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Dye  Hair  Lighting  Resin  Shelterbelt  Soil stabilization  Wood

Agroforestry Uses: Tropical cyclones occur at periodic intervals in all parts of its range. Pacific kauri has an ability to withstand strong winds thereby acting as a wind break or barrier. In certain situations it is suited as boundary marker, due to size and longevity[ 303 ]. The species is suitable for soil protection and binding in areas where long term stabilization of less stable soil profiles is needed. It has spreading root systems that help stabilize soils on ridges and slopes[ 303 ]. The tree is mainly suitable as a long term top storey tree for more shade tolerant understory crops; however, wide-spaced plantings of less dense forms may provide light shade for a wider variety of crops[ 303 ]. Other Uses A resin, called 'resin of Fiji', is obtained from the trunk[ 46 ]. The resin, produced from the living inner bark, was an important component of many varnishes and is still used mixed with synthetics. Commercial export of the resin was formerly practiced in Fiji but was prohibited in 1941, as no method could be found for tapping an economic yield of gum without endangering the life of the tree[ 312 ]. The resin is traditionally used as canoe caulk, and the resin soot was used for tattoos[ 312 ]. The resin has also been used for glazing pots[ 312 ]. The resin has also been used for lighting and torches[ 312 ]. Smoke residues of the burnt resin were traditionally used as a dye for the hair[ 303 ]. The heartwood is pale cream to gold brown; the sapwood straw yellow to pale brown. The wood is finely grained, lustrous, uniform and easily worked. Damage from pinhole borers may occur in standing trees, while drywood termites and Anobium borers may cause damage in service. The wood is readily kiln dried with a medium shrinkage value. In service the timber is very stable. It is suitable for a wide range of end-uses including laboratory bench tops, vats, sauna baths, battery separators, weatherboards, bowls, novelties, handles, furniture, veneer, and boat building[ 303 , 312 ]. It has good peeling and gluing properties and is highly sought after for surface veneer[ 312 ]. Its finely grained, pale, easily worked, and uniform timber is of major commercial importance with various high value end-uses, including furniture, handicrafts, veneer, boat building, light construction, and panelling[ 312 ].

Special Uses

Food Forest