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Story: Dune lands

Pīngao

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Pīngao

Pīngao (Desmoschoenus spiralis) is an endemic sand-binding plant. The shape of dunes is influenced by the vegetation growing on them. Dunes with pīngao tend to have a low, regular profile, while dunes planted with introduced marram grass (Ammophila arenaria) are higher and have an irregular shape.

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Department of Conservation

Reference: 10053671

by Ross Henderson

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How to cite this page

Carl Walrond, Dune lands – Dune lands today, Te Ara – the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, https://teara.govt.nz/en/photograph/14055/pingao (accessed 4 June 2026).

Story by Carl Walrond, published 1 March 2009.