kauri

Kauri is the common name for several large evergreen conifers in the genus Agathis, in the family Araucariaceae. The group is native to the western Pacific region, with the best-known species occurring in New Zealand and parts of Australia and New Caledonia. Kauri trees are valued for their timber, ecological role, and cultural significance in Pacific cultures.

The New Zealand kauri, Agathis australis, is the largest and longest-lived member of the group. It can reach heights of 40–50 meters and trunk diameters of several meters. Individual trees may live for more than a thousand years. In northern New Zealand forests these giants historically dominated lowland and coastal stands.

Kauri timber is pale, close-grained, and readily worked, qualities that have made it highly prized for shipbuilding, furniture, and decorative carpentry. Historically, large kauri were logged extensively; today most remaining trees are protected in reserves. The timber is durable when dried but susceptible to rot if moisture remains.

Kauri species are evergreen conifers that form seed-bearing cones; trees grow in moist, well-drained forests from coastal to montane habitats. They regenerate slowly and depend on disturbance and canopy openings for recruitment and growth of young trees. The species are sensitive to soil moisture, fire, and pests.

Conservation concerns include kauri dieback disease, caused by Phytophthora agathidicida, which damages roots and can kill trees. Efforts focus on protective measures, hygiene to prevent spread, movement restrictions of soil and plant material, and restoration plantings in reserves and sanctuaries. Public awareness and scientific monitoring support these programs.