Fire and Forest
Volcanoes, surf and ancient forests
7 destinationsFrom the surf beaches of the Bay of Plenty into the middle of the North Island, where the ground still steams and the whole place is built on old volcanoes. Redwood forest, hot creeks you can sit in, and the best one day walk in the country.
Mt Maunganui
Kiwi Kids BottleThe Mount rises 232 metres above one of New Zealand's most beloved beaches — a short, rewarding climb that delivers views across Tauranga Harbour and out to the Pacific horizon. The base track circles the rocky headland at sea level, passing tidal pools and kelp-draped boulders. Above and below, it's the perfect combination of beach town energy and genuine outdoor effort.
Redwoods Rotorua
Kiwi Kids BottleHundreds of towering Californian redwoods form a cathedral-like canopy above some of the world's best mountain bike trails — and at dusk, illuminated treehouse walkways weave through the upper canopy in a way that borders on magical. The forest floor holds a stillness that sits in sharp contrast to Rotorua's geothermal bustle just down the road. Equal parts adventure playground and genuine natural wonder.
Kerosene Creek
A natural hot stream in the bush south of Rotorua where the water comes out warm all year round. There is a small waterfall you can sit under and a few pools to soak in, and the best part is it is completely free. Take your togs, keep your valuables close, and enjoy a hot soak in the middle of the forest.
Tongariro Crossing
New Zealand's most celebrated single-day walk crosses the flanks of an active volcano, passes vivid emerald crater lakes, and delivers relentless drama across 19.4 kilometres of raw volcanic landscape. The terrain shifts from steaming vents and lava rubble to brilliant blue-green pools in a way that feels genuinely other-worldly. Respect the conditions, start early, and earn one of the great walking days on earth.
Tama Lakes
Two brilliant blue crater lakes sitting high on the Tongariro plateau, framed by the volcanoes of Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu. The track out crosses open tussock country with huge mountain views the whole way, and the final climb up to the upper lake is well worth the effort. A proper day out in the alpine, so pack water, layers and decent shoes.
Huka Falls
Kiwi Kids BottleThe entire Waikato River is squeezed through a 15-metre canyon and hurled 11 metres into a pool of electric turquoise — one of the most powerful and photogenic waterfalls in the country, and it's just minutes from the car park. The sheer volume of white water and the surreal colour of the pool below make it look almost too dramatic to be real. Arrive early to beat the crowds and catch the falls in morning light.
Lake Taupo
Kiwi Kids BottleNew Zealand's largest lake fills the caldera of a supervolcano that erupted with world-altering force in 186 AD — the gleaming blue expanse looks serene but sits above one of the planet's most geologically active zones. The lake draws boaties, trout fishers, and swimmers, with the carved Māori rock drawings at Mine Bay best reached by kayak or cruise. Taupo town on the northern shore is the gateway to the entire Central Plateau.
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