Pāhautea

The Pāhautea or Mountain Cedar, scattered over the top of the Pouakai, with their gnarled and twisted branches, appear almost sentient, as if they have stood as guardians of the land for centuries. My mind creates creatures out of their forms as I walk the tracks; they are like hidden inhabitants of the bush, entertaining me on my journey, reminiscent of a magical story from childhood. A seamless blend between the human spirit and nature, this play of the mind connects me with the enchantment of the natural world. These particular creatures were seen diving playfully into the greenery of the treetops as I wandered by.