New Zealand, with its isolation from other lands, and latitudes ranging from the subtropical to subantarctic, has a unique and highly diverse vegetation. Peter Wardle's comprehensive and generously illustrated account of this vegetation provides a wealth of information on its origins, ecology, biogeography and community structure. The volume begins by considering the origins and ecological features of the unique native flora. Also discussed are factors which shape the vegetation, such as landscape, climate, historical events and, not least, human impact. Each of the major categories of vegetation are then described, including communities of both native and naturalised plants and the vegetation of the remote outlying islands of the New Zealand archipelago. Concluding chapters summarise ecophysiological aspects of the vegetation and discuss recent ecological processes such as disturbance, regeneration, invasion and succession. This major work will make an outstanding contribution to the understanding of New Zealand's plant life and will be essential reading for all those with an interest in vegetation, including professional and amateur botanists, ecologists and conservationists.