The kahukura (red admiral) was announced NZ’s Bug of the year in 2024. Its name means “red cloak” and it is endemic to New Zealand.
Kawakawa is not a food source for the Kahukura. (Those sweet, heart-shaped leaves are “shot to pieces” by the kawakawa Looper moth).
The kawakawa is known for its healing attributes. From teas to poultices —to soothing digestive upsets, curing toothache to assisting wound repair.
