Setting out from Omapere by coach, the 20 minute journey is the perfect opportunity for your local Māori guide to connect you with your fellow passengers and brief you on the protocols for your visit to the largest remaining stand of kauri in New Zealand, the mighty Waipoua Forest. Before stepping into the domain of Tāne Mahuta (the god of the forest) your guide will conduct a brief karakia (prayer) ensuring that the evening is both enjoyable and safe. On the gentle paths that slowly wind their way through this ancient theatre you will come face to face with giant kauri trees that superseded both the arrival of Kupe, NZ’s first discoverer a thousand years earlier and the birth of Jesus Christ. Experience the affinity that Māori have with the forest and the deep spiritual respect they have for these sentinels who have stood silently witnessing the passing of time. Your guide will share thought-provoking information, humorous banter, stories and legends before respectfully greeting the oldest and largest known kauri trees in the world with spine-tingling chants and song. Witness the day transition to night and by default let your senses become hauntingly enhanced. You will learn how Māori used plants for medicinal purposes and the life-cycle of a giant. The seed to mature tree journey is a curious process of luck and tenacity. As the sun sets the nocturnal creatures begin to go about their work. Should the gods look favourably down upon us you may encounter insects like weta, our two nocturnal birds (the kiwi and the native owl) or the magnificent but slightly chilling giant carnivorous 'kauri' snail. Deep in the forest waits the stately Te Matua Ngāhere - 'The Father of the Forest', who at 3,000 years is the oldest giant; Your guide will greet this primordial presence like an old friend and before leaving you will enjoy a few moments of silence to reflect Your tour will conclude with a visit to a national icon and the largest giant, Tāne Mahuta. A short stroll later and in keeping with the evening’s theme your guide will formally acknowledge the Lord of the Forest. Suddenly you stand dwarfed before a 2000 year old silhouette; his ancient limbs seem to grasp at the blanket of stars. Sit or stand in admiration as your guide shares the Māori creation story. Final words and song are offered before the curtain is drawn on an experience of a lifetime and you are ushered back to your accommodation in the Hokianga. Just like these giant kauri trees the memories you seize are timeless treasures.