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North Island

Start: Rotorua or Taupo
Locations: Rotorua, Taupō
Duration: 1 day
Travel Time: 7 hours
Difficulty: 2
Minimum Age: 8

Details

Explore the Jurassic Beauty of Whirinaki Forest

Just a short drive from Rotorua, the Whirinaki Forest offers a full-day hiking adventure through one of New Zealand’s most untouched natural environments. Towering native trees like rimu, kahikatea, and matai stretch up to 60 metres into the sky. With every step, you’ll feel the ancient energy of a forest that’s stood since the time of dinosaurs.

As you hike deeper, keep your eyes peeled for rare native birds like the kaka, yellow-crowned kakariki, and toutouwai. You’ll pause for a relaxing lunch beside a stunning waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery and birdsong. Along the way, your guide shares fascinating insights into the forest’s ecology and the conservation work keeping it thriving for generations to come.

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Explore Ancient Forests: Traverse the Whirinaki Forest, renowned for its towering 500-year-old trees, including rimu, kahikatea, miro, and matai, standing as high as 60 metres.
  • Bird Watching Opportunities: Spot some of New Zealand’s rarest birds such as the kaka (North Island parrot), yellow-crowned kakariki (parakeet), and toutouwai (North Island robin) in their natural habitat.
  • Scenic Lunch Spot: Enjoy a lunch break at a stunning waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery and the soothing sounds of nature.
  • Educational Experience: Learn about the forest’s unique ecology and the ongoing conservation efforts to protect this vital environment.
  • Panoramic Views: Experience the breathtaking scenery of the central plateau during the journey to and from Whirinaki Forest.

TOUR INCLUSIONS

  • Comprehensive Transport: Pick-up from your accommodation in Rotorua or Taupo at 9:00 a.m., with return transport included.
  • Guided Hike: A four-hour guided walk through the Whirinaki Forest, led by an experienced guide.
  • Lunch: A delicious packed lunch provided, with vegetarian options available upon request.
  • Commentary: Informative commentary during the one hour and 15 minutes travel time from Rotorua/Taupo to Whirinaki, highlighting the region’s unique features.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

  • Minimum Group Size: A minimum of 2 people is required to run the tour.
  • Secure Storage: You may leave belongings in the locked storage of our vehicle, although this is at your own risk. We recommend having travel insurance.
  • What to Bring:
    • Sturdy walking shoes or boots
    • Small backpack for water and extra clothing
    • Layers of clothing (t-shirt, warm jumper, waterproof jacket)
    • Binoculars and camera (optional)
  • Tour Duration: Total duration of 7 hours, including travel and hiking time.

AGE INFORMATION

  • Adult: 17 years +
  • Children: 8-16 years
  • Minimum Age: 8 years

CANCELLATIONS & REFUNDS

  • 14 days or more before departure: Full refund**
  • 2-13 days before departure: 15% cancellation fee**
  • Within 48 hours before departure: No refund

Note: **Refund excludes credit card or payment fees if applicable, which are non-refundable.

Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.*

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