Public Access To Iconic Kauri Forest

The Waipoua Forest will be opened for participants walking and running in the re-launch of the Tane Mahuta Forest Fun Run & Walk on Sunday 6 May 2012.

Participants will be able to run or walk 12km with a 20km category for runners wanting a further distance.

The event utilises the picturesque Waipoua Forest and is appropriately named after starting location Tane Mahuta ‘Lord of the Forest’ – New Zealand’s largest known living kauri tree.

The collaboration of Experience Hokianga Trust and Dynamo Events has made this event possible. Starting at the iconic Tane Mahuta the event winds south along State Highway 12 beneath the mantle of ancient Kauri, giant ferns, Totara, Rimu and Taraire.

“We are excited to be working with the Northland community and councils to re-launch this event”, says Stephen Cox, Director of Dynamo Events.

“We believe this is a true eco-tourism event. Along with the runners and joggers, we expect there will be a great social contingency too, out walking with their cameras and just taking in the magic and beauty of the forest,” says Cox.

The event has been strategically positioned to attract visitors to the Far North region during its tourist off-season and caters to all abilities with entries encouraged from casual walkers, joggers and runners to participate in either the 12km or 20km categories.

Family concession rates are also available. Bus services will be running, bringing participants in from Opononi, Omapere and Waimamaku. Participants can also park at the Waipoua Forest Visitor Centre and bus to the start line.

The mission behind the event is to promote the Waipoua Forest, its natural environment and the cultural significance of the area while motivating and inspiring healthy and active living.