, inferior to it in durability. The 

 general unanimity of opinion in its favor is remarkable, some consider- 

 ing it superior to kauri for general purposes, but this opinion is only 

 found where totara is cheaper and more plentiful than kauri. 



For piles for marine wharves and bridges, etc., it is regarded by 

 those who have used it as one of the most valuable timbers known. In 

 addition to its great durability, it has the power of resisting the attacks 

 of teredo for a considerable period, especially if driven with the bark 

 intact. It is said, and I believe truly, that trees felled during the 

 growing season will resist the attacks of teredo for a longer period than 

 those felled during the winter months. In some quarters this advan- 

 tage is questioned, though it is positively stated by many who have had 

 long experience in this respect that totaro piles driven with the bark 

 on are absolutely free from perforation by teredines while the bark 

 remains intact. The heart of totara will resist the teredo still longer. 

 It frequently happens that when totara piles are driven the sap-wood 

 is attacked and thoroughly perforated, after which the teredo dies, 

 being unable to make any impression on the heartwood until it has 

 been subjected for a longer period to the action of the sea water, when 

 the mollusk resumes possession, and the destruction of that portion of 

 the wood exposed to its ravages is a mere matter of time. 



It may be fairly estimated that kauri and totara afford more than 

 two-thirds of the indigenous timber employed for buildings and con- 

 structive works in the colony. Both are extensively used for general 

 building purposes and exhibit practically the same amount of durabil- 

 ity; kauri, however, is more easily worked and takes a higher finish. 



Rimu (red pine). A tree from 40 to 80 feet high; trunk, 3 to 5 

 feet in diameter. It is found throughout the colony, but in greater 

 abundance in the Middle Island and in the southern part of the North 

 Island. It is better adapted for housebuilding purposes than for con- 

 structive works. Whenever it has been exposed to the action of the 

 weather, except in housebuilding, it has given no satisfaction. Although 

 it can not be considered a suitable timber for outside work, its great 

 strength and the facility with which straight logs of large dimensions 

 can be obtained, enable it to be used with advantage for heavy beams, 

 girders, etc., under cover. 



Kaliikatea (white pine). This tree grows from 50 to 100 feet high 

 and upwards, with trunk 2 to 4 or even 5 feet in diameter. It is found 

 in nearly all the forests of the colony, but in greater abundance in 

 swampy districts. It is not regarded as being of any great value, 

 especially for outdoor work, but when used inside, if kept free from 

 contact with the earth and in a perfectly dry situation, it lasts fairly 

 well. 



Matai (black pine). Found throughout the colony, but not in any 

 considerable quantities in some portions of the North Island. It 

 usually attains a height of from 50 to 70 feet, with the trunk from 2 to 



