- Species: Derived from Agathis Australis.
- Origin: Native to New Zealand.
- Durability: Moderately durable; resistant to decay but not as hard as many tropical hardwoods.
- Highlights: Ancient wood (some swamp kauri is over 30,000 years old), prized for its straight grain, stability, and golden luster.
- Form: Available as sawn timber, slabs, veneer, and specialty pieces (including reclaimed swamp kauri).
- Grade: Select, Clear, and Furniture grades (depending on cut and intended use).
- Moisture: Typically kiln-dried to (8 – 12%) for furniture and interior joinery.
- Dimensions Available: Sawn Timber: Thickness: 2.5 cm – 10 cm / Width: 10 cm – 60 cm / Length: Typically, 2 m – 6 m. Slabs: Thickness: 10 cm+ / Width: up to 100 cm+ / Length: up to 6 m+. Veneer: Thickness: 0.5 – 2 mm (sheets & decorative panels).
- Janka Hardness: ~ 1,200 lbf (5,340 N).
- Grain: Straight to slightly wavy; fine and even texture.
- Color: Pale golden to rich honey-brown, darkening with age and polishing.
- Water Resistance: Moderate; not ideal for constant wet exposure.
- Certification: Often FSC-certified for sustainable sources; swamp kauri pieces may come with authenticity certification due to rarity.
- Outdoor Suitability: Limited; not recommended without treatment.
- Indoor Suitability: Excellent for furniture, flooring, paneling, and fine woodworking.
- Estimated Prices: Per Cubic Meter (m3) = ~US $800 – $1,500+ / Price per Piece = ~US $50 – $300+. Ancient Swamp Kauri (premium, rare): Typically ranges from $5,000 to $10,000+ per m³, with exceptional pieces exceeding this due to rarity and decorative figure.
- Use Cases: High-end furniture, veneers, boatbuilding, musical instruments, cabinetry, flooring, carving, luxury interior design, and collector’s items (especially swamp kauri slabs and tables).
