The Redwoods - Whakarewarewa Forest

Suitable for all fitness levels and
most footwear can be worn

Redwood Memorial Grove track - 2.0km

30MINS

On this popular track you can meander through the breathtaking Californian Redwoods (Sequoia sempervirens) which were planted in 1901. These towering trees stand at approximately 219 feet (67 metres) tall and create a wonderful shelter, along with the under planted European Larch, for a diverse range of native plants and birds. Another feature of this track is the board walk, which takes you across the old thermal pond, home to a variety of exotic aquatic plant life. Admire these magnificent trees which are dedicated to the memory of the men of the New Zealand Forest Service who died in the two World Wars.

Waitawa Walk - 3.4km

1HOUR

This track takes you on an extension of the Redwood Track through the breathtaking Redwoods into a magnificent stand of Douglas fir. Discover the famous New Zealand Silver fern and the giant Mamaku ferns. Join the nature trail where many of the trees and plants are identified along the way.

Requires a reasonable level of
fitness and sturdy footwear

Quarry lookout track - 4.8km

1HOUR 30MINS

The Quarry Lookout Track is a variation on the Waitawa Track and ventures a bit further into the forest. A stroll through the Redwoods leads you to a short climb through mature Douglas fir, European Larch and Walnut and various species of Eucalypts. The look out point above the old rhyolite quarry gives a wonderful view over the Redwood Grove and out to Lake Rotorua and the main city.

Pohaturoa track - 7.5km

2HOURS

Setting off towards the western side of Whakarewarewa, this track is quite open. Initially passing through the Redwoods and then through stands of mature Radiata pine, Mexican pine, Japanese larch and Douglas fir. A steep climb will reward you with superb views of Rotorua City, Lake Rotorua, the Waipa Sawmill and the Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve. If you are lucky you may even sight the Pohutu Geyser erupting.

Tokorangi Pa track - 11.5km

3HOURS 30MINS

The Tokorangi Pa Track takes you through the tranquil Redwoods before a steady climb eastward to 500 metres above sea level. This is a very beautiful walk with views of Mt Ngongotaha, Rotorua City, the lake, airport and countryside. The trip through Douglas fir, European Larch and Walnut and various Eucalypts leads to the site of an ancient Maori Pa (fortified village). This was once a small Maori village although nothing noticeable remains today.

Whakarewarewa circuit - 34km

8HOURS

A full day’s walk on both forestry roads and tracks, the Whakarewarewa Circuit gives you the opportunity to discover all the beauty and wonders of the Whakarewarewa Forest. See spectacular panoramic views of Rotorua and walk the shores of the beautiful Blue and Green Lakes. Check in at the Redwoods Gift Shop and Visitor Centre for the latest information on this walk as parts of the route may be closed for forestry operations.

Blue lake (Tikitapu) track - 5.3km

1HOUR 30MINS

It is a short drive from The Redwoods to the Blue Lake. The circuit around the lake winds through native & exotic trees, bush, along the road edge and beach. There is also a lookout over both the Blue & Green Lakes. You can swim or have a picnic at any one of the attractive bays along the way. This lake is a popular spot for activities and events in the summer.

Green lake (Rotokakahi) tracks - 1.5km

1HOUR

The Green Lake can be found about 10km south of Rotorua, turning left off the main highway onto Waipa South Rd and directly into Green Lake Rd. A short drive into the forest will bring you into the picnic area. There are two short tracks which allow you remarkable views of this sacred lake. NO boating, fishing or swimming is permitted, as the Green Lake is sacred to the local Maori people.