To the Maoris, especially the children, the flesh of the berries was a great treat. The most important thing for us to remember about this tree is that the kernel in the berry (when fresh or raw) contains a virulent alkaloid poison, which brings on convulsions of the limbs which

The adult tree is a forest giant.......... The shiny black seeds are carried in a fleshy scarlet cup. When these are in full colour, the tree is a glorious sight. The leaves were used in vapour baths (Goldie), and a decoction of them was drunk for urinary complaints. The bark wa

It was the tohunga, the priestly scholar, who carried in his head, and passed on to his pupils, the lineage of the chief, and tribal history. He could repeat these back through hundreds of years,

Both men and women were of fine physique and handsome features — they were people of high intelligence, courage and initiative, with a great love and appreciation of nature; because of these attributes they evolved into a nation of orators, singers, carvers of great skill, weaver