Redwoods Forest Park
Forest of coastal redwoods near Auckland
Large stand of towering redwoods near Rotorua, widely used for mountain-biking, walking trails and photography beneath straight-trunked Californian trees.
Redwoods Forest at a Glance#
About Redwoods Forest#
The Redwoods Forest refers to the grove of tall Californian redwood trees in the Rotorua area, commonly called the Whakarewarewa Forest. It is known for its mature stands of redwoods, extensive walking tracks and a popular canopy walkway.
Visitors use a network of shaded walking paths, a large mountain-bike trail system and the elevated Treewalk attraction to experience the forest from ground level and among the tree crowns. The forest is popular for family walks, guided night walks and recreational cycling.
The redwood stands were planted in the early 20th century as exotic timber trials and have since matured into a distinctive forest within the region, managed for recreation and conservation.
The forest lies on the outskirts of Rotorua on New Zealand’s North Island, a short drive from the town centre and a common day-trip destination from the surrounding Bay of Plenty and central North Island tourist routes.
- Introduced redwoods: The grove consists of planted Californian redwoods established as exotic timber trials in the early 20th century; trees now form tall stands distinct from native New Zealand species.
- Canopy walkway access: The Treewalk is a canopy walkway offering elevated views through the redwood crowns; it is a separate attraction with its own access arrangements and opening hours.
What to See#
- Redwoods Treewalk: A suspended canopy walkway and platform network that gives elevated views through the redwood crowns and is a popular paid attraction within the forest.
- Walking trails: An extensive network of walking trails that wind among tall Californian redwoods and native understory, suitable for short walks and longer hikes.
- Mountain bike trails: A well-developed mountain bike trail network maintained for a range of skill levels, widely used by local and visiting riders.
How to Get to Redwoods Forest#
Multiple redwood stands are located within the greater Auckland area; the best-known are accessible by car from central Auckland within 30-60 minutes depending on the specific reserve. Some are reachable by local buses and regional cycling routes.
Tips for Visiting Redwoods Forest#
- The Redwood Forest (Auckland) has several walking circuits - ask at the Kumeu/Albany visitor points for lesser-known trails.
- Early morning is best to hear birdlife and enjoy shade during hot months.
- Respect posted signs - some areas are regenerating and fenced for protection.
Best Time to Visit Redwoods Forest#
A stand of redwood or redwood-style plantings in the Auckland region; an arboreal attraction for walkers and families.
Weather & Climate near Redwoods Forest#
Redwoods Forest's climate is classified as Oceanic - Oceanic climate with mild summers (peaking in January) and cold winters (coldest in July). Temperatures range from 3°C to 24°C. Abundant rainfall (1564 mm/year), wettest in March, distributed fairly evenly throughout the year.
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | - | 13° - 24° | 18° | 123 mm | - | - | 3.6 m/s | - | - |
| February | - | 13° - 24° | 18° | 111 mm | - | - | 3.3 m/s | - | - |
| March | - | 11° - 22° | 17° | 160 mm | - | - | 3.3 m/s | - | - |
| April | - | 8° - 19° | 14° | 110 mm | - | - | 3.4 m/s | - | - |
| May | - | 6° - 15° | 11° | 118 mm | - | - | 3.7 m/s | - | - |
| June | - | 4° - 13° | 6° | 148 mm | - | - | 3.5 m/s | - | - |
| July | - | 3° - 12° | 5° | 135 mm | - | - | 3.8 m/s | - | - |
| August | - | 4° - 13° | 6° | 156 mm | - | - | 3.9 m/s | - | - |
| September | - | 6° - 15° | 10° | 141 mm | - | - | 4.3 m/s | - | - |
| October | - | 7° - 18° | 12° | 120 mm | - | - | 4.3 m/s | - | - |
| November | - | 9° - 20° | 15° | 102 mm | - | - | 4.3 m/s | - | - |
| December | - | 11° - 22° | 17° | 140 mm | - | - | 4.2 m/s | - | - |
