Small steps help protect our mighty kauri
Published on 18 September 2026
New Tiakina Kauri signs are appearing on walking tracks across the Whangārei District, reminding visitors that simple actions can make a real difference.
The signs follow the confirmation of kauri dieback at A H Reed Memorial Kauri Park earlier this year and encourage people to stay on marked tracks, clean footwear and equipment, keep dogs on leashes, avoid disturbing forest floors and follow any hygiene measures in place.
Since kauri dieback was confirmed at A H Reed Memorial Kauri Park in April 2026, we have worked alongside Ngāti Kahu o Torongare, Northland Regional Council and specialist advisers to understand the extent of the disease and guide the response.
Whangārei District Māori Ward Councillor Phoenix Ruka has been involved with the kauri dieback working group from the beginning, and says the new signs are a practical reminder that everyone has a part to play in protecting kauri.
“From a Māori perspective, kauri are taonga with deep whakapapa and mauri. They are part of the living fabric of our whenua, our history and our responsibilities as kaitiaki,” Councillor Ruka says.
“Protecting kauri is about more than protecting trees; it is about caring for something that shelters, sustains and connects people.”
To date, 16 trees have been sampled, with two detections of Phytophthora agathidicida recorded. The latest sampling was completed in June 2026, when two additional trees were tested and no pathogen was detected.
More trees have been identified for testing, and partners are developing a further sampling plan for when conditions are dry enough, with the next round expected to begin around late October 2026.
Alongside this work, Council is working with Ngāti Kahu o Torongare and Northland Regional Council to explore options for the park’s future, through the creation of a joint kauri dieback management plan.
Improved features could include upgraded hygiene stations, track improvements, and other measures that would help reduce the risk of spreading kauri dieback when public access eventually resumes.
“It is encouraging to see everyone working together on the next steps,” Councillor Ruka says.
“In the meantime, staying on marked tracks is a small thing we can all do to protect these taonga. Every small action helps to protect our kauri.”