Te Urewera
Ancestral lands of the Tūhoe people and the largest native forest on New Zealand's North Island, a misty realm of mountains and forest with Lake Waikaremoana and its Great Walk.
Te Urewera was once a national park. Since 2014 it has been recognised under the Te Urewera Act as a legal entity in its own right, co-managed by the Tūhoe people and the government. It is the homeland of the 'Children of the Mist.' From Whakatāne, take State Highway 2 through Taneatua into the Ruatoki and Waimana Valley area for a half-day walk through the forest. Or follow State Highway 38 (partly gravel) deep into Ruatahuna, then continue south to Lake Waikaremoana and its lakeside track, one of New Zealand's Great Walks (3–4 days). The drive to the lake takes about 3 hours one way, and you will need to overnight at the lake or in Wairoa. There is no mobile signal in the mountains, so fill up with fuel before setting out and check DOC road conditions.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Ōhiwa Harbour
- Ōhope Scenic Reserve
- Awakeri Hot Springs
- Ōhope Beach
- Mataatua Wharenui
- Ngā Tapuwae o Toi / Kohi Point Walkway
- Wairaka Statue (Lady on the Rock)
- Moutohorā (Whale Island)