The Parry Kauri Park is a significant section of kauri forest, including two big trees (about 800 years old) that avoided the mass destruction of ancient kauri forests that occurred with European colonisation of the Auckland region. Behind the big trees is a reasonable area of kauri regrowth, from juvenile rickers to 100+ year old forest trees. There is a wonderful track that winds through the forest, including a tree top viewpoint.
Although there is a more significant kauri forest with a number of ancients in the Waitakere Ranges, you can’t access it at present due to kauri dieback disease. Consequently, this forest with its two big trees is presently the most accessible place for an Auckland kauri experience.
There is also a large grass reserve in front of the big trees, and access to the Warkworth Museum. This includes a history of kauri cutting and milling, and is adjacent to the carpark.
There is an obvious road sign for the Parry Kauri Park on SH 1, just as you reach Warkworth heading north of Auckland. Unfortunately, once you take the turn off, there is no more signage until you get there, so you may want to refer to Google Maps!
