Kauri Museum

The history of these majestic trees and their destruction is told here. 

Exhibitions of one of the trees that fell down and therefore could be used for the main exhibit and to supply the wood for the staircase in the main hall. The wood has a beautiful honey lustre and very fine grain, no wonder it was prized.

The other exhibits are of the tree felling and processing, large sawmills of all types, band, circular and reciprocating.  Driven by water, steam engines and electricity. 

The collection of chainsaws fills a whole wall.

Further on is reconstruction of a colonial house and a boardroom table made from Kauri wood.

Outside is the original post office and school. 

Kauri gum, the resin from the tree, also found many uses from fire starting to wood finishes and jewelry, especially if some plant or insect was trapped inside.