Pureora Forest Park is an 78,000-hectare ancient rainforest west of Taupō — one of the largest intact tracts of native forest remaining in the North Island. Its giant tōtara, rimu, mātai, miro and kahikatea trees tower 40–60 metres, some standing for over 1,000 years. The park contains the geographic centre of the North Island and is home to rare birds, walking tracks and the renowned Timber Trail cycling route.
Practical Information
| Location | West of Taupō, via SH30 — approximately 1–1.5 hours from Taupō town |
| Size | 78,000 hectares |
| Key feature | Ancient podocarp forest — trees up to 1,500 years old |
| Managed by | Department of Conservation |
| Entry | Free public access to the park |
About the Forest
The forest at Pureora drapes the slopes of Mount Pureora, Mount Titiraupenga and Mount Pukeokahu — a range that marks the western edge of the Taupō volcanic plateau. The trees here belong to the ancient podocarp family that has existed since the time of the dinosaurs: tōtara, rimu, mātai, miro and kahikatea, many reaching 40–60 metres in height. The tallest tōtara in New Zealand has stood here for more than 1,500 years.
The park was established in 1978, largely as a result of sustained protests and iconic tree sittings by conservationists who camped in the canopy to stop logging operations — a campaign that became a landmark moment in New Zealand’s conservation history.
Birds
Pureora is one of the best places in the North Island to see and hear rare native birds. The kaka (bush parrot) is frequently spotted here, along with pīwakawaka (fantail) and the haunting call of the endangered kōkako (blue-wattled crow). The intact forest provides habitat that has been lost across much of the lowland North Island.
The Timber Trail
The Timber Trail is one of New Zealand’s Great Rides — an 85-kilometre multi-day cycling route running through Pureora Forest Park, connecting Pureora village to Tūmarunui through the ancient forest. The trail features suspension bridges above the forest canopy and is considered one of the most scenic cycle trails in the country. It takes 2–3 days and requires shuttles to manage the point-to-point route.
Walking Tracks
Short walks from Pureora village include the Pureora Summit Track (a climb to the Mount Pureora summit with canopy-level views) and several loop walks through the giant podocarp forest. These offer an accessible taste of the ancient forest without requiring the full Timber Trail commitment.
Where to Learn More
DOC — Pureora Forest Park
Department of Conservation page with tracks, camping, access and visitor information for Pureora Forest Park.
NZ Cycle Trail — Timber Trail
Official profile for the Timber Trail Great Ride through Pureora Forest Park with distances, grades and planning information.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Pureora Forest Park from Taupō?
About 80–90km west of Taupō, driving via SH30 through Mangakino. Allow 1–1.5 hours depending on route.
What is the Timber Trail?
An 85km, 2–3 day Great Ride cycling route through Pureora Forest Park, rated as one of New Zealand’s best cycle trails. It requires shuttles for the point-to-point route.
Can I see kōkako at Pureora?
Kōkako have been reintroduced to the Pureora area and are occasionally heard and seen, though sightings are not guaranteed. The forest is one of the better North Island locations to have a chance at seeing them.
Is Pureora suitable for a day trip from Taupō?
Yes — the short walking tracks around Pureora village make for a good day trip. The Timber Trail cycling route requires 2–3 days.
See also: Day trips from Taupō · Walking tracks · Cycling tracks in Taupō