2025 Favourite Plant Vote in a changing climate
Trithuria inconspicua 2024 Favourite Plant Winner, Kai Iwi Lakes. Photo: Dennis GordonFrom the 17th of November till the 14th of December New Zealanders will have a chance to vote for their favourite plant as part of the New Zealand Plant Conservation Networks annual competition.
The vote which has been running since 2002 has celebrated a wide variety of the country’s fantastic flora. From iconic trees like pōhutukawa which took the first crown to rarely seen and highly threatened plants like the tiny aquatic Trithuria inconspicua who claimed the title in 2024.
However, this year’s vote could be seen as a bit of a change in the weather. Instead of nearly 6,000 native species being eligible like in previous years (including lichens as well as plants), NZPCN has decided to restrict the 2025 vote to just 40 species. The criteria? Species that are already classified threatened but whose survival is further compromised by our changing climate.
Pīngao Ficinia spiralis protecting dunes. Photo: Jeremy RolfeSome of these species like the Wakanui woollyhead Craspedia diversicolor literally are at risk of being washed into the sea, while others like the swamp akeake Olearia telmatica could have their wetland homes dry up. Then there are those like pīngao Ficinia spiralis who as much as they are at risk from climate change may also be one of the keys in ensuring our coasts are resilient to change.
“It’s a bit of fun with a serious message” says NZPCN president Jesse Bythell. “Climate change is a huge threat to all our native plants, but it is great to have the opportunity to highlight these that are most under pressure. All while getting some competitive spirit from plant lovers along the way.”
Voting opened on Monday 17th of November and runs until midnight on Sunday 14th of December. To find the full list of candidates and for information on how to vote head to the candidate page and follow the instructions.
Posted: 18/11/2025