Ancient Kauri is a rare timber recovered from buried forest systems in New Zealand. Preserved beneath peat in low-oxygen conditions, it is not cultivated or newly harvested timber. It is a finite material, revealed through careful recovery and stewardship.
Globally, the material is most often called Ancient Kauri. Ancient Wood is a broader descriptive term; in New Zealand, Ancient Kauri is also sometimes called Swamp Kauri.
How old is Ancient Kauri and how is it preserved?
Ancient Kauri originated in forests and remained preserved underground after natural burial. Individual pieces have their own recovery history; where applicable, radiocarbon analysis can help document material within peat systems. ICEWOOD does not apply a single age claim to every piece.
How is Ancient Kauri sourced and traced?
Authenticity begins at recovery. Excavated logs are recorded with a New Zealand Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) milling statement number, including recovery date and location. During milling, each slab receives a unique serial number and is registered in the Ancient Kauri archive. This creates a traceable record connecting origin, processing and material identity.
For project-specific documentation, material selection can be checked against its archive record, original log number and milling statement.
Why is every Ancient Kauri slab different?
No two Ancient Kauri slabs are alike. Grain movement, mineral interaction, compression, natural edges and colour depth vary from piece to piece. The material is selected for its individual presence, scale and character rather than a standardised appearance.
What can Ancient Kauri be used for?
Icewood uses Ancient Kauri for sculptural dining tables, coffee tables, monumental forms, architectural features and private commissions. Large-format slabs can be specified for residences, hospitality environments, boardrooms and collector spaces where the material itself is intended to define the experience of a room.
How is Ancient Kauri prepared and cared for?
Material is carefully air-dried and, where required, kiln-finished to achieve stable working conditions before crafting. Care should be appropriate to the final finish and environment: protect surfaces from standing water, use coasters and mats, avoid sustained heat or direct harsh sunlight, and maintain a relatively stable indoor climate. For a specific piece, Icewood can provide care advice based on its construction and finish.
Is Ancient Kauri a renewable material?
Ancient Kauri is discovered, not manufactured. Availability changes as slabs are revealed and documented. Architects, designers and collectors can begin with dimensions, intended application and project context, then select material from the archive.
Explore the Ancient Kauri Material Archive or contact Icewood for a project discussion.