Discover Trounson Kauri Park
Trounson Kauri Park, located on the Kauri Coast of Northland, spans 473 hectares and is a testament to New Zealand's commitment to preserving its natural heritage. Gifted to the public by early settler James Trounson in 1921, the park protects one of the region's few remaining ancient kauri forests. It is notable for being the first "mainland island" with a strong focus on pest control to support the reestablishment of native bird species, despite not being fenced.
Exploring the Ancient Kauri Forest
The park offers an easy 40-minute loop walk, much of which is on a boardwalk, allowing you to immerse yourself in the majesty of mature kauri trees. Among these are the Four Sisters, a pair of twin trees standing close together. The oldest tree in the park is approximately 1,200 years old, younger than the famous Tāne Mahuta and Te Matua Ngahere in nearby Waipoua Forest, yet still impressive. A unique aspect of the walk is the presence of giant fallen kauri, which create gaps in the dense canopy, allowing younger trees to vie for sunlight and space.
Conservation Efforts and Challenges
While walking through the park, you may notice a few large trees affected by kauri dieback disease. Fortunately, the impact of this disease is well understood, and iiwi-led programmes effectively manage the risks to the wider forest, ensuring the health and longevity of this precious ecosystem.
How to Get There
To visit Trounson Kauri Park, drive north from Dargaville on State Highway 12 for 32 km, then turn onto Trounson Park Road. Follow this road to reach the park entrance and campground. From the car park, a footbridge leads you into a grassed area with an informative visitor centre.
After exploring Trounson Kauri Park, take a short drive northwest to Waipoua Forest via State Highway 12. Other nearby places to visit, outside the kauri forests, include Kai Iwi Lakes, Omamari, Aranga Beach, Maunganui Bluff, Waiotemarama Waterfall and Waimamaku Beach.
