Puketi Forest is a depository of treasure comprising innumerable native plants and animals. It is a house for Kiwi, Kōkako, Kākā and Short-Tailed Bats. Being an ancient Kauri (Agathis Australis) Forest, Puketi adds great significance to the beauty and heritage of the country. This protected area is centrally located, right at the very heart of North Island of New Zealand.
Spread over an area of 15,000 Hectares which makes 37,000 Acres, Puketi Forest is rich in Magnificent Kauri, Podocarp and Hardwood Trees. Puketi is famed across for its display of ecological diversity which includes about 370 Recorded Species of Plants. A few of these types exist nowhere else in the world but in Puketi forest.
Another interesting fact about Puketi is, once combined with the Omahuta Forest; Puketi and Omahatu together become one of the largest tracts of Northland's native forest.
Years ago, Puketi enjoyed the company of several unique species like New Zealand Robin, Rifleman, Kaka and Red and Yellow-Crowned Parakeets. However, later, the invasions by pest lead to the extinct of these single types. Competition and predation are the primary reasons that lead to this sad incursion. To add on, the number of the remaining native birds like North Island Kiwi, Kukupa (New Zealand Pigeon) and Pied Tit Too have drastically fallen. Sadly, a few of them even face the threat of extinction.
Two species of Bats, which are originally New Zealand's Oldest Land Mammals, too would disappear in no time if not protected. The forest and its flora and fauna are now governed and protected by New Zealand’s Department of Conservation (DOC).
Earlier, Puketi played an essential role in the lives of Maori. Its plants and animals took care of the human food, shelter and clothing.
Puketi's Kauri Trees had great economic value in the late 19th century and first half of last century. Huge trees rule the region. Te Tangi O Te Tui Puketi - The Fourth Biggest living Kauri Tree is the main captivation for thousands of tourist who visit New Zealand.
Puketi offers a truly stunning sight. To experience the enigma, visit and walk through the wood. Magnificent kauri trees, humming birds and breathtaking landscape are not worth missing.
The Puketi and Omahuta Forest offers a diverse range of walking and tramping opportunities, listed below :
Wild Life: Kokako, North Island Brown Kiwi, Kukupa (New Zealand Pigeon), Fantail, Pied Tit, Tui, Grey Warbler, Shining Cuckoo, Kingfisher, Silvereye, Blackbird, White-eye, Kiwi, Morepork, Stoat, Weasel, Wild Cat, Pig, Cattle, Goat and Possum
Puketi Forest Location: Puketi is located between Northland's coastlines. Hokianga Harbour lies in the west while Bay of Islands on the east coast.
Best Time to Visit: December to April
Recreational Activities At Puketi Forest: Exploration, Zoos & Wildlife, Nature Reserve, Mountain Biking, Bushwalking, Hunting, Tramping and Camping
Puketi Forest - Quick Reference :
| Address: | 476 Puketi Rd |
| Puketi | |
| Kaikohe | |
| Tel: +64 (0)9 401 9095 |
