Redwoods perfect playground for Rotorua's Children's Weekend

Rotorua's Redwoods became a playground filled with adventure, fun, laughter and paint-splattered chaos for World Children's Day.

Under the shadow of the trees kids were able to run free, building huts, painting the forest, digging among the mud and playing games.

Millie Houlton, 2, has a go with the paints. Photo/Ben Fraser

Hundreds of families took part in Rotorua's 10th annual children's weekend and event organiser Jill Walker said it had gone fantastically.

"We have had parents and children getting involved across a range of ages.

"There are children digging among the branches to find huhu grubs and over there something completely different [a tea party]."

Art-work was strung between the trees and paint of all colours was being applied to fabric, brown paper bags and large plastic sheets which floated in the breeze.

Walker said a lot of people had come together to make the weekend special.

Ella-Jay Rangirangi, 5, (left), and Eva-Deane Tamati, 6, creating some art work. Photo/Ben Fraser

"There are at least 15 students here from Western Heights High School and adults from across the community.

"Without the helpers we couldn't do this and it's so good to see the kids getting a day like this."

Following a colourful banner of flags through the trees led to a quiet discovery space where children could learn about the forest environment,

Manaia Tana, 4, (left), and Miriama Tana, 10, painting among the trees. Photo/Ben Fraser

Kahu Kingi, 6, was helping his mum, Sky Smale, host all of the visitors.

"I think it's amazing," Kahu said.

"My mum set up this part and she has done a pretty good job."

Kahu was making sure people could try all of the activities which included a spot where you could lie on the ground and use a mirror to see the canopy.

Sadie Chase, 10, has a go on the bucket drums. Photo/Ben Fraser

"There is a treasure hunt of pests, there are cats and rabbits and possums. It's the invader trail of invasive species."

Smale said Kahu had definitely been a very enthusiastic supporter.

"It's been lovely so far, I really love working with kids.

"I have poor health so I don't get to do it very often but I am just wanting to engage kids with the environment."

Brothers Campbell, 7, and Mitchell, 6, were enjoying a day out with their parents.

The crowds packed into the Redwoods for a day of fun. Photo/Ben Fraser

Mum Sara Mines said it had been a really cool event.

"This is the kind of thing kids should be out and doing more often.

"They have loved hut building, had a play on the gymnastics equipment, dug through the mud and had a go on the bucket drums.

"As parents we're really enjoying it as well."

Campbell's art was part of a display done by students from primary schools around Rotorua.