Square Kauri, Coromandel, New Zealand

The Square Kauri is very impressive. Although it is only the 15th largest kauri on the peninsula, it is estimated to be 1200 year old and has a peculiar squarish trunk. Most of the large kauri trees in the area were logged during the late 19th century, but presumably this one was special enough to be left.

It is a popular stop along the Tapu-Coroglen Road, as it is only a short uphill walk from the road.

The kauri of New Zealand, Agathis australis are related to three Australian species, and 18 from other countries, including Argentina, Malaysia and New Caledonia. The timber is light, straight-grained and with an exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and rot resistance. The uses of the New Zealand species included shipbuilding, house construction, wood panelling, furniture making, mine braces, and railway sleepers.