Tāne Mahuta is the largest living kauri tree in New Zealand and a very special place in Māori culture. It is known as the Lord of the Forest because, in Māori tradition, Tāne is the god who separated the sky and the earth to bring light into the world. When you walk through the forest to reach it, you already feel something powerful in the air.

Those kauri forests are well-protected, you'll have to clean the soles of your shoes before entering to avoid spreading diseases that could kill the trees.

You can visit on your own, but I recommend joining a guided tour with a Māori guide if you can. They share stories and sing waiata that make the moment even more meaningful.