Maori name for a New Zealand tree, Myoporum laetum, Forst.; generally corrupted into Kaio, in South Island.
1873. `Catalogue of Vienna Exhibition':
«Ngaio: wood light, white and tough, used for gun-stocks.»
1876. J. C. Crawford, `Transactions of New ZealandInstitute,' vol. ix. art. xiv. p. 206:
«A common New Zealand shrub, or tree, which may be madeuseful for shelter, viz. the Ngaio.»
1880. W. Colenso, `Transactions of New Zealand Institute,'vol. xiii. art. i. p. 33:
«The fruits of several species of Rubus, and of the Ngaio( Myoporum laetum), were also eaten, especially bychildren.»
1892. `Otago Witness,' Nov. 3, `Native Trees':
« Myoporum Laetum (Ngaio). This is generally called kioby colonists. It is a very rapid-growing tree for the firstfive or six years after it has been planted. They are veryhardy, and like the sea air. I saw these trees growing atSt. Kilda, near Melbourne, thirty years ago.»