Planting native plants in frost-prone and cold regions of New Zealand requires careful planning and species selection. Inland valleys, elevated sites, and southern regions experience regular winter frosts, snow, and prolonged cold, which can damage unsuitable plants—especially during establishment.
Fortunately, many NZ native plants have evolved in alpine and inland environments and are well adapted to freezing temperatures, cold winds, and harsh soils. This guide explores the best frost-hardy NZ native trees, shrubs, and groundcovers, with practical product-style information to help you choose plants that will survive and thrive.
Frost impacts young native plants most severely in their first 1–2 years. Common issues include:
Root freezing in poorly drained soils
Leaf scorch from cold winds
Frost heave lifting plants out of the ground
Cold inland regions such as Central Otago, inland Canterbury, the Mackenzie Basin, Southland, and the central North Island are especially vulnerable to these effects.
Even in frost-prone areas, microclimates matter. North-facing slopes, sheltered gullies, and areas near existing vegetation experience reduced frost severity. Understanding these subtle differences allows less hardy natives to be planted in sheltered spots while reserving exposed areas for the toughest species.
Kānuka is one of the most reliable frost-hardy native trees in New Zealand. It tolerates heavy frost, snow, wind, and poor soils, and establishes quickly. Its strong root system stabilises soil and improves conditions for slower-growing species. As a plant product, kānuka is ideal for shelterbelts, restoration planting, erosion control, and nurse cropping in cold, exposed environments.
Snow tōtara is a low-growing, alpine podocarp adapted to extreme frost, snow cover, and high-altitude conditions. Its compact form and slow growth make it suitable for cold, exposed sites where larger trees struggle. As a product, it is often used in alpine restoration and specialist landscapes, offering exceptional cold tolerance and longevity.
Southern rātā is more frost tolerant than northern Metrosideros species and naturally occurs in cooler, southern forests. It tolerates frost once established, particularly in sheltered inland or southern coastal areas. As a product, it provides long-term canopy cover, biodiversity value, and iconic form, making it suitable for cold-climate restoration projects.
Sophora microphylla is one of the most frost-tolerant kōwhai species, well suited to cold gardens and landscapes. Its smaller leaves and flexible branching reduce frost damage, while deep roots provide drought tolerance. As a product, kōwhai offers both ornamental appeal and ecological value, attracting native birds in spring.
Coprosma propinqua is exceptionally hardy, tolerating repeated frosts, dry soils, and wind exposure. It is widely used in cold-climate planting for hedging, infill planting, shelter, and restoration margins, requiring minimal maintenance once established.
Korokia cotoneaster is naturally adapted to inland and alpine environments. It withstands extreme cold, wind, and drought, making it a premium shrub for exposed and frost-prone sites, including slopes and restoration areas.
Carex buchananii is well suited to cold climates and inland gardens, tolerating frost and cold winds with ease. Its distinctive upright, copper-toned foliage adds visual interest in winter when many plants are dormant. As a product, it is commonly used in amenity landscapes and structured garden designs in frost-prone areas. It performs best in well-drained soils and is particularly valuable where both frost tolerance and ornamental appeal are required.
Scleranthus biflorus is a compact, alpine native groundcover that is exceptionally well adapted to extreme cold, heavy frost, and snow-prone environments. Naturally found in high-altitude and inland regions of New Zealand, this species forms dense, cushion-like mounds that sit close to the ground, helping protect both the plant and surrounding soil from freezing temperatures and harsh winds. Its tight growth habit reduces moisture loss and minimises frost damage, making it one of the most cold-tolerant native groundcovers available
Growth in cold regions is slower and more root-focused during early years. This is normal and reflects healthy establishment rather than poor performance. Frost-hardy natives often show strong growth once established.
What are the best native plants for frost-prone areas in NZ?
Kānuka, Podocarpus Nivalis, kōwhai (Sophora microphylla), Coprosma propinqua, Corokia cotoneaster, and Scleranthus Biflorus are among the most frost-tolerant NZ natives.
Do native plants need protection from frost?
Young plants benefit from mulch, shelter, and plant guards during their first winters, especially in inland or elevated areas.
Can native plants survive snow?
Many frost-hardy NZ natives tolerate snow once established, particularly inland and alpine species.
