Pōhutukawa Rescue Headcover

The blazing red flowers of pōhutukawa around Christmas time have earned this tree the title of New Zealand's Christmas tree.

Pōhutukawa and rātā hold a prominent place in Maori mythology. Legends tell of the young Maori warrior, Tawhaki and his attempt to find help in heaven to avenge his father's death. He subsequently fell to earth and the crimson flowers are said to represent his blood.

Possibly the most famous pōhutukawa in Maori legend is a small, wind-beaten tree clinging to the cliff face near Cape Reinga. The 800-year-old tree is reputed to guard the entrance to a sacred cave through which disembodied spirits pass on their way to the next world.

Covered in the iconic pōhutukawa flowers, this Rescue cover is sure to stand out.