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The mild climates near the coasts favour the growth of
a number of species of trees and can result in the establishment
of forests that can be markedly different from the more
common podocarp - broadleaf forests. Coastal forests are
best developed along the coasts of Northland and outlying
islands. There the dominant species is pohutukawa, which
in summer is also the most spectacular with its bright
red flowers. Other major species include pururi, karaka,
kohekohe, and taraire. Nikau palms can be common and even
form nearly pure groves in shaded valleys, adding a distinct
tropical touch to the forest's character. This is especially
well represented in the forests of the north-west coast
of the South Island, from Punakaiki to Karamea and beyond.
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