The Hukutaia Domain ranks as one of Opotiki's main attractions. It is a 5 hectare remnant of extensive native forest that was set aside as a reserve by one of the original owners Mr E.M. Hutchinson in the early 1900's.

Mr Norman Potts was instrumental in developing the reserve with walking tracks and touring all over New Zealand (plus outlying islands) gathering rare and endangered plants some of which now form a very valuable botanical collection. Mr Mark Heginbotham followed on with My Potts work.

Of particular interest is the estimated 2000 to 2500-year-old giant Puriri tree. Being hollow, the tree was used as a resting place for the bones of Distinguished Dead of the Upokorehe Iwi (Tribe). The tree named Taketakerau was highly tapu (Sacred). Local resident Marnie Anstis has written a book entitled The Millennium Tree which is based on the life of Taketakerau.

The Opotiki District Council owns the Domain. A care group looks after the Domain by way of maintenance, pest control and development with generous help from the Council and Environment Bay of Plenty.

Brochures, information sheets and notices about various topics are available in the Domain. There is no charge to visit the Domain.

To get to the Domain on leaving Opotiki township turn left immediately after crossing the Waioeka Bridge (heading west) on to Woodlands Road and drive 7km to very near the end where you will find the Domain sign.