Tāne Mahuta is the largest known kauri tree in New Zealand, located in the Waipoua Forest, sacred in Māori culture and revered as Lord of the Forest. The giant tree is over 2,000 years old, standing over 50 metres tall and 4.5 metres wide. Large kauri trees like this one once covered the upper North Island, but with colonial logging practices, much of the forest has been cleared and only a few ancient trees remain. The Waipoua and surrounding forests make up the largest area of remaining native forest in Northland.

From the carpark on SH12, there is a short board walk path and viewing deck to Tāne Mahuta.

Remember: Treat the sacred forest with respect, stay on marked paths and follow any signage.

Personal tip: To learn more about kauri trees, and the history of logging in Northland, visit the Kauri Museum in Matakohe, a short detour from SH12.

Pronunciation: Tāne Mahuta: TAA-neh  maa-hoo-taa

Waipoua: wai-poe-aa