Date:  05 December 2024

Access to Tāne Mahuta will be fully available from this date, although some areas of the site may still be under construction as finishing touches are completed.

The delay, caused by challenging weather conditions and difficulties sourcing specialist materials, was necessary to ensure the safety of the forest and quality of the project.

Operations Manager Stephen Soole emphasises that DOC is committed to completing this critical work while maintaining a safe environment for visitors and Tāne Mahuta alike.

“We understand how significant Tāne Mahuta is to locals and visitors from around the world,” says Stephen. “Our team is dedicated to ensuring access to this taonga while protecting its future for generations to come.”

Despite the setbacks, the Rākau Rangatira project has achieved key milestones:

• Replacement viewing platform and boardwalks: Large portions have been completed, designed to minimize the risk of spreading kauri dieback disease.
• Forest protection measures: Advanced methods to isolate workers from soil, minimize disturbance, and safeguard Tāne Mahuta’s roots are in place.
• Biosecurity protocols: Rigorous measures, including sterilized machinery and wash stations, are being followed to protect this ancient tree.

One of the final construction activities, replacing the pedestrian bridge across the Wairau River, will take place on 6 December. A crane will operate across State Highway 12, with short traffic delays managed by a Stop/Go system.

In the meantime, visitors are encouraged to explore Te Matua Ngahere, the second-largest known kauri, accessible from the Kauri Walks car park, approximately 1 km south of Tāne Mahuta on SH12.

Stephen Soole asks everyone to respect the site closure until the blessing and reopening.

“Any attempt to access the site before it is ready puts people and Tāne Mahuta at risk,” says Stephen. “We’re grateful for the public’s patience and understanding. The improved site will provide a safer, more enjoyable way to experience Tāne Mahuta, while protecting roots and environment.”

Please continue to check the DOC website for updates as we approach the reopening date.

Background information

• Reopening 21 December (originally late November)
• Stop/Go and road closures in place on Friday 6 December
• Visitors encouraged to visit Te Matua Ngahere, 1 km south of Tāne Mahuta on SH12

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