Last updated July 2026
The Redwood Memorial Grove Track is a popular 2 km loop through the iconic stand of Californian coastal redwoods in Whakarewarewa Forest, Rotorua. Planted in 1901, the trees now reach approximately 67 metres in height and create a striking cathedral-like setting. The track is free, takes 30–40 minutes at a relaxed pace, and suits all ages including those with pushchairs. A boardwalk section crosses an old thermal pond, adding a geothermal element typical of the Rotorua area.
Practical Information
| Distance | 2 km loop |
| Time | 30–40 minutes |
| Grade | Grade 1 — Easy; flat to gently undulating |
| Start / Finish | Redwoods Visitor Centre, Long Mile Road, off Tarawera Road, Rotorua |
| Surface | Well-formed path and boardwalk |
| Suitability | All ages; pushchairs; most wheelchairs on the main path; dogs on leash |
| Cost | Free — the grove and walking tracks are public access |
| Parking | Free car parking at the Redwoods Visitor Centre; gates open from 5.30am |
| Facilities | Toilets, café, visitor information, Redwoods Treewalk (ticketed separately) |
| Getting there | Approximately 10 minutes by car from central Rotorua |
About the Redwood Memorial Grove Track
The Redwood Memorial Grove Track provides an accessible introduction to Whakarewarewa Forest. The well-formed path winds through the heart of the redwood stand on compacted earth and gravel, with a boardwalk crossing a shallow geothermally heated pond that supports aquatic plant life. Colour-coded red on the forest maps, this is the shortest and easiest of the marked walking tracks from the Visitor Centre.
The Redwood Grove History
The grove originated in 1901 as part of experimental forestry trials to test exotic species for commercial use in New Zealand. The coastal redwoods outperformed other plantings and were preserved rather than harvested commercially. The area was later dedicated as a memorial to New Zealand Forest Service personnel who died in the First and Second World Wars. The trees create a shaded, quiet environment largely free of undergrowth, with the straight trunks rising high before branching into the canopy.
Connecting Tracks and Nearby Experiences
The Memorial Grove Track connects directly to longer options in the same network. The Waitawa Walk (blue markers, 3.4 km) extends through the redwoods and into Douglas fir stands, while the Quarry Lookout Track (green markers, 4.8 km) climbs to views over the old quarry, the grove, Rotorua city and Lake Rotorua. The Redwoods Visitor Centre also serves as the starting point for the extensive mountain bike trail network and the separate, ticketed Redwoods Treewalk canopy experience.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors frequently describe the grove as peaceful and awe-inspiring, with the towering trees creating a memorable, almost cathedral-like atmosphere that photographs beautifully. Many appreciate the easy, family-friendly nature of the short loop and note how accessible it feels for all ages.
Reviewers often highlight the boardwalk over the thermal pond as a nice added feature and recommend combining the walk with a visit to the Treewalk for a different perspective above the canopy. The free access and proximity to central Rotorua are commonly praised as convenient bonuses.
Where to Learn More
The Redwoods – Short Walks: official details and maps for the Memorial Grove Track and other easy walks in Whakarewarewa Forest.
Redwoods Treewalk – The Forest: background on the redwood grove and the elevated canopy walkway experience.
Rotorua NZ – Whakarewarewa Forest Walking Trails: visitor information covering all Redwoods walking tracks and connections.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Redwood Memorial Grove Track free?
Yes, walking the ground-level grove and tracks is free. The Redwoods Treewalk is a separate, ticketed experience.
How long does the Memorial Grove Track take?
Around 30–40 minutes at a relaxed pace for the 2 km loop at low gradient.
Is it suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs?
The main path is pram-friendly and suitable for most wheelchairs, though the boardwalk section is narrower.
Are dogs allowed?
Dogs are permitted on a leash.
When were the redwoods planted?
In 1901 as part of experimental forestry trials. The grove was later dedicated as a memorial to Forest Service personnel who died in the two World Wars.
How tall are the redwoods?
Approximately 67 metres, among the tallest trees in the North Island.
Can I continue to other tracks from the Memorial Grove?
Yes, the Waitawa Walk (3.4 km, blue markers) and Quarry Lookout Track (4.8 km, green markers) both connect from the same area.
What are the opening hours for parking?
Car park gates at the Redwoods are open from 5.30am to late.
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