Come up for ANCIENT kauri

35°43'28.235''S 173°38'7.742''E

Trounson Kauri Park

Marvel at these majestic giants

Kaipara has a rich kauri heritage, once home to vast forests that fuelled New Zealand’s timber and gum industries. The towering kauri trees were highly valued for shipbuilding and construction, with gum diggers shaping the region’s history. Today, you can experience these giants at Trounson Kauri Park, a stunning native forest sanctuary, or visit the Kai Iwi Lakes’ walking tracks, where ancient kauri stand tall. Nearby Waipoua Forest is home to Tāne Mahuta, New Zealand’s largest kauri, a must-see natural wonder.

Man and young boy walking hand-in-hand on a narrow wooden boardwalk through a lush green forest with dense foliage

HIGHLIGHTS

trounson kauri park

Trounson Kauri Park, founded in 1921 by farmer James Trounson, is a protected kauri forest dedicated to conservation. Families can enjoy easy walking tracks, towering ancient kauri, and night kiwi-spotting tours. It’s a magical outdoor experience, perfect for kids to explore nature and native wildlife.

A wooden pathway winding through a dense tropical rainforest with tall trees and lush green foliage.

Forest Walks

Trounson Kauri Park offers a 1.7 km loop walk through a stunning kauri forest, with boardwalks protecting ancient trees. Guided night walks reveal kiwi, glowworms, and native wildlife, making it a must-visit for families, nature lovers and conservation enthusiasts.

Signboard for Trounson Kauri Park showing trail distances and amenities, with surrounding trees and a wooden fence.

Conservation and Protection

The Department of Conservation (DoC) protects Trounson Kauri Park through pest control, kauri dieback prevention and habitat restoration. Their work supports native birdlife, including kiwi, safeguards ancient kauri trees, and ensures this mainland island sanctuary remains a thriving ecosystem for future generations.

Close-up of a brown hedgehog on grass and dried plants.

Native Fauna

This protected sanctuary offers a rare chance to see New Zealand’s native wildlife up close. If you’re really lucky, you may spot North Island brown kiwi, tūī, pīwakawaka and morepork, along with forest skinks, green geckos, wētā and glowworms. Try a night walk for a memorable experience and to increase your chances of spotting some of this native New Zealand fauna.