Kauri Tree Day

Kauri Tree Day

Kauri Tree Day, observed on June 17, celebrates one of the world's tallest and longest living trees as part of the Tree Holidays, dedicated to raising awareness for the trees of earth. 

The Kauri Tree is one of the most ancient and majestic forest giants in the world. Towering above the canopy with massive trunks and smooth bark, the kauri represents strength, endurance, and deep natural history.

This day celebrates an Epic Tree that has stood for centuries, quietly witnessing generations pass beneath its branches.

Origin of Kauri Tree Day

Kauri Tree Day was created by Patti Jewel and the HolidaySmart Visionary Team to unite tree lovers worldwide as part of the Trees on Earth Holidays that celebrate one of earths most precious and impressive resources. 

Why June 17?

June marks winter in New Zealand, a time when forests feel quiet and reflective. Kauri Tree Day honors endurance through seasons and reminds us of the importance of protecting ancient forests for future generations.

Kauri trees are one of the largest tree in the world with a girth that is impressive in size and worth a day of celebration.

All About the Kauri

The Kauri Tree is found in New Zealand and are considered by New Zealanders to be the greatest trees in the world. They can live to be 2000 years old and have been recorded as much as 4000 years old. They are second in size only to the giant sequoias of California. Tane Mahuta (God of the Forest), found in the Waipoua Forest sanctuary, is the largest living Kauri tree with an estimated age of 1200 years, a girth of 14 metres and a height of 51 metres. The New Zealand kauri is scientifically known as Agathis australis.

Where It Grows

• Native to northern regions of New Zealand

• Found in protected forest reserves

Size & Characteristics

• Height: Up to 160 feet (and sometimes taller)

• Trunk: Enormous, straight, and column-like

• Lifespan: Often 1,000–2,000 years

• Bark: Smooth and flakes off in plates

• Cones: Large and woody

Some kauri trees began growing long before many modern cities or nations existed. Their size and age make them among the most impressive conifers on Earth.

The tree has a smooth bark and sheds it's lowest branches, growing to a tall, dominating tree with a canopy at the top. The larger trees have an impressive trunk which does not taper towards the tip and may even broaden at points where the trunk joins branches. The branches are formed high on the trunk giving this tree its epic look. 

What Makes the Kauri Epic?

🌲 It Is a Forest Titan
Kauri trunks can grow over 40 feet in circumference.

🌲 It Lives for Millennia
Some individuals have stood for over two thousand years.

🌲 It Shaped History
Kauri timber was historically valued for shipbuilding and construction.

🌲 It Creates Unique Ecosystems
Its leaf litter changes the soil chemistry, influencing what grows around it.

🌲 It Is Culturally Significant
Kauri trees hold deep meaning in Māori tradition and heritage.

How to Celebrate Kauri Tree Day

Plant a Kauri Tree

If you are looking for a new type of tree in your yard, consider planting a kauri! It grows best in New Zealand and similar coastal climates, but why not give it a shot? Young kauri have a narrow pyramid shape and shed their lower branches as they become mature trees after about 50 years. 

Find a Kauri tree in your area

Kauri trees are native to New Zealand, however, they might be found in areas with similar climates such as the coast of California. Today is a great day to get out and see if you can find the most epic kauri tree. 

Share images of Kauri Trees on your social media

Share images of a kauri forest or tree that showcases the immense trees and give a shoutout to celebrate and appreciate these epic trees. 

How Kauri Tree Day Unites People

Kauri Trees represent things we want to be as a people, a family, a community; strength and resilience. Kauri Tree day is the perfect time to connect with other tree lovers in celebration of the epic Kauri Trees.

The kauri reminds us that trees are living history. Though it grows primarily in New Zealand, its story resonates worldwide calling attention to the preservation of ancient forests everywhere.

On June 17, we celebrate resilience, heritage, and the responsibility we share to protect Earth’s oldest giants.