Kauri Museum

Kauri Museum

The Kauri Museum is located in the small town of Matakohe in New Zealand's Northland region, south of the Waipoua Kauri Forest. It is the most popular museum in the northern region and was awarded the title of "Most Loved Attraction in the Northland Region" by the Pacific Travel Writer’s Association in 2010 and 2011. It mainly shares interesting stories about early European settlers and kauri trees.

Kauri trees are among the oldest tree species in the world and the second-largest trees globally, second only to the coast redwood in size. They are renowned worldwide for their massive trunks, fine, hard, and highly elastic timber, as well as their stunning gum. This museum is the only kauri museum in New Zealand and provides a detailed introduction to the industrial history and cultural background of the once vast kauri forests that covered the entire northern part of New Zealand, as well as the significant impact of kauri on the Māori people. The museum covers an exhibition area of approximately 4,000 square meters. The artworks, handicrafts, and collection of colonial-era furniture on display are all crafted from kauri wood. The museum houses the world’s largest collection of kauri gum and antique kauri furniture, along with model houses built from kauri. Additionally, the museum features a variety of kauri gum displays, including pieces embedded with insect fossils and plant material, which amaze visitors.

The Kauri Museum is one of the most incredible museums in New Zealand, attracting over 90,000 visitors each year to this heritage-rich and magical site. It is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, year-round except for Christmas Day.

Kauri Museum

Must-visit reason: The only kauri museum in New Zealand

Continent where the attraction is located: Oceania

Country/region where the attraction is located: New Zealand

Province/state where the attraction is located: Northland Region