Majestic trees dominate the landscapes of Wainuiomata’s forest parks, such as Remutaka Forest Park and Wainuiomata Regional Park.
Wainuiomata boasts several entrances to one of the largest podocarp rainforests in the southern North Island. While often overlooked by tourists, locals cherish the unique beauty of this part of New Zealand. The forest here is a treasure trove, with beech trees dominating the higher elevations and podocarps flourishing below. Among the diverse array of plant species are fern trees, nikau palms, lancewood, kawakawa, mānuka, kānuka, and kahikātoa. Towering above the canopy are the majestic emergent trees, including rimu, rata, tōtara, kahikatea, miro, mataī, hinau, rewarewa, pukatea, and maire, which earn their name by rising above the forest’s uppermost layer. These giants of the forest contribute to the area’s exceptional biodiversity and natural splendor.
