This bespoke tour begins by taking a 4WD drive into the heart of the Sanctuary and up a dry river bed for 30 minutes.

From here, continue on foot to the head of the river and a stunning, hidden gorge. During this 2km round trip, your guide will point out native plants, their role in this unique ecosystem, the geology of the area and how Maori people first used the forest.

As native bird call surrounds you, join your guide in bird call, reptile and invertebrate counts, all which play a crucial role in the Sanctuary’s monitoring programme. Enjoy native kawakawa tea refreshments before returning to the lodge.