Te Urewera National Park, Northern Hawke's Bay

Te Urewera National Park is New Zealand's fourth largest national park.

Beautiful Lake Waikaremoana, the focus for many activities in the park, was formed about 2200 years ago by a colossal landslide that blocked the Waikaretaheke River. The lake is more than 250 metres deep in parts, and many visitors remark that it resembles a fiord. The track around the lake is one of New Zealand's 'Great Walks'.

The Te Urewera National Park protects the largest area of native forest remaining in the North Island and nearly all of New Zealand's native birds live in the forest.

For hikers, kayakers and fly-fishing enthusiasts, the park's main attraction is Lake Waikaremoana. From the visitor centre at Aniwaniwa, short and long walks provide access to the lake's spectacular scenery and legendary fishing spots. In a small basin above the big lake is island-dotted Lake Waikareiti, a haven for native aquatic life.

The park has an extensive track system, including the 3-day Lake Waikaremoana Track which leads around the western lake edge, climbing onto the crest of the Panekiri Range before dropping to the shoreline. Six shorter walks begin close to the Aniwaniwa visitors' centre - they range from a 20 minute stroll to Aniwaniwa Falls to the challenging six hour Ruapani Circuit. A choice of other short walks can be found near the motor camp.

Brown and rainbow trout are found in Lake Waikaremoana, and fishing licenses can be bought from the motor camp store. Kayaks and canoes are available for hire. At Lake Waikareiti, the Department of Conservation has a number of rowboats for hire.

Guided red deer, wild pig, goat and other types of game shooting can be organised at Lake Waikaremoana. Responsible hunting is encouraged, as a way to control introduced animals.