Kauri
Kauri is coniferous that can grow to around 50-60 metres in height with a trunk diameter of 4-5 metres. The tree has a straight trunk and smooth bark with a distinctive branching pattern.
What to know before you plant
The essentials — how big it gets, how fast it grows, and where it sits in the forest.
Mature height (m)
Mature spread (m)
Successional stage
Form
Mature DBH (cm)
Description
Kauri is coniferous that can grow to around 50-60 metres in height with a trunk diameter of 4-5 metres. The tree has a straight trunk and smooth bark with a distinctive branching pattern. It is an evergreen tree with glossy needle-like leaves arranged spirally on the branch.
Habitat
Kauri is native to northern New Zealand, mainly Northland, Auckland and Waikato. It thrives in well-drained soils and is commonly found in mixed and regenerating forests.
Cultural Importance
Kauri is a significant Māori symbol of strength, resilience and spirituality. It is a cultural treasure, and the wood is traditionally used for building canoes, carvings and other artistic purposes.
Ecological Role
Kauri provides a habitat for various essential species in the New Zealand forests. As it is so large, it contributes to the structural complexity and stability of native ecosystems. Kauri forests are also efficient carbon sinks that store massive amounts of carbon in their trunks, helping mitigate climate change and offset carbon emissions.
Associated Birds
Kākā: These parrots might visit Kauri trees to forage for fruits and seeds.
Fantail (Pīwakawaka): Often found flitting around Kauri trees, Fantails catch insects stirred up by the birds' movements.
Tomtit: These small birds might search Kauri tree bark for insects and spiders.
Morepork (Ruru): Nocturnal birds like Morepork might use Kauri trees as roosting spots during the day.
Whitehead: These small birds might explore Kauri branches in search of insects and fruits.
Bellbird (Korimako): Their melodious calls might resonate through Kauri forests, as they feed on nectar.
New Zealand Falcon: These raptors might use tall Kauri trees as lookout points for hunting.
Kererū (New Zealand Pigeon): Known as important seed dispersers, Kererū could eat and spread Kauri seeds.
Kiwi: Although primarily ground-dwelling, Kiwis play significant roles in Kauri forest ecosystems.
Conservation Status
Unfortunately, Kauri is currently categorised as a threatened species due to the spreading of the pathogen Phytophthora Agathidicida. Conservation interventions are in place, such as track closure, hygiene efforts, and research to manage and understand the disease.
Interesting Facts
- Kauri trees are known for their longevity, with some trees over 2,000 years old. This makes them one of the oldest tree species in the world.
- The tree gum from Kaurinis can be used for jewellery and varnish as it forms a fossilised resin.
- Timber from Kauri is valuable as it is of high quality and durability
Conservation Tips
The key to conserving Kauri is to manage and stop the spread of the dieback disease. We must support and adhere to the conservation efforts and respect the signage from local organisations.
Growing conditions
Moisture
Soil
Drainage
Frost tolerance
Wind tolerance
Coastal tolerance
What this tree gives back
Food for native birds
Fruit, seeds or nectar that feed native birds.
Supports pollinators
Flowers that sustain native bees and insects.
Erosion control
Roots that bind soil and hold slopes together.
Suits riparian planting
Thrives along stream and river margins.
Suits wetland planting
Handles the wet ground of wetland sites.
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