In the middle of New Zealand’s North Island, amidst the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, lies a place of natural beauty and cultural significance. The forest at Whakarewarewa is a lush and enchanting paradise.

In short, it is a place where nature’s beauty intertwines with cultural significance.  In addition, the 55,000ha forest is a destination for walkers, mountain bikers, hikers, and horse riders.

The towering canopy of trees is the first thing that captures your attention when entering the forest at Whakarewarewa. Moreover, some trees are over a century old, and the majestic California redwoods rise skyward in a breathtaking display of nature’s grandeur. When walking through the forest, these giants impart a sense of awe and reverence, making it easy to understand why this place is often called the Redwoods Forest.

Outdoor activities

Furthermore, this amazing forest has over 160km of world-class mountain bike and walking trails, catering for beginners and experts.  Carefully carved paths weave through native ferns beneath soaring forest canopies of Redwood, Radiata, Douglas Fir, Eucalyptus and Larch trees. 

The boardwalk is suspended high above the forest floor and winds through the 75-metre-tall Californian Redwood trees. The boardwalk was designed to allow visitors panoramic views of Rotorua’s beautiful lakes, geothermal activity, and Mt. Tarawera. 

The Redwoods Tree Walk

A highlight of any visit to the forest is the Redwoods Tree Walk. A suspended bridge system that allows you to stroll among the treetops. The gentle sway of the bridges and the rustling leaves create a tranquil ambience as you traverse the walkways. Along the tree walk, you’ll encounter informative plaques that share insights into the forest’s history and the significance of the redwoods.

Flora

Initially, the forest was made up of over 170 different species of trees, but many died over time. New trees were planted. Some of the trees within the forest are Radiata Pine, Monterey Pine, Patula Pine, Tasmanian Blackwood, Douglas Fir, Australian Eucalyptus, Tasmanian Oak, European Larch, English Walnut, Japanese Cedar, Mexican Cyprus, Oriental Plane Tree, Silver Wattle, various Acacias and of course the Californian Redwoods.

For the most part, the top canopy of trees provides shade and shelter for the ground-growing native ferns, flowers, shrubs, and fungi, contributing to the forest’s ecosystem. Accordingly, the most prominent plants are the New Zealand ferns, the Ponga, or Silver Tree Fern. After all, these are New Zealand’s most unique ferns. It is one of New Zealand’s national emblems on the passport and on-sporting uniforms, such as the All-Black Rugby Team.

Fauna

Wildlife (birds and insects) are present in the forest. Furthermore, they are essential in forests, as they maintain the ecological balance.  However, they blend well in this forest and can be hard to find. Species of birds seen most often include Tomtits, Chaffinches, Blackbirds, Wax eyes and Californian Quails. The friendly and inquisitive Fantail may also follow you on your walk. Walking deeper into the forest increases the chance of seeing other species of birds and animals. There are Tuis, Tui, Kereru (native pigeon), Bellbird, Cuckoo or Harrier Hawke. At nighttime, the forest comes alive with animal sounds. The wallabies prefer being active at night and will venture out searching for food, as will the nocturnal possum sniffing for scraps around bins. The Ruru or Morepork can also be heard calling into the night.

You may come across the ‘Uropetala Carovei’, a native dragonfly known as the ‘devil’s darning needle’ due to its large size of about 8cm. Often heard throughout the forest during the warmer months is the loud song of the Clapping Cicada, but unless you dig around in the forest floor, you will only see a small fraction of the insects that have made the forest their home.

While I was looking for some wildlife, there was none to be seen. The wildlife appears to stay hidden because of the number of humans walking through the forest, both on the high bridges and on the forest floor with dogs on leash.

Californian Redwoods

Californian Redwood trees (sequoia semperviren) are native to the northwest coast of America.  The common name Redwood comes from the tree’s heartwood. Timber from these trees is used widely for general building purposes, leading to the Redwood Grove’s planting in Rotorua in 1901. The planting results were mixed – only six hectares survive today of the original 12 hectares. This did not deter planters, and around 4000 hectares were planted throughout New Zealand in the 1920s and 1940s. Approximately one per cent of those plantings remain.

The Californian Redwoods thrive well in this forest due to this temperate, sheltered, fertile, nutrient-rich soil.  Interestingly, the bark on these trees can grow up to 30 cm thick. This thick bark protects their inner tree trunk from insects and fires. 

The tallest tree in the forest measures 72 m tall and has a diameter of 169 cm. These trees can live for over 2,000 years. 

Ferns

New Zealand has about 200 hundred different varieties of ferns. Around 50% of the ferns are endemic to New Zealand and can be seen throughout the country.  Ferns are hardy and can cope in just about any environment. Be it the tussock grasslands, geothermal areas, storm-battered coastal cliffs, and everything in between. 

The Wheki or Rough Tree Fern is the most common tree fern. They grow in abundance in the Redwood Forest. Māori once used this fern to form their houses’ walls as it lasts well in the ground. It is still used for fences and steps and to define forest tracks.

The Ponga or Silver Tree Fern is one of the most distinctive with its silvery white stalk and underside of mature fronds. It is one of New Zealand’s national emblems shown clearly on the chest of the All-Blacks rugby jersey.

The Mamaku or Black Tree Fern is the most spectacular of the ferns found in The Redwoods. Growing up to 20 metres tall, the fronds arch from thick black storks. This is the largest of the tree ferns and was very important to Māori in times gone by being used as food, medicine, and lining for food stores.

Beneath the Surface: Geothermal Wonders

While the towering trees are undoubtedly captivating, what truly sets Whakarewarewa apart is its geothermal activity. As you explore deeper into the forest, you’ll notice signs of this natural phenomenon – steam rising from the earth, the scent of sulphur in the air, and bubbling mud pools. The most iconic geothermal attraction in the forest is the Pōhutu Geyser, which erupts with magnificent displays of hot water and steam.

Māori Culture and Heritage

Whakarewarewa Forest sits on the ancestral lands of the Te Arawa Māori tribe. Furthermore, these people have lived in the area for centuries and are deeply connected to the land. In short, the forest is integral to their cultural heritage; visitors can learn about Māori traditions and customs. Te Puia, a Māori cultural centre located within the forest, offers performances, workshops, and demonstrations that provide a deeper understanding of the Māori way of life.

Conservation

Preserving the forest’s natural beauty is essential, and cultural significance is a top priority. Whakarewarewa’s management is committed to conservation, and the forest is a living example of sustainable practices. Volunteers and conservation organisations tirelessly protect the ecosystem and maintain the forest’s vitality.

Shroud Art – Toilets

Interestingly, the toilets have been created to replicate trees in nature. Hence, they are made to resemble a large tree trunk. The shroud toilets are constructed of steel outer circles with the traditional Māori kowhaiwhai pattern with imagery of birds imprinted on the sides.

The forest at Whakarewarewa is a testament to the harmonious coexistence of nature, culture, and adventure. A place where the age-old wisdom of the Māori people blends seamlessly with the timeless beauty of the redwoods and the awe-inspiring geothermal wonders. Whether seeking serenity among the trees, cultural enrichment, or outdoor adventure, Whakarewarewa Forest has something to offer everyone. So, as you plan your journey to New Zealand’s North Island, include this enchanting forest on your must-visit destinations and prepare to be captivated by this beautiful giant redwood tree forest.