Ngā Rauropi Whakaoranga

Before 1872, exported only small quantities. In 1877, 11,318 pounds sterling for 220 tons. (approx. 44 pounds sterling per ton). Prized in Chinese community as a medicine (decoction to purify blood), used on fast days with vermicelli and bean curd. Soups. Sold for 10 1/2d per lb. Collector paid 1d per lb. Hirneola auricula-judae (Jew"s ear, pinkish tint) rare compared with H. polytricha (greyish, cinereous)