MAN OF THE HEARTWOOD

Our native trees are some of the most unique in the world, and so is the man who has dedicated his life to telling their stories.

The tallest and probably oldest tōtara in NZ is Pouakani, the stunning cover star of Philip’s book. It grows in a forest near Mangakino, 60km north-west of Taupo. It is estimated to be 1750-1850 years old, stands 42m high, and has a girth of 11.92m. To give you an idea, a standard bus is 10-13m long.