Photo: Flickr / Bernard Spragg
Listener Kathy Gillard's fantastic version of "The Holly and the Ivy", from the Works NZ Christmas Carol Competition, and sung by the RNZ Concert choir.
The Kauri and the Kowhai (Kathy Gillard, Chch)
The kauri and the kowhai
When they are both full grown
Of all trees that are in the bush
The kauri bears the crown
O the shining of the sun
And the flax scent in the breeze
The flitting of piwakawaka
Sweet birdsong in the trees
The sweet voice of the bellbird
The kokako's plangent cry
Kahikatea's airy height
As she reaches for the sky
O the shining of the sun
And the flax scent in the breeze
The bright glance of the silvereyes
Sweet birdsong in the trees
