Tutamoe

Tutamoe is a peak located in the Waipoua Forest of Northland, New Zealand. It is the highest point in the forest and holds significant cultural importance to the local Māori iwi (tribes).

Geography: Tutamoe rises to an elevation of approximately 771 meters (2,530 feet) above sea level. It is characterized by dense native rainforest vegetation, typical of the Waipoua Forest.

Cultural Significance: Tutamoe holds considerable spiritual and historical significance for Māori. It is considered a sacred site (wahi tapu) and is associated with various ancestral narratives and traditions. The peak is a focal point for tribal identity and is often referenced in whakapapa (genealogy) and oral histories.

Waipoua Forest: Tutamoe's prominence is intrinsically linked to the Waipoua Forest, which is renowned for its ancient kauri trees, including the famous Tāne Mahuta and Te Matua Ngahere. The forest itself is a significant ecosystem and a vital part of the cultural landscape.

Conservation: The Waipoua Forest, including Tutamoe, faces ongoing conservation challenges related to kauri dieback disease (Phytophthora agathidicida). Efforts are underway to manage the spread of the disease and protect the health of the remaining kauri trees and the broader ecosystem.