November is the ideal month to enjoy the lush beauty of New Zealand’s Rotorua bush walks. In the Central North Island, Rotorua is known for its iconic geothermal landscapes and beautiful forests.
Here at Rotorua Canopy Tours, we believe in the magic of experiencing New Zealand’s native forests up close – from walking trails that wind through ancient trees to soaring high above the forest floor on our zipline adventure.
1. Rotorua Canopy Tours – A Bird’s-Eye View & Native Bush Walk
If you want to experience New Zealand’s native bush in a way you’ll never forget, Rotorua Canopy Tours is the ultimate adventure. Our guided zipline tour offers a thrilling journey through the forest canopy; it’s more than just adrenaline – between zip lines, our guides lead you on a native bush walk, sharing fascinating insights into the forest’s history, conservation efforts, and native wildlife. This is Rotorua’s bush walk at its most vibrant – and you’ll see it from both the ground and the sky!
2. Whakarewarewa Forest (Redwoods Forest), Rotorua
The Whakarewarewa Forest, affectionately known as the Redwoods Forest, is one of Rotorua’s most iconic bush walks. The Redwoods Memorial Grove Track is an easy loop and a beautiful introduction to the native bush. Try the Redwoods Treewalk at night for a unique view – the forest is illuminated, adding a magical touch to the towering trees.
3. Blue Lake (Tikitapu) and Green Lake (Rotokakahi) Walks
The Blue and Green Lakes offer beautiful, family-friendly bush walks just a short drive from central Rotorua. The Blue Lake Loop Track is a gentle 5.5-kilometer trail that wraps around Tikitapu, offering views of its famous turquoise waters. Close by is Green Lake, or Rotokakahi, which can be admired from the scenic lookout. This area is peaceful, accessible, and incredibly stunning and you can bring your fur babies on this Rotorua bush walk!
4. Rainbow Mountain Scenic Reserve
Are you looking for a Rotorua bush walk that offers panoramic views? The Rainbow Mountain Scenic Reserve takes you through native bush, geothermal landscapes, and up to a lookout with sweeping views over Rotorua. Along the way, you’ll encounter native plants, colourful geothermal soil, and a unique landscape that makes this one of the region’s standout bush walk tracks.
5. Tarawera Trail, Lake Tarawera
Another favourite in Rotorua, the Tarawera Trail, leads you through native bush to Hot Water Beach on the edge of Lake Tarawera. It’s a 15-kilometre track that combines geothermal features, lake views, and a final destination worth every step. Spring is great for tackling this trail as the temperatures are mild, and there’s nothing better than soaking your feet in naturally heated lake water after a good bush walk!
6. Ruakuri Bushwalk, Waitomo (Worth the Drive!)
If you’re up for a small road trip, the Ruakuri Bushwalk near Waitomo is one of the best night bush walks in the region. This easy track weaves through native forest and limestone formations, with glowworms lighting up the way after dark. Warmer evenings make it the ideal time for this magical experience – a bit of extra adventure for your trip!
7. Okere Falls Track
Close to Rotorua, the Okere Falls Track is another short and beautiful Rotorua bush walk. It follows the Kaituna River and passes several spectacular waterfalls. At just 3 kilometres, this trail is accessible, scenic, and perfect for a peaceful stroll. Spring rains bring extra flow to the falls so you can expect a dramatic display and vibrant green surrounds.
Ready to Experience the Best of Rotorua’s Native Bush?
Whether you’re seeking heart-racing adventure or a peaceful forest stroll, Rotorua has a bush walk for everyone. Pair your chosen trail with a zipline tour through the forest canopy for a truly unforgettable day of adventure that everyone can enjoy!
