Two Iconic Rotorua Forests, Two Ways to Experience the Wild
If you’re heading to Rotorua for Nduro’s Run the Forest, you’re already in for one of the region’s most loved outdoor experiences. The Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest is famous for a reason: sweeping trails, towering exotic trees, and that unbeatable feeling of freedom under the canopy. It’s one of the top trail running destinations in New Zealand.
But just a few kilometres away lies another forest experience — wilder, older, and native to Aotearoa.
Welcome to Rotorua Canopy Tours, home to the untouched Ōkoheriki Forest and one of the most unique adventures you’ll find in Rotorua.
From Trail Running to Tree-Top Flying
Whether you’ve just finished the race or are planning a future Rotorua escape, switching up the pace and heading into the trees is an epic way to explore more of what this region offers. At Rotorua Canopy Tours, you’ll soar through an ancient native forest on ziplines, cliff walks, and swing bridges. It’s not just a thrill — it’s a journey through a forest that time almost forgot.
And while much of Aotearoa’s native bush was cleared, this one was left untouched — quietly forgotten, until Rotorua Canopy Tours stepped in to help it thrive again. Every tour contributes directly to restoring this forest, bringing native birds and biodiversity back to life.
Rotorua’s Double Forest Experience
The Redwoods and Ōkoheriki are two very different sides of Rotorua’s forest story. One offers flowy runs and international acclaim. The other, a rare chance to experience what Aotearoa looked like before human impact — a dense, living native ecosystem full of birdsong, mossy trunks, and towering podocarps.
Whether you’re in town for the event or planning your next adventure, this is a chance to reconnect, to recover, and to celebrate your love of the outdoors with an experience that leaves a positive impact.
Best Post-Race Activities in Rotorua
If you’re looking for fun, active things to do in Rotorua after your trail run — or on your next visit — ziplining through Ōkoheriki is the perfect combo of rest and adventure.
Here’s why it works:
- Active recovery with a twist – low-impact movement through the forest canopy
- A unique way to connect – perfect for running mates, whānau or supporters
- Give back to nature – every booking funds native forest restoration
Whether you’re celebrating your race, enjoying a rest day, or just not ready to stop exploring, Rotorua Canopy Tours is ready for you. Learn more about our zipline experiences to find the one that suits your adventure style.
A Message to the Nduro Community
We love what Nduro Events stands for: people coming together to move through nature, test their limits, and connect with wild places. We’re proud to be part of the Rotorua adventure scene, and even prouder to share a forest that few people get to see — let alone fly through.
So if you’ve already run the forest — or plan to — why not fly it next?
Book your adventure and experience Rotorua’s native forest like never before.
FAQs for Nduro Runners Visiting Rotorua
What’s a good rest day activity after Run the Forest?
Rotorua Canopy Tours offers a zipline adventure through native forest — perfect for staying active without overloading tired legs.
Where is Rotorua Canopy Tours located?
We’re just a 10-minute drive from the Redwoods trailhead — easy to get to, and well worth the detour.
Can I do the zipline tour with my running group or supporters?
Yes! Our experiences are designed to be shared. The 400m tandem zipline is a guest favourite.
What makes Ōkoheriki forest special?
It’s one of the last untouched native forests in the region, and every guest who flies through it helps restore it. Expect towering trees, native birds, and real conservation in action.
Is this suitable for all fitness levels?
Totally. If you’ve run a trail race, you’re more than ready to zipline!