"It's a spectacular asset for Rotorua tourism, sensitively worked into the Redwoods. It fits our Wood First policy, and has been achieved in partnership with so many different parties. We had to work with forest owners, hapu, engineers, designers, planners - it was a complex process, years in the making. But it's wonderful. I know people will love it."
Rotorua resident Kahu Mutu said the blessing was beautiful.
"It was a lovely morning, and it was nice to see family gathering to celebrate the treewalk. I was there as a Hurunga Te Rangi hapu representative. Hurunga Te Rangi hapu holds mana whenua over the forest lands. I was also there with my family, my cousins and their kids," she said. "This is a great opportunity for our kids to experience the treewalk. It was a very positive experience and I think it's going to be a success."
The treewalk will open from 8.30am every day until at least 6pm over summer with an opening special of $25 for adults, $15 for children (5 to 14 years) and a family deal of $79 (two adults and up to three children). This special will run through the summer.
