The New Zealand Plant Conservation Network

Dead/dying plant found in an active geothermal area in Taupo associated with prostrate kanuka

inaka (Dracophyllum subulatum) which is endemic to the Taupo Volcanic Zone. Your image doesn't look dead to me - its often dark red to almost red-black when alive. This is a member of the heath family (Ericaceae). Its very common on pumice country and within frost flats