Known as “The Redwoods,” Whakarewarewa Forest spans 55,000ha across Rotorua and is home to some of the largest trees in Aotearoa.

I love feeling tiny in huge places, which is one of the reasons I think The Redwoods are so special. If you’d like to explore the forest, there are lots of different trails ranging from short walks to full-day hikes.

One of the most popular things to do while you’re in Rotorua is the Redwoods Treewalk, which takes you up into the trees. It’s a bit touristy, but really fun, especially if you go at night when the area is lit up. If you pay for a day ticket, you’ll get to go at night for free so it’s a win-win!

Rotorua is also a haven for mountain bikers, and if that sounds like you, this forest has some of the best mountain biking trails in the country. I’m not a biker, so I can’t personally vouch for them. But, I hear they’re well worth visiting.