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kaiwhiria

A Maori name for a native New Zealand climbing plant (likely Parsonsia heterophylla, the NZ jasmine or akakura), the word deriving from 'kai' (to eat, or agent prefix) and 'whiri' (to braid/twist), describing the plant's twining habit.

ˌkiwɛˈhɪɹiə44 viewsLast reviewed Jun 29, 2026+ Add a definition
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#1·May 3, 2026Globalcasual

A Maori name for a native New Zealand climbing plant (likely Parsonsia heterophylla, the NZ jasmine or akakura), the word deriving from 'kai' (to eat, or agent prefix) and 'whiri' (to braid/twist), describing the plant's twining habit. Used in traditional Maori practice and now recognised in New Zealand botanical literature.

The kaiwhiria had wound itself up through the canopy, its small white flowers scenting the bush track in summer.
Source: Slangora editorial
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#2·Apr 27, 2026

(NZ) , a climbing plant endemic to New Zealand.

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