Whirinaki Forest Footsteps: An In-Depth Walking Tour Review

Right, so, you know, dreaming of stepping away from the ordinary? New Zealand is very full of incredible landscapes, and maybe you’re looking at the Whirinaki Forest. The forest, really, is an untouched green spot on the North Island, very far away from things. I was searching for a deep connection with nature, and I very much got that here.

Why Choose Whirinaki Forest? A Walk Amongst Giants

Well, so, what makes the Whirinaki Forest Footsteps Guided Walking Tour stand out? You know, I guess for me, it’s a bit different compared to just some, you know, other hike. Like your average stroll, really. We are talking about getting taken back in time in an ancient rainforest filled very much with huge trees, unusual plants, plus Maori stories around every turn. It’s actually walking in an area which has plants, trees and birdlife that’s basically unchanged since before people arrived in Aotearoa. Pretty cool, right? Your everyday tourist trap, it is not.

Also, basically, what is amazing is the trees! Towering podocarps touch the sky and that too, its almost as if each tree contains countless rings of histories. If you like history and natural spots of quiet and wonder, the area, I would suggest, has an unbeatable, almost spiritual aura. Add to this, like your know, the skill of knowledgable guides, very able to open a window into Maori life, and the choice actually seems, seemingly, a pretty solid one.

Preparing for Your Footsteps Walk: What to Expect

So, too it’s almost worth discussing preparation, eh? I guess, this, actually, isn’t your walk around the block, even though you dont need a heap of special equipment, being well ready could just make it really much more of a success. Expect to do about five to six hours moving through the jungle-like forest on paths and over rocks and roots, that may become wet after recent rain.

In fact, walking boots which support your ankles could actually stop sore ankles and a light rain proof over-layer should be your best pal during short bursts of rain. We found basically, it really is vital for a dry and cozy experience, it almost seems to matter how nice it looks before setting off. Very very don’t forget basic supplies – some bottled water, maybe just a little energy bar – just in case!

Basically, a small rucksack might too allow for somewhere to stash water proofs if the skies look a little better, plus give extra space for insect repellent (there maybe just a few sandflies), suncream and a basic medical kit (just in case!). You may also want to take money with you: basically, at the nearby visitor center. The closest shop is a bit away, and maybe you’ll be tempted to buy just a little something to support local conservation at the forest.

The Experience: Maori Culture and Forest Immersion

Actually, my visit? I felt, like your know, an engagement in the forests unique biodviersity along side being really, actually, immersed in Maori mythology – two really very standout components to it all. Our walk almost starts by learning about Maori concepts about our relationship with the area of trees. And as our tour unfolded, in the end, my tour group and myself got a much bigger admiration of just how deep Maori heritage gets at Whirinaki Forest Park.

The tour leads maybe touch on things that happened historically that relate in the forests story (you hear also around local efforts relating to conservancy) as you enjoy short strolls among massive, stunning Kahikatea, Totara, Rimu or Matai trees. We passed many waterfalls, too; a bit noisy during wetter conditions but usually nice.

So, after having worked up just a little bit of energy after passing one of Whirinaki’s many flowing bodies (a fast one might almost become an actual swimming spot on sunny summer days), we had our meal by a remote stream as part of our exploration! A truly tasty sandwich and sweet snack. And yet, to me, there comes more enjoyment from having lunch outdoors close to unspoiled spots like those at Whirinaki, which could mean your lunch might almost taste delicious anyway!

Photographing Whirinaki: Tips for Capturing the Magic

Then, do you want some advice concerning capturing images whilst seeing Whirinaki?! You know, the forests light gives certain conditions for both upcoming along side skilled shooters! Pack equipment (such as waterproof housing) for protecting items from rain plus remember to be patient: as you too try spotting the best angle in different kinds to light.

Plus, as light seeps through foliage during warmer and better days? Well so, play around alongside those beams since the sunshine filters though! Attempt photographing very little scenes also! Little leaf or small flower heads create outstanding zoomed in subject points when photographed with Whirinaki providing that stunning back ground.

Oh, and also a little word when trying getting animals inside photo shots. Now it takes patience with calmness being crucial whenever you are wanting anything, to approach nearer for clearer shots. Birds found in parks could almost behave cautious at louder disturbing sounds too so remember keep things calm. Having spare battery options might keep your photography alive whilst out across Whirinaki because taking photos could take juice – keep backup charged.

Booking Your Tour: Details and Recommendations

Right then, booking might very become pretty crucial and something to research while planning! The company does run daily tour options from Rotorua plus, too, close local pick up locations, they always give prompt efficient replies and therefore are highly recommended!

Booking tickets can basically just get carried out either online or even with a quick phone booking although keep to local times and booking conditions as peak seasons probably tend get packed pretty fast! Tour rates fluctuate with respect time length trip distances even when all tours tend provide unparalleled forest insight its suggested taking trip choice according length endurance even interest towards forest deep dive information.

As one goes ahead arranging a particular package I highly advocate validating conditions that might usually effect things such changing route because temporary wood decline potentially. Lastly also consider making trip insurance just incase issues arise just incase prior forest entrance something arises.

Also, there actually are loads lodgings nearby; Rotorua has some quite excellent locations, along side just many beautiful locations close if anyone decides staying elsewhere than city. To enjoy what this land gives with pride also I encourage support, where capable by purchasing gift pieces and also donating funds, into close parks, just towards enabling our natural areas with eco living throughout generations – pretty essential that, honestly.

Final Thoughts: Is the Whirinaki Forest Footsteps Tour Worth It?

To finish, could the “Whirinaki Forest Footsteps” warrant consideration and more than enough time spent, yeah probably they may, very much; for nature admirers and for the person ready wanting immersion throughout unspoiled forests! Experiencing unique botany while joining cultural depth provides trips, that really, give experiences which are very memorable.

The memories left behind just come with some deep understanding of conservation work so actually these memories shall linger over leaving tourists a fresh admiration that basically could make people keep looking following trips back close in time, even during day dream. Right. Well, its safe I will strongly suggest it!