Tane Mahuta, Ancient kauri tree in Waipoua Forest, New Zealand.
Tane Mahuta is an ancient kauri tree in Waipoua Forest on New Zealand's North Island. The trunk measures 13.7 meters in circumference and reaches 51.2 meters in height, while the crown spreads across several levels and occupies a wide space in the forest.
European contractors discovered this tree in the 1920s during survey work for State Highway 12 through Waipoua Forest. The discovery led to early efforts to protect the remaining kauri trees from logging, which had devastated much of the region.
Māori communities regard this tree as a living descendant of Ranginui and Papatūānuku, the parents of the natural world. Visitors recognize the deep connection between people and forest through the cleaning stations along the path, which show how much local communities protect this living being.
A 166-meter boardwalk leads from the parking area to the tree and provides easy access for most visitors. Shoe brushing stations at the start and end of the path help remove pathogens that threaten kauri trees, so all visitors should clean their footwear thoroughly.
Scientists estimate the age between 1250 and 2500 years, meaning this tree may have already been standing when the first Polynesians reached New Zealand. The trunk volume of 244.5 cubic meters supports a network of large upper branches that form a habitat of their own for ferns and epiphytes.
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