Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest Tours and Activities

Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest

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Walk, cycle or ride a horse through this picturesque forest filled with a magnificent array of trees from around the world.

Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest is a tranquil woodland park crisscrossed by trekking and biking trails. Set off on a hike past thermal ponds and geysers or admire eucalyptus trees and immense Californian Redwoods while horseback riding.

Extensively signposted paths here prevent visitors from getting overwhelmed by this breathtaking 5,600-hectare (13,840-acre) forest. Originally planted at the turn of the 20th century as a means of providing timber, the area is home to an assortment of trees and plants, with native species standing side by side with those from North America, Asia and Europe.

Put on your walking shoes and head out along the Redwood Memorial Grove Track. This 2-kilometre (1-mile) loop leads past an old thermal pond featuring exotic aquatic plants. Look for European larch and towering Californian redwoods, many of which have grown to a height of 67 metres (220 feet). For something a bit more strenuous, try the Tokorangi Pa Track, which offers superb views of Mount Ngongotaha, or the Pohaturoa path, which winds through fields of dense Mexican pine and Japanese larch.

Horse riders can traverse the forest using four dedicated trails. If you’re a novice rider, opt for the 30-minute bridle path. More experienced riders might enjoy the longer Radio Hut Outlook Trail, which offers the chance to see an active geyser and a peculiar pool of bubbling mud.

For more heart-pumping action, explore the spectacular mountain-bike trails. With around 130 kilometres (80 miles) of purpose-built terrain, you are sure to find something to suit your ability. Cruise along the kid’s circuit on the Inner Core Network or test yourself on an exhilarating downhill course. Rent bikes from the Waipa Mountain Bikeparking lot and purchase tickets for shuttle bus services that carry bikers to the top of downhill trails.

Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest is located southeast of Rotorua. The park is open all day and entrance is free. The best place to begin your exploration is at the visitor centre where you can pick up maps and browse a small gift shop that sells handmade wood carvings.

Plan a trip to see Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest

Petri Bach
B&B Blossom Cottage
Poripori Homestead
Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Reviews of Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest

4.7
Top destination
5 - Excellent
278
" "5 - Excellent 76.37362637362638%
4 - Good
80
" "4 - Good 21.978021978021978%
3 - Okay
5
" "3 - Okay 1.3736263736263736%
2 - Disappointing
0
" "2 - Disappointing 0%
1 - Terrible
1
" "1 - Terrible 0.27472527472527475%

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveller
10 Mar 2020

tried to go for the night walk but the line was 45 mins long - they should pre-sale tickets and cap it

4/5 - Good

Gina’s
17 Feb 2020

Move at your own leisure, no need to wait, not everyone’s cup of tea.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller
3 Jan 2020

Never fails to impress.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller
26 Dec 2019

A must go to place to see the most amazingly huge trees. This place is tranquil and breathtaking in so many ways that you must experience it. Take your time and be amazed at the wonder of nature. A walk around this area is a meditation in a different way and the fresh area made me feel so alive and happy.

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller
14 Nov 2019

The tree walk is only a few metres up, not near the top like most are.

4/5 - Good

jackie
6 Oct 2019

Night light experience is very busy- prepare for a long wait to see lights

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