The Big Tree In Peel Forest

Not far from Arundel is Peel Forest, another DOC reserve, protecting an ancient stand of native trees. (Much of New Zealand, like everywhere else, was logged to near extinction in the latter 19th century). The place felt quite buggy (rain forest?), and we had misplaced our field guide to Gondwana flora (look it up), so we contented ourselves with a short walk to see the largest tree still standing on the South Island, an immense Totara.

It is known scientifically as "Big Tree"

Vicki stands for scale

Not all that tall, actually

Informative signage

Environs

The South Island has any number of deer and elk ranches; they
are raised for export of venison and elk meat (elkison?) to
Germany, where gamey meat is apparently prized; we passed dozens
of such ranches and here found one herd of elk close enough to shoot,
so to speak; in Montana, a scene like this would stop hearts