National forest

Known to locals simply as ‘The Redwoods’, the 55,000ha Whakarewarewa Forest offers splendid walks.Thanks to the owners and managers of the privately owned forest, access to the trails is always free. Please help us look after this incredible taonga (treasure).The redwood grove in Rotorua was planted back in 1901 with the aim of using the timber for building purposes.These trees have grown faster than in their native homeland due to the richer, well-drained soil and higher rainfall in the area, reaching over 70 metres (230 ft) height only 100 years later.[The tallest redwood in the forest stands at 75 metres.Over 5600 hectares of forest awaits you to enjoy and explore at your leisure. If you love the outdoors and want to experience nature at its best this area is definitely for you!The trails weave through native ferns beneath soaring forest canopies of Redwood, Radiata, Douglas Fir, Eucalyptus and Larch trees.

it’s nice to have an about three hrs walk

Neat little track. However it was closed but we just played at the river.

Nice forest. Do not go off track u less you have navigation skill and device!!!!!

Rangiwahia is a fairly easy 2 hour walk for moderately fit people. The hut is spacious and warm. The views are stunning.

This trip up the Waiatoto river was exciting in a jet boat with Ruth our tour operator very interesting to listen to about the local geography and about the fauna.

A fantastic experience, the scenery is amazing and Ruth's knowledgable commentary added so much interest.

Quite a beautiful lake both in summer and in winter. The bluey-green water is something nice to see particularly when walking over the footbridge. There is plenty of walking paths around so you are able to enjoy nature and the scenery around the lake.My most recent visit was in the winter and it was nice looking at the snow-capped mountains behind the large lake.The place has plenty of parking, one lot on either side of the township, as well as public toilets around. There is a four square for groceries if you didn't want to eat out in the restaurants of the area. there is also a playground in the grassy area between the township and the lake.It is always a nice place to take in some nature. If you have the time, this place is also really good for stargazing due to the low light pollution. You can do it simply by staring into the night sky but they have quite a few tours for it.

Beautiful scenery with walks for all stages from 40 mins to 2hours. Longer walks/hikes for the more experienced. Fast walkers can get to the orongorongo river/banana bridge in 70 mins. Take a picnic and make a day of it. Not suitable for buggies but there has been a few decent mountain buggies that have made the 5 mile trek.

Gorgeous place, Amazing, so quiet,