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introduction
 This guide to New Zealand Forest Parks has
been compiled by the New Zealand Information Network to assist
outdoor enthusiasts.
New Zealand’s 20 Forest Parks preserve much of the ancient
beauty and grandeur of our native forests. The parks are
administered by the Department of Conservation (DOC), which
protects these fragile areas from damage by introduced predators
and from further inroads by human activity.
The Forest Park system comprises 13 parks in the North Island and
7 in the South Island, covering a huge diversity of topography,
forest types and wildlife. The far north of the North Island is
characterised by subtropical rainforest and magnificent kauri
trees, while the central region has dense podocarp forest, open
tussock tops, scenic rivers and volcanic landforms.
The top of the South Island boasts historic trails over bush-clad
mountains, with special delights such as alpine herb fields,
sparkling lakes, and hot springs. The lower south has vast
tussock lands, rock tors, gold mining heritage sites, winter ski
areas and luxuriant coastal forests.
 The comprehensive system of tracks in our
Forest Parks is based on three general categories. ‘Short
walks’ are suitable for travellers who can stop briefly and
stroll to a significant viewpoint. ‘Walking tracks’ are
usually rough blazed trails up to three hours long. ‘Full
day’ and ‘multi-day walks’ are on what Kiwis term
tramping tracks, leading deep into wilderness areas.
The Forest Parks are managed on multiple-use principles and a
typical park might sustain many recreational activities like
bushwalking, tramping, fishing, timber production, deer hunting,
and possum trapping. Tramping is the main activity and all DOC
offices and visitor centres can offer advice, pamphlets and maps
to help you plan your trips.
In terms of accessible wilderness areas, New Zealand is one of
the most richly endowed countries on the planet. We would like
visitors to share the Kiwi heritage of the great outdoors and
enjoy the peace and natural beauty of our Forest Parks.
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