Redwoods Treewalk Rotorua - a close up of a tree trunk in a forest
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Redwoods Treewalk Rotorua

4.6
·13k reviews·Rotorua, New Zealand

Walk among ancient giants on suspension bridges, experiencing the magic of a redwood forest by day and a lantern-lit wonderland by night.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings (after sunset)

Magical lantern-lit forest

CrowdMedium
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Redwoods Treewalk Rotorua - a close up of a tree trunk in a forest

Redwoods Treewalk Rotorua

Best Time

Evenings (after sunset)

Magical lantern-lit forest

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Walk among ancient giants on suspension bridges, experiencing the magic of a redwood forest by day and a lantern-lit wonderland by night.

4.6
(13k reviews)

"The Day & Night Combo is the best way to experience the Redwoods Treewalk because it shows you two sides of the same forest."

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TIP

✨ Book the Night Walk

The night walk is a magical, different experience with enchanting lights. Highly recommended!

🚶‍♀️ Free Ground Level Walks

Enjoy the majestic redwoods from the forest floor for free. Great for a budget-friendly stroll.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Suspension Bridges Among Giants

Suspension Bridges Among Giants

Elevated walkways

Walk high among 120-year-old redwood trees on 28 unique suspension bridges.

Enchanting Nighttime Illumination

Enchanting Nighttime Illumination

Elevated walkways at night

Experience a magical forest transformed by hundreds of soft, artistic lanterns.

Daytime Tranquility

Daytime Tranquility

Elevated walkways during the day

Appreciate the serene beauty and towering majesty of the ancient redwood forest.

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Planning Your Visit

Day vs. Night: A Tale of Two Forests

Experience the Redwoods Treewalk Rotorua in two distinct ways. Daytime offers a tranquil immersion in nature, while nighttime transforms into a magical wonderland with enchanting lights. Consider the combo for a truly unforgettable adventure.Reddit

Free Exploration vs. Ticketed Adventure

While walking among the base of the giant redwoods is free and beautiful, the elevated Treewalk requires a ticket. Booking ahead is recommended, especially for the popular night walks, to secure your spot.Reddit

Best Times

When
Evenings (after sunset)
Why
Magical lantern-lit forest
Crowd
Medium
When
Daytime
Why
Peaceful nature immersion
Crowd
Medium
When
Day & Night Combo
Why
Experience two worlds
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Rotorua - what are some cool things to do there that don't break the bank?

✨ Book the Night Walk

The night walk is a magical, different experience with enchanting lights. Highly recommended! Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Free Ground Level Walks

Enjoy the majestic redwoods from the forest floor for free. Great for a budget-friendly stroll. Reddit

reddit.com

Rotorua adventures

reddit.com

Redwoods Forest

📸 Night Photo Tips

Taking photos at night can be tricky without flash, but the beautiful lights are worth it. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be walking on elevated bridges, so wear comfortable footwear for the best experience.

reddit.com

Redwoods Forest (night)

Tips

from all over the internet

✨ Book the Night Walk

The night walk is a magical, different experience with enchanting lights. Highly recommended! Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Free Ground Level Walks

Enjoy the majestic redwoods from the forest floor for free. Great for a budget-friendly stroll. Reddit

📸 Night Photo Tips

Taking photos at night can be tricky without flash, but the beautiful lights are worth it. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be walking on elevated bridges, so wear comfortable footwear for the best experience.

🍎 Bring Snacks

Pack some snacks, especially if you're visiting with family, to keep energy levels up. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(13k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Redwoods Treewalk Rotorua, especially the magical nighttime experience illuminated by artistic lanterns. The contrast between the serene daytime forest and the enchanting night walk makes it a highly recommended highlight for many. While the ground-level walks are free and beautiful, the elevated Treewalk offers a unique perspective.

"I booked the Day & Night Combo, and it turned out to be one of the most memorable highlights of my trip. Experiencing the forest in both daylight and after dark felt like visiting two completely different worlds.

🌞 Daytime Walk

The daytime walk was calm, refreshing, and a chance to truly appreciate the natural beauty of the towering redwoods. Walking along the suspension bridges, high among the treetops, gave me a unique perspective of the forest floor below and the incredible height of the trees above. The light filtering through the canopy created a peaceful atmosphere, and I had plenty of time to slow down and soak it all in.

The design features along the walk — including the wooden lanterns and artistic touches — blended seamlessly with the lush ferns and native plants. Even in daylight, these installations added colour and character to the natural landscape.

🌌 Nighttime Walk

Once the sun went down, the forest completely transformed. Hundreds of lanterns designed by David Trubridge lit up the night in intricate patterns and soft glows, giving the forest an enchanting, almost magical feel. Walking across the bridges at night felt like entering a fantasy world — glowing shapes hanging among the trees, a giant illuminated bird in flight, and the forest floor bathed in vibrant lighting.

