The lowest reaches of an estuary are covered by the sea for all or most of the tidal cycle. Seagrass (at left) is the only plant that can withstand such long immersion in sea water. Mangrove grows further up the shore. Salt meadows, rushes and shore ribbonwood grow on the highest reaches. Beyond the level of tidal influence a coastal vegetation of flax and cabbage tree is common, especially lining the edges of freshwater streams.
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Te Ara - The Encyclopedia of New Zealand
Artwork by Bruce Mahalski
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