Tāne Mahuta
New Zealand's largest known kauri, standing about 51 metres tall with a trunk girth of nearly 14 metres. Estimated to be more than a thousand years old, it is revered by Māori as a forest deity.
In Māori mythology, Tāne Mahuta is the god of forests and birds, and this kauri is named after him. It is the largest known kauri in New Zealand, standing about 51 metres tall with a trunk girth of about 13.8 metres. Its age is estimated at 1,250 to 2,500 years. It stands beside State Highway 12, about five minutes' walk along a boardwalk from the car park. At dusk you can join the Waipoua Forest night walk led by local Māori guides, listening to legends and songs beneath the ancient trees. On a lucky night you may even hear the call of a kiwi. Advance booking is required. The visit is free. Clean your shoes at the disinfection station on entry and exit, and keep to the boardwalks to prevent the spread of kauri dieback. Break-ins have occurred at the car park, so don't leave valuables in your car.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Te Matua Ngahere
- Opononi & Omapere
- Trounson Kauri Park
- Arai te Uru Heritage Walk
- Koutu Boulders
- Hokianga North Head Sand Dunes
- Rawene
- Kai Iwi Lakes