45 
(v.) The Rata, (Metrosideros robusta,) a tree very closely allied gene- 
rically to the Pohutukawa, is one of the largest of the New Zealand 
forest trees, often attaining a height of 120 feet, of which from 60 to 
80 feet forms its trunk; which is sometimes very bulky,—one having 
been measured which was 54 feet in girth. Unlike the preceding, 
however, it is mostly found inland, at a tolerably high elevation, and is 
pretty general throughout the Island. Its growth is both regular and 
irregular, mainly arising from situation and soil. Its wood is heavy, 
red, close-grained, and durable; and is very valuable to the Wheel- 
wright and to the Ship-builder, on account of its strength and toughness, 
owing to the peculiar twisting of its fibres ; the roots and branches as 
well as the trunk affording excellent materials for naves, timbers, and 
knees. It is also a handsome wood for the purposes of the Cabinet 
Maker ; and will answer well for all uses where Oak and Beech are 
required. 
(vi.) The Aka, (Metrosideros scandens,) although (in bulk) a small 
tree, or climber, may also here be noticed; as it not only belongs to the 
same genus with the two preceding, and to the same sub-section, but is 
also very closely allied to them in its qualities and uses. This plant is 
generally common in all woods, and may be known as a large stout 
climber ascending to the tops of the highest trees, and often hanging 
like loose ropes from them. Like the others of the genus already 
noticed, it is heavy, close-grained, and tough, and is principally used 
for timbers for boats. 
26. The trees which follow, though many are small and scarcely 
timber trees, comprise some which are very useful to the Manufacturer,— 
(i.) The Kowhai, or New Zealand Acacia, (Sophora, or Edwardsia, 
grandiflora, ) is a small tree, sometimes reaching to the height of 30 or 35 
feet. Its wood is hard, and of two or three colours or varieties, varying 
from a bright yellow, in some specimens, to that of a light olive, or a 
dull Indian pink, in others. It is well fitted for the purposes of the 
Cabinet Maker and the Millwright. 
(ii.) The Hinau, ( Hleocarpus dentatus, ) a tree generally common in 
the drier woods in the interior, attains to the height of from 50 to 60 
feet, and 3 feet, or upwards, in diameter. The wood, in general, of this 
tree is inferior, but the crooked parts of the wood, with the knots and 
warty excrescences, have a very beautiful marbled grain, and are there- 
fore valuable to the Cabinet Maker. 

