What is "podocarpus totara"

Totara \To"ta*ra\, n. [Maori.] A coniferous tree ( Podocarpus totara), next to the kauri the most valuable timber tree of New Zealand. Its hard reddish wood is used for furniture and building, esp. in wharves, bridges, etc. Also mahogany pine.

Podocarpus totara (tōtara) is a species of podocarp tree endemic to New Zealand. It grows throughout the North Island and northeastern South Island in lowland, montane and lower subalpine forest at elevations of up to 600 m.

Tōtara is commonly found in lowland areas where the soil is fertile and well drained.