The history and culture surrounding the Whakarewarewa Forest, the variety of outdoor recreational opportunities, diverse range of exotic tree species, mix of native undergrowth, panoramic views, and proximity to lakes, thermal areas and the city centre have made The Redwoods & Whakarewarewa Forest one of Rotorua’s most spectacular natural assets and one of the city’s greatest treasures.

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 forest is most well known for the network of superb mountain biking and walking tracks and for the magnificent stand of Californian Coast Redwoods. These towering trees, along with numerous other species and the fresh forest air, combine to create an invigorating atmosphere and a truly unique and special environment.

Connect with the culture, people, history and landscape that have made Rotorua the incredible place it is today.

Lake Rotoiti is one of the three largest lakes in the Rotorua region. Surrounded by lush native bush, it also features glow worm caves and a secluded hot pool complex. 

Rotorua Museum, the Blue Baths, the Klamath Falls Rose Gardens, Te Runanga Tearooms and Band Rotunda are all located here.
 
Klamath Falls Rose Gardens on Queens Drive are named after Klamath Falls in Oregon, USA – a sister city to Rotorua. Beautiful roses are in bloom from mid-November to June.

Near the centre of town you can explore Kuirau Park’s natural hot springs, bubbling mud pools, stunning gardens and even a crater lake. Take some time to soak your feet in the recently renovated geothermal foot baths, a lovely way to relax.
 
More commonly known by locals as the Tree Trust, Centennial Park offers 20 beautiful, grassy, tree-dotted hectares of rolling hills and gullies. In spring, thousands of tui flock here when the trees are in flower, happily singing their little hearts out while they dine on their favourite nectar. Sheep are the eco-friendly grounds keepers here, so be sure to close any gates you go through.

With viewing platforms that provide great views of magnificent waterfalls and white water rafters making their way down the Kaituna River, as well as geocaches and glow worms at night, there is plenty to keep kids entertained on this short, easy walk.

Lake Okaro is a significant taonga (treasure) to the Ngati Whaoa / Ngati Tahu tribes. The reserve is located from Waimangu Road. Surrounded by farms, the lake has poor water quality but is safe for recreational activities including trout fishing and waterskiing. The lake is home to the grey teal, paradise shelduck and dabchick.

The lake is now used for recreational purposes such as boating, water skiing, and fishing. There is a campground alongside the lake by Okaro Road, with parking and public toilets available. An area of wetland has been created nearby to filter some of the water running into the lake.

The walkway around the lake is about 2.3 km long, and is shown as taking one hour. This walk, in a clockwise direction from the campground, took 40 minutes.

Towering trees, rushing rivers, diverse habitats and a fascinating history combine to create the Whirinaki Te Pua-a-Tāne Conservation Park. It's one of New Zealand's most remarkable and significant forests and a must-see biodiversity hotspot.

For a country that is so well-endowed with natural features, it’s difficult to find a forest of distinction. But one certainly exists. Whirinaki is one-of-a-kind in this land of such spectacular scenery. And it’s within easy driving distance of Whakatāne.

The park is valued as a taonga (treasure) containing the living children of Tāne Mahuta, the Māori god of the forest. Local iwi (tribe) Ngāti Whare is the active kaitiaki (guardian) of the park working with the Department of Conservation (DOC) to protect the natural, cultural, and historic resources for the benefit and well-being of future generations of Aotearoa and visitors.

The park is valued for its mixed indigenous podocarp forests including tōtara, rimu, miro, matai and kahikatea, and the richness of its species.

Once the realm of hardcore trampers and hunters, this deep wilderness can now be explored on an 85-kilometer trail that reveals not only its awe-inspiring beauty but also the story of how this special place has changed over the ages.

The Timber Trail follows the path of old logging roads and tramlines, linked with purpose-built singletrack and a series of thrilling suspension bridges. It runs between the tiny settlements of Pureora and Ongarue, with even smaller Piropiro around the halfway mark. Limited road access, remoteness, and memorable accommodation in the middle make a two-day, ride, starting in the north at Pureora, the most rewarding approach.

Thirty five minutes south of Rotorua is Kerosene Creek, a geothermally heated stream where you can bathe and relax.

Hot water from a natural spring under the earth bubbles up into the cool waters of the creek, creating pleasantly warm waters. Swimmers have piled up small smooth rocks to create little hot pools beside the 2m waterfall.

Set amongst lush native bush, Kerosene Creek is popular among visitors and locals alike, offering a natural bathing experience like no other.

There's no admission charge, just be courteous to other bathers, and take any rubbish away with you. 

Nestled in the heart of New Zealand's North Island, Lake Tarawera is a shimmering jewel among the country's picturesque landscapes. This pristine lake, fringed by lush native bush, boasts a tranquil beauty that captivates all who visit. With its crystal-clear waters and a backdrop of the mighty Mount Tarawera, the lake's scenery is nothing short of awe-inspiring.

Lake Tarawera offers a diverse range of activities for nature lovers and adventurers alike. You can embark on scenic boat cruises, kayak across its serene surface, or cast your fishing line into its depths, hoping to reel in a trophy-sized trout. The lake's geothermal wonders, such as the famous Hot Water Beach, provide a unique opportunity to relax in nature's own hot tubs.

For those seeking cultural enrichment, Lake Tarawera holds historical significance as the site of the devastating 1886 eruption of Mount Tarawera. You can explore the remnants of the Pink and White Terraces, once considered the eighth wonder of the natural world, which were buried by the eruption and are now submerged in the lake.

Whether you seek tranquillity, adventure, or a glimpse into history, Lake Tarawera beckons you to immerse yourself in its natural wonders and rich heritage. It's a destination where every vista, every activity, and every moment promises to leave an indelible mark on your heart.