Home Urban-Rural There are many places in the Bay of Plenty where nature is close to our homes. Kaimai-Mamaku The western ranges of the Bay of Plenty are a living museum of the regions natural and human history. Whirinaki Forest 'Dinosaur' forests of giant trees many centuries old. The eastern ranges of the Bay of Plenty are remote and untouched. Lakes And Geothermal Beautiful lakes, distinctive volcanic landscapes and unique geothermal sites are special features of the Bay of Plenty. Coastal Pohutukawa fringed beaches and golden sand. Bay of Plenty's coastal environment is beautiful.

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Urban-Rural

There are many places in the Bay of Plenty where nature is close to our homes.
The Redwoods, Whakarewarewa Forest

Click for Contact Details Known to the locals simply as The Redwoods, the beautiful Whakarewarewa Forest is a five-minute drive from Rotorua city centre. The most popular part of the forest available for recreational use is the Tokorangi Triangle. It encompasses 288 hectares of native and exotic trees adjoining the renowned Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve, providing an exquisite
visual backdrop to Rotorua.
Horse Riding There are many superb horsetreks to be experienced throughout the Bay of Plenty. Information Need maps, help or advice when in the area - check out our Information Centres. Disabled Access Easy access for wheelchairs and buggies. Look Outs Experience the magestic views that only the Bay of Plenty can provide. Parking Need a place to park, look no further. Picnicing Beautiful scenic areas with picnic tables provided for your eating pleasure. Public Toilets The Bay of Plenty is renowned for the cleanliness of its amenities. Walking A cool casual walk taking in the beautiful Bay of Plenty scenery can be a great way to wind down. Leashed Dogwalks Plenty of room to exercise your canine - just remember to keep them on their leashes. Mountain Biking Extreme or leisurely, the Bay of Plenty has many great scenic cycling experiences.


In 1901 170 tree species from around the world were planted here to find the species best
suited to commercial harvesting. The advantages of Radiata pine, New Zealand most
important commercial species, were discovered as a result. Many other trees did not survive,
but the Californian Redwoods thrived and have become a major attraction.The forest is a popular area for walking, jogging, orienteering and picnics. Further out into the forest there are also horse riding and mountain biking tracks available.

How to Get There

Drive along Te Ngae Road to Tarawera Road and right onto Long Mile Road where the The Redwoods Gift Shop & Visitor Centre and main car park is located.

Attractions and Facilities

Among the many short and long walks are:

Redwood Walk

(suitable for pushchairs and most wheelchairs, 30mins return), meanders through the 60m tall Californian Coastal Redwoods.

Waitawa Walk

(Easy walking, 1hr return). A relaxing and educational walk with a nature
trail where many trees and plants are identified. Quarry Lookout Track (Moderate walking, 1.5hrs return). This track leads to a great view over the redwoods and Lake Rotorua.

Pohaturoa Track

(Steep climb, 2hrs return). Takes in superb views of the city and Lake
Rotorua, Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve and the Waipa Sawmill.

Please Remember

Open fires are not permitted. Dogs must be on a leash.

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Protect plants and animals.
Remove rubbish.
Bury toilet waste.
Keep streams and lakes clean.
Take care with fires.
Camp carefully.
Keep to the track.
Consider others.
Respect our cultural heritage.
Enjoy your visit.

Toitu te Whenua
(Leave the land undisturbed).

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© Copyright. Destination Outdoors Bay of Plenty is the product of a Department of Conservation (Bay of Plenty Conservancy) initiative promoting recreational opportunities for people to learn about the natural, historical and cultural significance of the Bay of Plenty.
Please contact 0064 09 349 7400 for more information.