Raukumara Conservation Park

Raukumara Conservation Park is a rugged, remote wilderness on New Zealand's East Cape, where ancient rainforests cloak steep mountains and wild rivers carve through deep gorges. This is tramping country for serious adventurers—think misty peaks, hidden waterfalls, and the chance to walk in the footsteps of Māori ancestors. The park protects one of the largest remaining tracts of native forest in the North Island, offering a true backcountry experience far from the crowds.

Highlights & What to See

• Raukumara Range – A challenging tramping destination with stunning ridgeline views and pristine subalpine vegetation.
• Mōtū River – A legendary, remote river perfect for experienced kayakers or as a tramping route through dramatic gorges.
• Lake Waikaremoana – While just outside the park, this stunning lake and its Great Walk are often combined with a Raukumara adventure.
• Te Urewera – Adjacent to the park, this vast, forested area offers more tramping and cultural experiences with Tūhoe guides.
• Eastwoodhill Arboretum – A surprising detour near Gisborne, home to the largest collection of Northern Hemisphere trees in the Southern Hemisphere.

Suggested Time to Spend

Give yourself at least 3–5 days for a proper Raukumara tramp, as access is long and trails are demanding. Most visitors combine a multi-day hike with a few days exploring the Gisborne and Eastland coast. The park is best visited from November to April; outside these months, weather can be severe and river crossings dangerous.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Gisborne City – The nearest city, famous for its surf beaches, wineries, and the first place to see the sunrise.
• Eastland – The entire East Cape region, with its remote beaches, Māori marae, and the iconic East Cape Lighthouse.
• Te Urewera – A neighbouring protected area with the Lake Waikaremoana Great Walk and rich Tūhoe culture.
• Opotiki – A small town at the eastern end of the park, a good base for exploring the Mōtū River and coastal areas.
• Whakatāne – A larger town to the north with access to White Island tours and the Whakatāne River.

Please check official sources for current details.