What I loved most was the contrast: during the day, it’s about appreciating nature’s raw beauty; at night, it’s about immersing yourself in an art installation that brings the forest alive in a new and unexpected way.

💡 Overall

The Day & Night Combo is the best way to experience the Redwoods Treewalk because it shows you two sides of the same forest — one tranquil and grounding, the other magical and dreamlike. The staff were welcoming, the walkways felt safe but adventurous, and the entire experience was well worth it.

Highly recommended: If you’re in Rotorua, this is an absolute must-do."

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"The Nighttime Redwood Tree Walk on New Zealand's North Island is a magical experience. As you stroll along the elevated walkways, the towering redwoods are beautifully illuminated, creating a serene and enchanting atmosphere. The sounds of nature blend with the gentle lights, making it a perfect escape into the forest at night. The walk is suitable for all ages and offers a unique perspective on these majestic trees. It's a must-visit for anyone looking to connect with nature in a captivating way."

Koebyn Gillespie

"Beautiful serene place to hike. We loved it. It was free to walk the grounds. If you want the tree walk you can sign up for it. Lots to do with the kids. Bring snacks."

Zainul Saigar

What People Like

Magical night walk
Enchanting lantern lights
Unique treetop perspective

What People Dislike

Night photos challenging

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Redwoods Treewalk Rotorua is located in the Whakarewarewa Forest, a short drive from Rotorua's city center. Many visitors drive and find parking available. Public transport options might be limited, so checking local bus routes or considering a taxi/rideshare is advisable. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available at the Redwoods Treewalk Rotorua. It's a good idea to arrive a bit early, especially during peak times, to secure a spot. Reddit

While it's possible to walk, it's a significant distance from Rotorua's city center. Driving or taking a short taxi ride is generally more convenient. Reddit

Public transport options to the Redwoods Treewalk can be limited. It's best to check the latest Rotorua bus schedules or consider alternative transport like taxis or rideshares for ease of access. Reddit

Rotorua is accessible by car, bus, and has an airport (Rotorua Airport - ROT) with domestic flights. If coming from further afield, flying into Auckland Airport (AKL) and then taking a bus or domestic flight to Rotorua is common. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The cost varies depending on whether you choose a daytime walk, a nighttime walk, or the combo. Prices are generally reasonable, and booking online in advance is recommended, especially for the popular night walks. Check their official website for current pricing. Reddit

It is highly recommended to book your tickets in advance, particularly for the popular nighttime walks, to guarantee your entry and preferred time slot. Reddit

Yes, you can typically purchase tickets for the daytime walk, the nighttime walk, or a combo ticket that includes both experiences. The night walk is often highlighted as a must-do. Reddit

Walking on the ground level of the redwood forest is free and offers a beautiful experience. However, accessing the elevated suspension bridges of the Treewalk requires a paid ticket. Reddit

Opening hours vary between day and night walks. The daytime walk is generally open during daylight hours, while the night walk operates after sunset. It's best to check the official Redwoods Treewalk Rotorua website for the most up-to-date hours. Reddit

🎫 🌲 Onsite Experience

The Redwoods Treewalk Rotorua offers a unique perspective of the ancient redwood forest from elevated suspension bridges. During the day, it's a peaceful nature walk. At night, it transforms into a magical experience with artistic lantern illuminations. Reddit

Yes, the Redwoods Treewalk is generally suitable for children. The walkways are safe, and the experience can be magical for younger visitors, especially the night walk. Reddit

The time it takes can vary depending on your pace and how long you stop to admire the views. Most visitors spend around 45 minutes to an hour on the Treewalk itself. Reddit

Absolutely! Photography is encouraged. The daytime offers beautiful natural light, while the nighttime walk provides a unique opportunity for atmospheric shots with the lanterns. Reddit

Comfortable walking shoes are a must. Dress in layers as the forest can be cooler than the surrounding areas. For the night walk, bring a light jacket. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Both day and night offer unique photographic opportunities. Daytime provides clear views of the towering trees and forest floor. Nighttime is magical with the illuminated lanterns, creating an enchanting atmosphere. Reddit

It can be challenging to take clear photos without flash due to the low light conditions. However, the beautiful lantern lights create a unique, atmospheric mood that is worth capturing. Reddit

For night photography, consider using a tripod if possible to stabilize your shots. Experiment with longer exposure times and a higher ISO, but be mindful of noise. Many visitors find their phone cameras capture the ambiance well. Reddit

The entire Treewalk offers stunning vantage points. Look for areas where the lanterns are clustered or where you can frame the towering trees with the illuminated walkways. The giant illuminated bird is also a popular photo subject. Reddit

While you can use a flash, it might detract from the magical ambiance created by the lanterns and could disturb other visitors' experiences. It's often better to rely on the ambient light or use a tripod for longer exposures. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Redwoods Treewalk Rotorua is a fantastic outing for families. The elevated walkways are safe and provide an exciting adventure for children, allowing them to feel like they're exploring a different world among the trees. The night walk is particularly magical for kids, with the enchanting lanterns creating a fairy-tale atmosphere. Reddit

