The beautiful Whakarewarewa Forest is one of Rotorua’s most spectacular natural assets. It is famous for its magnificent stand of towering Californian Coastal Redwoods and is just five minutes drive from the city centre.  

Here you can experience some of the finest walking and mountain bike trails in the world. Not to mention taking in superb panoramic views of Rotorua City, Lake and surrounding district. If you love the outdoors this area is for you!

288 hectares of the Whakarewarewa Forest, known simply as The Redwoods is managed by the Rotorua District Council. This area, recognised for the diverse range of exotic trees and flourishing native undergrowth, has been set aside for recreation. The most popular of all the walks is the Redwood Memorial Grove track where you can meander through the breathtaking Californian Redwoods (Sequoia sempervirens) which were planted in 1901. These towering trees stand at approximately 60 metres tall and reach 163 centimetres in diameter. The Grove is dedicated to the memory of the men and women of the New Zealand Forest Service who died in the two World Wars.

The Redwoods Gift Shop and Visitor Centre is the place to go for all your track maps and forest information.

The Redwoods friendly shop staff can help you make the most of your unique forest experience with up to date information and advice. It is also the perfect place to find an extra-special keepsake, to remind you of your visit to the Redwoods, Whakarewarewa Forest.

The Gift Shop features an extensive range of quality handcrafted native wooden gifts, one of the largest and most superb selections in New Zealand. There is also a wonderful range of gifts inspired by nature…from postcards, natural skin care products, to books, puzzles, glass ware, jewellery, toys and stationery.

Other facilities available include:

• Mountain bike tracks
• Orienteering courses
• Outdoor function facilities
• Meeting Room Hire
• Educational group guided tours – bookings essential
• Multi sport venue

For more information visit the team at The Redwoods Gift Shop & Visitor Centre on Long Mile Road, call 07 350 0110, e-mail redwoods@rdc.govt.nz or visit www.redwoods.co.nz