Finding sanctuary at Sanctuary Mountain
One of the few stands of ancient forest left in New Zealand, Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari in Waikato is so special that kākāpō are set to be released here in 2023. It will be the first time the endangered parrots have been moved back onto the mainland by DOC and Ngāi Tahu, and the dense forest and habitat on the maunga is perfect for these beautiful birds. The environment is also perfect for humans seeking a reset in nature.
Recently the Sanctuary has added wellness tours including a rongoā rākau Māori medicine tour, meditation at the maunga, tree lore and forest bathing. These came out of a survey which looked at the wellbeing effects of connecting people to pure nature, and will be running until the end of March.
The rongoā rākau tour focuses on identifying native plants on the maunga that have different medicinal purposes.
Tree lore explores myths about trees in different cultures, learning why they’re worshipped across the planet and spending time amongst the tawa forest. And of course don’t forget the forest bathing sessions.
“We’re calling it a summer of wellness,” says Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari marketing manager Monique Webb.
Self-guided tours are also popular, where you can buy a day pass, pack a picnic and wander at your own leisure along five kilometres of gravelled walking
