T.E.R:R.A.I.N - Taranaki Educational Resource: Research, Analysis and Information Network

Nematoceras (Corybas) iridescens

Nematoceras iridescens Pale is a  spider orchid and is a terrestrial tuberous herb which is 3 to 6cm high when in flower. It has a single green leaf.  the flower is structurally the same as normal N iridescens, but the labellum lacks the very dark colouring. Areas of the labellum are translucent and lacking in any pigmentation. Flowers open red, but usually darken as they mature. Flowers remain open for several weeks.
They grow on very wet moss-covered banks and favours papa clay, limestone, and calcareous siltstone banks.So fare recorded from Taranaki, Wanganui, and the Rimutaka's.

Photographed late July 

Bank of  Nematoceras (Corybas) iridescens  some in flower early August

Photo below are of a spider orchid with a spider nest inside. 
They  are called spider orchids becauseof their long spidery perianth segments.