Carbon-Zero Wilderness

OVERVIEW

Explore two natural treasures on the North Island’s wild western coast that are fiercely protected to keep them carbon free and environmentally sound. Browsing the Arataki Visitor Centre will offer a glimpse into the wonders that lie ahead, which include the lush rainforest that blankets the Waitakere Ranges. Before entering, you must first pass through a checkpoint to remove any biological matter from your clothing that might damage the forest. These precautionary measures ensure that the wilderness will remain gloriously pristine, especially its sacred kauri trees, which are dying from foreign soil and plant material that visitors have inadvertently carried in on their clothing. After following a naturalist guide through the remarkably biodiverse forest, you will head for Piha Beach. It too is protected, especially from invasive animal species that might alter the coastal ecosystem. You can’t help but feel at one with nature while strolling its volcanically formed, black-sand beach.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Browse a visitor center for insight into how the North Island keeps its wilderness pristine.
• Walk through a remarkably biodiverse rainforest that is fiercely protected.
• Stroll Piha Beach, a picture-perfect stretch of black sand that borders the rainforest.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.