While the Treewalk itself is ticketed, the surrounding forest offers free walking paths that are also great for families. Packing snacks is a good idea to keep little ones energized. The experience is generally accessible and offers a unique way to connect with nature that appeals to all ages. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Budget travelers can still enjoy the magnificent redwoods by taking advantage of the free ground-level walking trails within Whakarewarewa Forest. These paths offer stunning views of the towering trees and a peaceful nature experience without any cost. Reddit

If your budget allows for a splurge, consider the Day & Night Combo ticket for the Redwoods Treewalk. It offers two distinct and memorable experiences, providing excellent value for the unique perspectives you gain. Booking in advance can sometimes offer better rates. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The Redwoods Treewalk Rotorua is a photographer's dream, offering distinct opportunities during both day and night. Daytime provides opportunities for capturing the scale of the ancient trees and the lush forest details. The night walk, however, is where the real magic happens for photographers. Reddit

The artistic lantern illuminations create a surreal and enchanting atmosphere, perfect for capturing unique, moody shots. While low-light photography can be challenging, the results can be incredibly rewarding. Consider bringing a tripod for sharper images and experimenting with longer exposures to capture the glow of the lanterns and the silhouettes of the trees. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Magic of the Night Walk

The Redwoods Treewalk Rotorua night walk is a truly enchanting experience that transforms the familiar forest into a wonderland. As dusk settles, hundreds of artistic lanterns, designed by David Trubridge, begin to glow, casting intricate patterns and soft light throughout the canopy. This illumination creates a magical and almost surreal atmosphere, making you feel as though you've stepped into a fairy tale. The gentle glow highlights the immense scale of the redwood trees in a completely new way, offering a serene yet captivating visual spectacle. Reddit

Visitors often describe the night walk as a completely different experience from the daytime visit. The quiet of the evening, combined with the soft, ambient lighting, fosters a sense of peace and wonder. It's a chance to immerse yourself in the forest's natural beauty, enhanced by thoughtful artistic installations. The walkways feel safe and adventurous, allowing you to explore at your own pace and capture unique photographs of this illuminated natural spectacle. Reddit

Many reviewers highly recommend the night walk, with some even suggesting it's the highlight of their Rotorua trip. The contrast between the daytime appreciation of nature and the nighttime immersion in an art installation is what makes the Redwoods Treewalk Rotorua night experience so memorable. It's an opportunity to connect with nature in a profoundly beautiful and unexpected way. Reddit

Daytime Serenity and Natural Beauty

During the day, the Redwoods Treewalk Rotorua offers a calm and refreshing escape into the heart of a magnificent redwood forest. The elevated walkways provide a unique vantage point, allowing you to appreciate the sheer height and grandeur of these ancient trees from a different perspective. Sunlight filters through the dense canopy, creating a dappled light effect that enhances the peaceful ambiance of the forest floor below. It’s an ideal setting for a leisurely stroll and a chance to truly connect with nature's tranquility. Reddit

The design of the Treewalk itself is thoughtfully integrated into the natural environment. Wooden lanterns and artistic touches blend seamlessly with the lush ferns and native plants, adding subtle layers of beauty without detracting from the forest's raw appeal. This daytime experience is about appreciating the natural beauty and the grounding presence of the towering redwoods. It’s a perfect opportunity for quiet contemplation and to soak in the serene atmosphere of one of Rotorua's most iconic natural attractions. Reddit

Even though the ground-level forest walk is free, many visitors find the ticketed Treewalk experience to be well worth it for the elevated views and the chance to be truly immersed among the treetops. It’s a gentle adventure suitable for all ages, offering a peaceful respite and a chance to marvel at the enduring majesty of the redwood giants. Reddit

Exploring the Redwoods on Foot (Free Option)

For those looking for a more budget-friendly experience, the Whakarewarewa Forest (where the Redwoods Treewalk is located) offers extensive free walking trails at ground level. These paths wind through the base of the towering redwood trees, allowing you to marvel at their immense size and age up close. It's a fantastic way to experience the grandeur of the forest without purchasing a ticket for the elevated Treewalk. Reddit

These free trails are well-maintained and provide a wonderful opportunity for a leisurely walk, a jog, or simply a peaceful moment surrounded by nature. You can still appreciate the scale of the redwood trees and the lush undergrowth, making it a rewarding experience for nature lovers. Many visitors enjoy combining a free ground-level walk with the ticketed Treewalk for a comprehensive exploration of the forest. Reddit

Remember to wear comfortable shoes and perhaps bring some water and snacks, especially if you plan on spending a longer time exploring the various paths within the forest. It’s a great way to enjoy the natural beauty of Rotorua and get a feel for the impressive redwood environment. Reddit

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