WALKS

Rimu Loop Bush Walk
45 min return | Easy
Starting in the carpark, the rimu loop walk starts on the carpark edge, on the opposite side of the road to the shelter. It is a gently graded walk that features some giant rimu trees, and finishes back at the road, a hundred or so meters northwest of the starting point.

Summit Track
2 hours return | Moderate
The loop track to the summit (an extinct volcano) is steep in parts. It starts behind the shelter and the view from the top is worth the climb. A tower constructed on the summit (645 metres) offers panoramic views from East Cape to Mount Tarawera and Rotorua, and across the Mamaku Plateau to Mount Ruapehu.

Whataroa Waterfall
2 hours return | Moderate
Whataroa waterfall is a popular swimming hole and picnic spot. For the slightly more agile, a well-marked route branches off the rimu loop track after 15 minutes and undulates through the forest to the Whataroa Falls. Explore this lovely stream with cascades and pools before returning the same way. Beyond the waterfall this track goes north to the main ridge track which leads to Otawa Scenic Reserve. It is around 18.5 km or 9 hours to Upper Papamoa Road.

Birds at Ōtanewainuku
Take time to stop along the Rimu Loop Track and you are likely to see the North Island Bush Robin, fantails, tui and may be lucky to hear kōkako calling.

School or Group Walks
Information panels are placed along the track to help identify native species, ideal for school or family walks. Although a gentle walk, this track is NOT suitable for prams or wheelchairs. You can book a guided walk to the Ōtanewainuku Forest for your group.