title: Ecology and conservation of Alseuosmia quercifolia (Alseuosmiaceae) in the Waikato region, New Zealand

authors: Merrett, M. F.

subjects: Alseuosmia

abstract: The ecology of Alseuosmia quercifolia, a small endemic shrub, was investigated, focussing on its habitat requirements, population dynamics, phenology and reproductive biology, and conservation status. This species occurs most commonly in lowland native forests of the Waikato region of the North Island (north of latitude 38°05'S), but is also found in scattered populations to North Cape. In the Waikato region it typically occupies shady, well-drained, south or south-east facing lower slopes of hills and ranges at altitudes below 400 m. Population structures show considerable variation amongst seven study sites in the Waikato region, with disjunct size classes a reflection of the presence and abundance of introduced browsing mammals. It is a relatively short-lived (less than 50 years), slow-growing species with a fleshy fruit adapted to bird dispersal, but seed dispersal now appears to be primarily by gravity. Flowering occurs early in spring and is synchronous at both individual and population levels, occurring over a 5-week period, with peak flowering during the second and third weeks. While all populations set seed, reproductive output can be negatively affected by persistent browse and by rain during peak flowering. This species is vulnerable because it is highly palatable to introduced mammals and all plants in a population are within browse height. It has relatively narrow habitat specificity, localised distribution, and limited potential to extend its range. We suggest it fulfils the requirements of the category "declining", using the most recent classification of threatened and uncommon plants of New Zealand.

text: Ecology and conservation of Alseuosmia quercifolia (Alseuosmiaceae) in the Waikato region, New Zealand The ecology of Alseuosmia quercifolia, a small endemic shrub, was investigated, focussing on its habitat requirements, population dynamics, phenology and reproductive biology, and conservation status. This species occurs most commonly in lowland native forests of the Waikato region of the North Island (north of latitude 38°05'S), but is also found in scattered populations to North Cape. In the Waikato region it typically occupies shady, well-drained, south or south-east facing lower slopes of hills and ranges at altitudes below 400 m. Population structures show considerable variation amongst seven study sites in the Waikato region, with disjunct size classes a reflection of the presence and abundance of introduced browsing mammals. It is a relatively short-lived (less than 50 years), slow-growing species with a fleshy fruit adapted to bird dispersal, but seed dispersal now appears to be primarily by gravity. Flowering occurs early in spring and is synchronous at both individual and population levels, occurring over a 5-week period, with peak flowering during the second and third weeks. While all populations set seed, reproductive output can be negatively affected by persistent browse and by rain during peak flowering. This species is vulnerable because it is highly palatable to introduced mammals and all plants in a population are within browse height. It has relatively narrow habitat specificity, localised distribution, and limited potential to extend its range. We suggest it fulfils the requirements of the category "declining", using the most recent classification of threatened and uncommon plants of New Zealand.

year: 2002-03-01

title: The Phoenix Prophecy

authors: Williams, Julia

subjects: Young Adult

abstract: When Soraya Merridan wakes from a recurring nightmare, she finds herself drawn to a box of her mother’s belongings. After discovering an antique necklace with a strange stone, Sora accidentally triggers a prophecy and finds herself stranded in Aurelia, a new realm unlike anything she has ever seen. 
Upon her arrival, she meets a young prince and discovers a plague of hellish creatures that threaten the lives of everyone in this strange new world. Torn between Earth and Aurelia, Sora finds herself in the unlikely companionship of the prince and his guard. Together, they must journey to the hidden Temple of Arkosia in search of an ancient being capable of stopping the rising darkness and the threat of the Lord Ruler that comes with it. But things aren’t always what they seem, and when a dark-haired stranger keeps appearing with a message not to trust the prince, Sora is torn as to what to believe. With the fate of an entire world at stake, Sora is determined to make the right choice. 
But is she willing to pay the price?

The Phoenix Prophecy features a strong female character overcoming challenges and internal struggles while simultaneously uncovering her own strengths as she navigates this new world. It takes us on a journey where classic fantasy elements interweave with new ones to create an adventure for both the main character and the reader to enjoy, a world to lose yourself in while not straying entirely from our own. In this novel, I explore aspects of politics and social roles which are often built on real-world elements while presenting them in a world that shows a different view of familiar topics. 
I wanted to write about a heroine who isn’t afraid to dive right into the magic and fight for themselves no matter where it takes them. A strong female character who isn’t afraid to get her hands dirty. In Aurelia the rules are unexpected, it’s a place where readers can feel connected to the main character while also enjoying a little spice of magic.

text: The Phoenix Prophecy When Soraya Merridan wakes from a recurring nightmare, she finds herself drawn to a box of her mother’s belongings. After discovering an antique necklace with a strange stone, Sora accidentally triggers a prophecy and finds herself stranded in Aurelia, a new realm unlike anything she has ever seen. 
Upon her arrival, she meets a young prince and discovers a plague of hellish creatures that threaten the lives of everyone in this strange new world. Torn between Earth and Aurelia, Sora finds herself in the unlikely companionship of the prince and his guard. Together, they must journey to the hidden Temple of Arkosia in search of an ancient being capable of stopping the rising darkness and the threat of the Lord Ruler that comes with it. But things aren’t always what they seem, and when a dark-haired stranger keeps appearing with a message not to trust the prince, Sora is torn as to what to believe. With the fate of an entire world at stake, Sora is determined to make the right choice. 
But is she willing to pay the price?

The Phoenix Prophecy features a strong female character overcoming challenges and internal struggles while simultaneously uncovering her own strengths as she navigates this new world. It takes us on a journey where classic fantasy elements interweave with new ones to create an adventure for both the main character and the reader to enjoy, a world to lose yourself in while not straying entirely from our own. In this novel, I explore aspects of politics and social roles which are often built on real-world elements while presenting them in a world that shows a different view of familiar topics. 
I wanted to write about a heroine who isn’t afraid to dive right into the magic and fight for themselves no matter where it takes them. A strong female character who isn’t afraid to get her hands dirty. In Aurelia the rules are unexpected, it’s a place where readers can feel connected to the main character while also enjoying a little spice of magic.

year: 2022

title: Review of Mareikura-Messengers of Io

authors: Crawford, Terri Ripeka

subjects: Mareikura-Messengers of Io

abstract: Review of Tru Paraha's "Mareikura - Messages of Io", Soundings Theatre, Te Papa Tongarewa, Wellington, 6 June 2008.

text: Review of Mareikura-Messengers of Io Review of Tru Paraha's "Mareikura - Messages of Io", Soundings Theatre, Te Papa Tongarewa, Wellington, 6 June 2008.

year: 2009