[1] Being saprotrophic, H. novae-zealandiae can be observed growing from dead, decaying wood.

[3][4] Hericium novae-zealandiae has a relatively large (10 cm + diameter), white fruiting body, initially described (as Hydnum nova zealandia) as looking somewhat like a cauliflower nearing flowering.

Lacking a pileus or defined stipe, basidiomata are highly and irregularly branched.

Growing from a short, corkish stem, culminating in numerous, densely arranged, fine tips.

[5] The closely related Hericium erinaceus, or lion's mane has been shown to have numerous health benefits including treating dyspepsia, gastric ulcers as well as antitumor and immuno-modulatory activity.