In this study, terricolous bryophytes and bryophyte communities of New Zealand primary temperate rain forests are examined, analysing community structure, adaptations, adaptive strategies and divergence patterns. Relevés according to the Braun-Blanquet methods were carried out in forest plots located at ~ 200 m intervals in seven transects on the South and North Islands, extending from lowland to subalpine altitudes (Haast Pass, Franz-Josef-Glacier, St Amaud, Karamea, Mt Ruapehu, Urewera I and II).