Aniwaniwa

Deep in the Raukūmara Range, Aniwaniwa is a serene clearing that feels like the last outpost before the wilderness takes over. This tiny settlement is the gateway to the Lake Waikaremoana Track, one of New Zealand's Great Walks, and is surrounded by ancient podocarp forest and the shimmering waters of Lake Waikaremoana. It's a place of profound quiet, where the only sounds are birdsong and the lapping of waves.

Highlights & What to See

• Lake Waikaremoana Great Walk: A 46 km multi-day tramp through pristine forest, with panoramic lake views and waterfalls. Book huts in advance.
• Te Urewera Visitor Centre: Learn about the area's rich Māori history and the unique legal status of Te Urewera as a living entity.
• Aniwaniwa Falls: A short walk from the car park leads to a powerful cascade plunging into a deep pool.
• Kākā & Kiwi: Keep an eye out for native birds, especially at dawn and dusk.
• Lake Waikaremoana: Kayak, swim, or simply soak in the reflections of the surrounding hills.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors come for the Great Walk, which takes 3–4 days. If you're not tramping, a day trip from Gisborne or Wairoa is possible, but you'll be driving winding roads for 2–3 hours each way. To truly appreciate the stillness, plan at least one overnight stay at the DOC camp or lodge.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Gisborne City – for its surf beaches, wineries, and Māori cultural sites.
• Eastland – a scenic drive along the coast with lighthouses and rugged cliffs.
• Wairoa – a historic town with art deco buildings and the Wairoa River.
• Morere Hot Springs – natural thermal pools in native bush, a perfect post-walk soak.

Please check official sources for current details.