The Urewera National Park of New Zealand
Urewera National Park, the largest national park in the North
Island of New Zealand, is situated in the east Hawke's Bay and
Bay of Plenty. The park rests among rugged mountain and forest
terrain where some of the most endangered New Zealand native birds
abide, such as the kaka, blue duck, kokako and the kiwi. These
birds find refuge in the park's grand, untouched forest land.
Since the park's development in 1954, it's territory has
dramatically expanded from its original 49,000 hectares
(122,500 acres) to a vast 213,000 hectares (532,500 acres).
The park is also the largest native forest in the North Island
and is divided by a variety of forest characteristics. The
lowland forests, located in the northern area of the park, have
an abundance of ferns, vines and tall rimu. In the higher
elevations of the park are rainforests, which contain quite
a bit of swamp area.
More common types of forests can be found in the deep valleys
or gorges, where there's more soil. The most podocarp trees
can be seen in these areas.
Lakes and Waterfalls
Two lakes called Lake Waikaremoana and Lake Waikareiti, are
both main recreational attractions at Urewera National Park. Each
lake is thought to have derived from massive landslides many
years ago. Tranquil waterfalls can be seen along many streams
that flow into Lake Waikaremoana while taking a walk through
the park. Waterfalls can easily be accessed for enjoying relaxing
sights and sounds while visiting the park.
The Park's Climate
The climate varies from one area of the forest to another,
with the north typically being milder than the southern
areas of the terrain.
Things to Do While Visiting Urewera National Park
A number of activities can be enjoyed while touring the
park. For hikers, there are numerous tracks and paths
which lead deep into the park. The Onepoto Caves, a
group of overhangs and caves which were developed from a
landslide, make a spectacular sight while hiking. Many
trails lead to waterfalls and nature scenes of beautiful
New Zealand birds such as parakeets, robins, pigeons and
fantails.
There are short walks and longer, three-to-four day trails
where camping accessories will be needed. One of the
longer trails is the track leading to Lake Waikaremoana,
which goes along the western shore of the lake. Bird watchers
will love this trail. From the lake, another trail leads to the
highest peek of the park, where the volcanoes Tongariro
and Ruapehu can be viewed when the weather is clear.
Fishing is another favorite recreation of park visitors.
Lake Waikaremoana is known for its rainbow and brown trout.
The most abundant fishing areas do require some hiking to
reach the lake.
Hunting and canoeing are two other popular activities.
Hunting pigs and goats is encouraged in the park, but does
require a permit which can be issued at the visitor's center.
Whether visiting the park for its wildlife or spectacular
view, there's something enjoyable for every member of
the family.
Written by Candice Pardue
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