They are the main pollinators of flax, kowhai, kaka beak and some other plants. The gorge itself is filled with native bush, including kowhai, kanuka, and other species. Native - Kowhai, rangiora, mahoe, tauhinu, tarata, "Coprosma rotundifolia", and manuka. Water from the mountain feeds the Clarence, Hapuku and Kowhai Rivers. Te Kowhai Aerodrome is situated near the township. The eldest of six children, he was initially educated at Te Kowhai School. They are Kowhai, Matai, Rimu, and Totara which are named after native New Zealand trees. The ranges contain the Kowhai Valley and Shearwater Stream Important Bird Area. Waikowhai means Kowhai by the water in Maori.