You cant just dig anywhere ... Fresh gum from living kauri trees is strictly prohibited. Never cut, bleed, damage, or dig around living kauri roots.

Most legal gum today comes from old private farmland, historic gumfields, coastal wash-ups, or disturbed ground with permission  not from living forests, reserves, or protected wetlands.

Searching near beaches, rivers, Māori land, wetlands, or protected areas may require permission from the landowner, DOC, council, or local iwi/hapū depending on who manages the land.

Simple Rule:

If it’s not your land or you’re unsure ask first.

Protect the trees. Respect the land.

If your property may contain kauri gum, you can register as a Gum Land Owner and earn passive income by allowing approved access under your own rules. You choose: Who enters Access times Fees or profit share Whether locals or tourists are allowed 

Trusted locals and core samplers are issued with gum digging licenses gaining them less restricted access to gum feilds or private lands.

Visitors can apply for access to participating private properties or connect with approved local licence holders / guides.