Exploring the Cultural Significance of the Mānuka Tree

While Mānuka honey enjoys global fame for its remarkable properties, the story of the Mānuka tree runs much deeper in the native roots of New Zealand.

Beyond its role as the source of this “liquid gold”, the Mānuka tree holds a significant place in Māori culture, history and the country’s unique identity - which is what brings such significant value to Mānuka honey as a product. 

Today, we’ll delve into the fascinating cultural connections between New Zealand and the versatile Mānuka tree - responsible for producing the ingredients to PURITI’s world class honey products. 

Mānuka in Māori Tradition

For indigenous Māori, the Mānuka tree has been an invaluable treasure for centuries as it’s been woven deeply into their daily lives and spiritual practices. This versatile tree, known formally as “Leptospermum scoparium” provided a wealth of resources, showcasing the interconnectedness of Māori and the natural world. 

In terms of traditional medicine, the Māori harnessed Mānuka’s properties in numerous ways. According to studies, infusions made with the leaves were used to reduce fevers and treat stomach and urinary problems. Gum produced from the tree was used as a moisturiser for burns, and to ease coughing. Meanwhile, decoctions from the bark were used as a sedative, a mouthwash and to treat diarrhoea and fever. 

Beyond its value for wellbeing, Mānuka also played a crucial role in practical applications. Its strong and durable wood  was expertly crafted into tools, weapons and even building materials for houses. The bark, when stripped and shaped, became containers for storing food and water while the inner bark, known for its waterproof nature, was ingeniously used as a protective layer for roofing. 

Furthermore, the Māori held a deeply spiritual appreciation for the Mānuka tree, likely featuring it in rituals and ceremonies. 

In Māori folklore, the Mānuka tea tree was considered a gift from the gods - containing healing powers to protect the people. The honey produced from its nectar was believed to carry the same divine properties and was thought capable of curing illnesses and warding off evil spirits.

This holistic approach to utilizing the Mānuka tree highlights the profound respect Māori held for the natural world and their understanding of its intricate balance. 

Mānuka Woven Into New Zealand’s Identity

The Mānuka tree isn’t just a botanical specimen - it’s deeply intertwined with New Zealand’s national identity - embodying the very essence of the country’s natural beauty, resilience and cultural heritage. 

Native to New Zealand, early European settlers were quick to pick up on the knowledge founded by the Māori and used the leaves to make tea and even brew beer. They extracted oil from the leaves for medicinal and cosmetic purposes and the wood of the tree was used for tools and furniture. 

These days, the sight of Mānuka flowers - with its  delicate white and pink flowers blooming across diverse landscapes - has become an iconic representation of the country’s natural beauty. These blossoms, often captured in photographs and artwork, evoke a sense of serenity and connection to the land - resonating deeply with Kiwis and visitors alike. 

It’s due to this iconic nature of the Mānuka plant that it now sits at the centre of modern New Zealand society - playing a vital role in environmental conservation, cultural revival and even artistic inspiration. 

The Mānuka tree has become the focal point for protecting and cultivating the environment through recognition of the vital role that Mānuka plays in the ecosystem. 

In 2019,  an experiment was carried out by the Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR) to determine whether Mānuka trees can reduce nitrate run-off from farms entering the shores of a lake in the Waikato. Results confirmed that the root system of the tree was capable of reducing both pathogens and nitrates.

There’s been increased movements to protect and restore Mānuka forests - these movements have been driven by the understanding that these forests provide essential habitat for a variety of native birds and insects, contributing to the overall biodiversity and health of the New Zealand environment. 

Government initiatives in this space include the National Policy Statement for Indigenous Biodiversity - introduced in 2023 in an effort to require local councils to actively protect and enhance indigenous biodiversity - including Mānuka plants. 

The Mānuka plant was also one of the key species in many projects of the Government’s  One Billion Trees programme, allocating funding to support native forest restoration. 

Furthermore, there’s been a resurgence of interest in traditional Māori knowledge surrounding the Mānuka tree. This knowledge, passed down orally through generations, encompasses a deep understanding of the tree’s properties and uses for wellbeing, tools and spiritual practices. 

Today, communities and organisations are actively working to understand and revitalise these traditions,  incorporating them into contemporary practices such as natural health remedies and ecological restoration projects. This cultural revival not only strengthens the connection between Māori and their heritage, but also provides valuable insights for creating a more sustainable and harmonious relationship with the natural world. 

The Mānuka tree also serves as a powerful muse for artists, writers, and musicians. Its beauty, resilience, and cultural significance has inspired creative expressions in a variety of forms. 

Painters capture the delicate beauty of Mānuka blossoms on canvas, while writers weave tales of its strength and connection to the land. Musicians find inspiration in the rustling leaves and the humming of bees amongst the Mānuka flowers, composing songs that evoke the spirit of New Zealand. 

This artistic engagement further reinforces the Mānuka tree's place in New Zealand's identity, ensuring its story continues to be told and celebrated for generations to come.

Mānuka: A Slice of Culturally Significant Kiwi Nature

The Mānuka tree is far more than just a source of the famous honey that bears its name, it represents a link between the country’s past, present and likely its future. 

For the Māori people, it was considered a treasure for centuries. They used it for medicinal purposes, tools and shelter - even using it within spiritual contexts. This intimate knowledge and respect for the Mānuka tree speaks volumes about their attitude towards the plant - it wasn’t a resource to be exploited, but a living entity to be protected. 

Today, the Mānuka tree continues to inspire and connect people to the land. Conservation efforts continue to preserve and restore Mānuka forests, recognising their vital role in biodiversity and ecosystem health. 

By appreciating the cultural significance of the Mānuka tree, we gain a deeper understanding of New Zealand’s unique story. It’s one of resilience, resourcefulness and a deep connection to the natural world.