Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest, just outside Rotorua, is a large forest of Californian redwoods, native ferns and other trees. Free tracks let you walk or ride beneath redwoods planted from 1901; mountain-bike trails cross the wider forest. For a view from above, the separate Redwoods Treewalk follows suspended bridges and platforms through the canopy. Choose a short loop such as the Redwood Memorial Grove Track, or spend longer exploring. Walkers and cyclists share some parts of the forest, so take care on shared tracks.
A forest planted for trial
Whakarewarewa Forest is on the edge of Rotorua and covers about 5,600 hectares. Its best-known grove is made up of Californian redwoods, planted from 1901 as part of trials to see which tree species suited New Zealand conditions. The redwoods grew well and now rise above a mix of native bush and tree ferns.
The forest also contains other exotic and native tree species. Its walking tracks pass through the redwood grove and into different parts of the wider forest, so a short visit can stay close to the main paths or become a longer outing.
Walking and biking tracks
Walking routes range from short family-friendly loops to longer hikes. The Redwood Memorial Grove Track takes about 30 minutes and passes through the redwoods. Other options include the Waitawa Walk, also called the Blue Track, at 3.5 kilometres, and the Quarry Lookout Track, or Green Track, at 4.8 kilometres. The Redwood Quarry Trail is another route to consider.
Mountain-bike trails run through the forest, with routes for different skill levels and a network extending well beyond the grove. Walkers and riders use some of the same areas, so keep an eye out for bikes when crossing or following shared sections. The wider forest also has trails for horse riding.
The Redwoods Treewalk
The Redwoods Treewalk is a separate way to explore the forest canopy. Its 700-metre route uses 28 suspension bridges and platforms among 27 redwood trees. The walkway begins above the forest floor and reaches a platform 20 metres high. It starts with a spiral staircase, then continues across elevated sections that give a different view of the trees and the native ferns below.
The forest floor tracks are free to explore; the Treewalk is a paid attraction. A night-time version uses lanterns among the trees. Check the Treewalk website for current visitor information before you go.
Preguntas frecuentes
Is Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest free to visit?
The forest walking tracks are free to explore. The Redwoods Treewalk is a separate paid attraction.
How long does the Redwood Memorial Grove Track take?
Allow about 30 minutes for this short loop through the redwoods.
Can you mountain bike in Whakarewarewa Forest?
Yes. The forest has an extensive network of mountain-bike trails, with routes for different skill levels.
What is the Redwoods Treewalk?
It is a 700-metre elevated route across 28 suspension bridges and platforms among 27 redwoods, reaching 20 metres above the forest at its highest platform.
