WAIPOUA FOREST Tane Mahuta & KAURI MUSEUM Day Tour from Auckland

Auckland , New Zealand

WAIPOUA FOREST Tane Mahuta & KAURI MUSEUM Day Tour from Auckland

Active

12h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Waipoua Forest - Tāne Mahuta, Te Matua Ngahere & Kauri Museum Day Tour from Auckland

Discover the ancient giants of Waipoua Forest on this full-day tour from Auckland. Visit Tāne Mahuta, New Zealand’s tallest kauri tree, and Te Matua Ngahere, one of the oldest and widest living trees in the world. Explore the Kauri Museum in Matakohe, showcasing the rich history of the kauri timber and gum industries. Travel in comfort with a knowledgeable guide, with scenic stops and light refreshments along the way. A perfect blend of nature, culture, and history in one unforgettable day.

Available options

WAIPOUA FOREST Tane Mahuta & KAURI MUSEUM Day Tour from Auckland

Pickup included

What's included

Entrance fee

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Tāne Mahuta is New Zealand’s largest known living kauri tree, located in the Waipoua Forest in Northland. Often called the “Lord of the Forest,” it is estimated to be over 2,000 years old. Standing at about 51 meters tall with a trunk girth of over 13 meters, Tāne Mahuta is a sacred tree in Māori culture, believed to be the son of Ranginui (the sky father) and Papatūānuku (the earth mother), who separated his parents to let light into the world. It's a must-visit natural wonder symbolizing life, growth, and connection to nature.

Te Matua Ngahere, meaning "Father of the Forest," is one of the oldest and widest known kauri trees in New Zealand, also located in the Waipoua Forest. Estimated to be over 2,500 years old, it stands about 29.9 meters tall but is especially notable for its massive trunk girth of over 16 meters, making it the stoutest kauri tree in existence. Revered in Māori tradition, Te Matua Ngahere represents wisdom, endurance, and deep ancestral connections. Its presence offers a powerful and humbling experience for all who visit.

Stop 3

The Kauri Museum in Matakohe, Northland, is a premier cultural attraction dedicated to the rich history of New Zealand’s kauri forests and the pioneering era. Spanning 4,500 square meters, it is the largest undercover visitor attraction north of Auckland .

The museum features extensive exhibits on the kauri timber and gum industries, including the world's largest collection of kauri gum and kauri furniture . Visitors can explore life-sized reconstructions of pioneer rooms, operational machinery from the era, and interactive antique items . A highlight is the full-scale circumference outlines of massive kauri trees, some even larger than Tāne Mahuta .

Kauri museum offers a unique insight into the natural and cultural heritage of New Zealand's kauri forests .

What's not included

Coffee and/or Tea

Brunch

Snacks

Available languages

Audio guide

Guide guide

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Auckland

Auckland is New Zealand's largest city, known for its stunning harbor, volcanic landscapes, and vibrant multicultural scene. With over 50 trails and 22 islands, it's a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Top Attractions

Auckland Sky Tower

The Sky Tower is Auckland's tallest structure, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.

Architecture 1-2 hours NZD 39 for observation deck, NZD 189 for SkyJump

Auckland War Memorial Museum

This museum offers a comprehensive look at New Zealand's history, culture, and natural environment.

Museum 2-3 hours NZD 25 for adults, free for children under 15

Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island is known for its beautiful beaches, vineyards, and olive groves.

Nature Full day Ferry fare NZD 18-25 one way

Rangitoto Island

Rangitoto Island is a volcanic island offering hiking trails and panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf.

Adventure Half day Ferry fare NZD 18-25 one way

Auckland Zoo

Auckland Zoo is home to over 1,400 animals and offers educational programs and conservation efforts.

Family 2-3 hours NZD 30 for adults, NZD 18 for children

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hāngī

A traditional Maori method of cooking food using heated rocks buried in a pit oven. Meats and vegetables are cooked slowly in the earth oven, giving them a unique smoky flavor.

Dinner Contains meat, can be vegetarian if requested

Pavlova

A meringue-based dessert with a crisp crust and soft, light inside, usually topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit.

Dessert Gluten-free, can be made vegan

Fish and Chips

A classic New Zealand takeaway food, featuring fresh fish (usually snapper or tarakihi) and chips, often served with tartare sauce.

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish, can be gluten-free if requested

Popular Activities

Hiking Kayaking Skydiving Beach activities Spa treatments Wine tasting Maori cultural performances Museum visits

Best Time to Visit

December to February (Summer)

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm temperatures, long daylight hours, and numerous outdoor events. It's perfect for beach activities and hiking.

20-25°C 68-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Maori
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Time Zone

GMT+12

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Auckland is generally safe, with low levels of violent crime. However, petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night

Getting there

By air

Auckland Airport • 21 km south of the city center

By train

Auckland Railway Station

By bus

Auckland Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport in Auckland. The network includes local, frequent, and express services.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Ola

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

CBD (Central Business District) Ponsonby Devonport Mission Bay

Day trips

Waiheke Island

35 minutes by ferry from downtown Auckland • Full day

Waiheke Island is known for its beautiful beaches, vineyards, and olive groves. It offers a mix of relaxation and adventure.

Rangitoto Island

25 minutes by ferry from downtown Auckland • Half day

Rangitoto Island is a volcanic island offering hiking trails and panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf.

Hobbiton Movie Set

2.5 hours by car from Auckland • Full day

The Hobbiton Movie Set is a popular tourist attraction featuring the filming locations from the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movies.

Festivals

Auckland Arts Festival • March Auckland Diwali Festival • October/November Auckland Pride Festival • February

Pro tips

Visit the Auckland War Memorial Museum on a weekday morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the cultural performances.
Take a ferry to Waiheke Island for a day trip, and book a wine tour in advance to ensure availability.
Explore the city's vibrant food scene by visiting the La Cigale French Market or the Auckland Night Markets.
Hike up to the summit of Rangitoto Island for stunning panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf.
Use the AT HOP card for easy and discounted public transport fares.