Ancient kauri forests once dominated the ecology of Northland. The arrival of Europeans decimated these, but there were several locations where ancient trees had been protected and could be seen. However, more recently, kauri dieback disease has closed most trails and access points, and there are now only two options north of Waipoua Forest. These are the Manginangina Kauri Walk and Puketi Forest Nature Trail.
Manginangina is a short, easy boardwalk through a stunning grove of ancient kauri trees and a short section of swamp forest on the east side of Puketi Forest. It is a 20 km drive from Kerikeri town centre and takes about 23 minutes. From the Heritage Bypass, go left on Waipapa Road to State Highway 10. Follow the highway north through Waipapa, then turn left onto Pungaere Road. The last section of this road is metalled.
From the car park, it is a 300-metre loop track with a central viewing point right in the middle of a grove of enormous 1,000-year-old trees (give or take!). Panels provide additional information on the trees and ecology of the forest. Although the walk only takes a few minutes, allow plenty of time. Also, be mindful that this is a stop on the tour bus circuit, so it may be busy for short periods.
