Giant kauri trees of the Waipoua Kauri Forest act as sentinels for the undiscovered jewel of Northland's West Coast, the historic Hokianga Harbour. Known also as 'Te Kohanga o Te Tai Tokerau', many Maori trace their ancestry to the discovery and settlement of this harbour, making it indeed the birthplace of the Nation.

Many quaint villages dot the Hokianga including the twin settlement of Omapere and Opononi made famous in 1955-56 by Opo the dolphin. Rawene, New Zealand's third oldest European settlement has historic Clendon House to visit as well as the recently completed mangrove walk. Kohukohu, is an historic timber mill town, while the second oldest European settlement of Horeke was an historic ship building town. Nearby Mangungu Mission House is the site of the second signing of the Treaty of Waitangi.

Journey back in time and follow the original stagecoach route from Paihia to Hokianga. A trail marked out by early Maori and then frequented by traders and merchants who transported supplies, kauri, gum and timber between the coasts during the 19th and early 20th century.

Uncover 2.8 million year old geological rock formations as you meander along the walkways of the unique Wairere Boulder Valley. View thousands of massive basalt boulders, some over 30m high.

Through our stories and culture, we take you back to the days of Kupe, believed to be the first voyager and Maori to discover New Zealand over 1,000 years ago. Your local Maori guide will provide you with an in-depth interpretation of the many myths and legends of the local hapu (sub-tribe).

The Waipoua Kauri Forest provides a natural stage for an unforgettable encounter with some of the largest remaining kauri trees in the world. Meet a national icon, the mighty Tane Mahuta (the Lord of the Forest), the largest known kauri tree in the world. Estimated to be 2,000 years old his mighty girth is over 13 metres and he stands an impressive 51 metres tall.

• Follow the original stagecoach trail.

• Visit the Wairere Boulders.

• Meet Tane Mahuta, a 51m tall kauri tree, estimated to be 2,000 years old.

• Learn the history and culture of the region.

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Adult: $102.00.

Child: $61.00 (under 5yrs go free).

Departures (daily year round): Departs Paihia 8.00am*; Returns Pahia 4.00pm. (*Minimum numbers do apply)

Reporting time: 15 minutes prior to departure.

Refreshments and lunch: Refreshment stops are made for morning and afternoon tea (own expense). For lunch we stop at the historic township of Opononi. Enjoy lunch at the Copthorne Hokianga (at your own expense).

Commentary: A full commentary is provided in English by your driver and guides. The Maori language is spoken at key points throughout the journey, with English interpretation provided.

What to bring: Hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, walking shoes, camera and warm clothing.

Telephone: 0800 653 339

Email: 

International calls: + 64 9 402 7421

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