Pohutukawa Tree

By Crusader1307

The Maori Belief of The Pohutukawa Tree – as being the temporary ''residence'' of the recently deceased – immediately after death. As such, no one was allowed to harm (cut or injure), these Trees – for fear they would either impede a Spirit await His or Her ''journey'' to The Afterlife, or possible bring a Curse about for that person or Clan. Noted for it's bright Red Flowers, (which was the personification of ''Spirit Blood'', anyone so harming a Pohutukawa Tree was put to death.