Te Urewera National Park

On Foot

For the nature lover who likes solitude, Te Urewera is paradise. Tracks by the lake reveal great fishing and bathing spots, and many follow old Maori tracks. Bird-watchers can catch glimpses of native species that are rare in other parts of the country, including the largest surviving population of Kokako. You might even spot native bats, green gecko, and skinks. The most popular walk is the Lake Waikaremoana Track, or Great Lake Walk, a three- to four-day tramp that mostly follows the Western Lake shore. The three- to four-day Manuoha-Sandy Track, takes you to the highest part of the park where on a clear day you can see the volcanoes of Tongariro National Park. Hikes are generally moderate to difficult.

On the Water

Take a canoe trip along the lake shore for a picnic or a spot of fishing. In this secluded green world birdsong and the insect chirps are often the only sounds. The adventurous can kayak to the remote spots around the lake. Kayaks and canoes can be hired at the Aniwaniwa Visitor Centre. The walk to Lake Waikareti, a much smaller lake that stands a thousand feet higher and is 2½ mi to the northeast, is one of the forest's finest.

On Horseback

Horse trekking is a magnificent way to take in the park, but options are fairly limited.

Ngahere Adventures Horse Treks. Ben and Sharon Hudson offer treks ranging from nine hours to overnight at about $160 to $200 per person. 07/312-9439. www.ngahereadventures.co.nz.

Eco-Tips

Park accommodations are quite limited, and most people camp in tents or campervans. There are a number of designated camping grounds that have facilities—usually mattresses, cold water on tap, wood fires, a wood-fired stove (some), and toilets connected to a cesspit. Overnight huts on the Great Lake walk have similar facilities. Eco-friendly tourists will use and respect these amenities, taking away their rubbish, and leaving as little evidence of their stay as possible. Never leave garbage on the tracks, around the lakes, or in the water. In the forest areas walkers should stick to the marked paths in order to avoid trampling or damaging vegetation. Birds nests must never be destroyed or eggs taken, and it is better that they are not approached at all.