Frequently Asked Questions
Is this product safe to take through CUSTOMS?
YES, our products have been heat treated and kiln dried to ensure that they are moisture and pest free and is completely safe to take through customs. It is important that you declare this product at customs.
Is this product natural?
YES, this product is 100% natural wood from the Black Mamaku tree fern. The beauty of nature found in these patterns is captured by the controlled curing process which reveals the colouring and texture you now see in our products.
What is Ponga?
Ponga is the Maori word for tree fern. Tree ferns were around on this earth long before any of the flowering plants had evolved and those that are in our bush today are the successful survivors from prehistoric times that have been able to compete for light and space with flowering plants.
Our tallest and most magnificent is the black ponga or “Mamaku”, Cyathea Medularis. It grows to 20 metres high with a graceful umbrella of fronds spreading way up in the canopy. Beneath the outer bark, which is exceptionally hard, is found the multi coloured patterns of horseshoe shaped scars which each frond leaves as it grows, then dies and falls after about 2 years. In the larger specimens individual fronds may be as long as 6 metres and up to 2 metres across.
Is this product water proof?
This natural timber is not waterproof. However, products that are used as vases are fitted with plastic inserts to enable water to be safely used.
***NEW FEATURE***
We have now added a new feature to all waterproof liners, (both large and small). Not only have we widened the receptical to hold more water, we have also added a handy built in candle holding shelf, so vases fitted with liners also can be used to hold and display candles (large size) or tealights (small size).
How do you care for this product?
Easy, just as you would care for any other indoor wooden product. The product needs to be kept dust and moisture free and out of direct sunlight. This product does not require oiling, polishing or the use of any furnishing creams.
How long will this product last?
Provided this product is kept away from moisture and direct sunlight, the life span is indefinite. We have product which was first developed in 1969 and is still going strong today!
Is this product environmentally sustainable?
YES, Black Mamaku is an abundant, native resource which is selectively harvested from private bush lots. We use only regenerative and renewable resources and as such our product is ecologically & environmentally sustainable.
