National Forest Parks
forests tussocklands and river valleys
Taupo and the surrounding region has some of the most awe-inspiring exciting natural landscapes in the world. The Tongariro National Park is the oldest national park in New Zealand and a world heritage site. It has active volcanic mountains Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe and Tongariro, where maori have many religious and sacred sites. It is a rough and unstable enviroment of tussocklands, shrublands, forests and high altitudes of gravel and stones.
The Kaimanawa Forest Park lies to the south of Taupo and is reknown for its beautiful river valleys, wide tussock terrain, grassy flats and gorges. Explore the Pureroa Forest Park, one of the finest examples of rainforest, rich in bird life and ash buried ancient forests. The Whirinaki rainforest is a fascinating and educational eco-cultural experience. The natural wilderness of these parks can be seen by tramping, climbing, bike and scenic flights or take the oportunity to trout fish, hunt, horse trek and study the flora and fauna. This is a wonderous natural enviroment.
