Whakarewarewa Forest

Just along the road from Te Puia is Whakarewarewa Forest. The Californian Redwood trees that dominate the forest here grow incredibly tall and straight which makes for wonderful forest scenery. I opted for the 11.5km purple route around the forest.

The route headed up towards the highest point of the forest and back down and around in a circular loop. I therefore didn't end up leaving until after 7 o'clock!

When I made it back to my hostel room I discovered a German guy called Aaron in the bunk next to me who I did the Tongariro Crossing with a few days ago!Read more