The Growth and Status of the Phormium Tenax Industry of New Zealand

Abstract

A GRICULTURE and agricultural production form the backbone of the New Zealand export economy. Three commodities wool, meat, and dairy produce-contributed over 86 per cent to the total value of exports from New Zealand in 1963. Of the three, wool was the single most important commodity, accounting for more than 34.6 per cent of the national export value.' In spite of the preeminent position which wool holds in the economy of New Zealand at the present time, competition between this natural animal fibre and many synthetic fibres is intensifying. A second natural fibre producing industry has, at different stages in the history of New Zealand, played a vital role in the general economy and livelihood of the nation. This is the Phormium tenax (New Zealand flax) industry which, while no longer playing a leading part in the national economy, still makes an important contribution to the wide range of commodities essential to a young and expanding nation, and it helps to reduce expenditure of overseas funds. In pre-European times flax formed an important part of the Maori economy. With the advent of the Europeans, Phormium became the chief item of barter. The l\Iaoris could use it to