Name: Wainuiomata Old Forest Walk - January
Start: 2026-01-17T23:00:00+13:00
End: 2026-01-18T03:00:00+13:00
Location: Wainuiomata Recreation Area

Explore ancient forests on a guided walk in Wainuiomata Regional Park
Step into a world few get to see. This exclusive guided walk takes you deep into a 1,000-year-old forest in Wainuiomata Regional Park—an area normally closed to the public. Wander beneath towering native rātā and rimu trees and discover a sanctuary for North Island brown kiwi and other native birds.
Led by one of our experienced park rangers, you’ll hear stories about the park’s natural heritage, conservation efforts, and the history that makes this place so special.
Registrations are extremely limited. Each walk is capped at just 20 participants, with a maximum of two registrations per person. If you’ve joined this event before, please consider letting someone else experience this unique opportunity.
Event Details:
Distance: Approx. 10 km, including river crossings
Fitness level: Moderate
Age: Not suitable for children under 14
What to bring: Lunch, snacks, water bottle, and appropriate clothing
To book: Due to the overwhelming popularity of these limited capacity events, we have now decided that the fairest way to allocate bookings is via a ballot system. A ballot will open for registrations via the link below at 10am on Monday 15 December and close at 10am on Wednesday 17 December. Names will then be drawn at random all applicants notified of the outcome by 4pm on Thursday 18 December.
Ballot opens 10am on 15 December: https://forms.office.com/r/VjcbzptXi3

Your adventure starts in regional parks.
Greater Wellington has been hosting recreational events like this for 25 years, helping people connect with nature, get active outdoors, and enjoy peaceful escapes close to home.
Wainuiomata Regional Park is not only a place of beauty—it’s a hub for conservation. Greater Wellington works here to protect freshwater, restore native habitats, preserve historic sites, and build resilience to climate change. Our partners and volunteers play a vital role in making this park a special place for everyone.