Urewera Treks owners Joe and Jo Doherty operate sustainably

Comments from trekkers:

"Our experience exceeded our expectations in every aspect" (USA)

"Perfect balance of support, information and exercise . . . fantastic value" (Australia)

"It was a wonderful adventure" (USA)

"Had a great day and feel very much richer for the experience" (Australia)

"Guided walks are so much better . . . thanks for sharing your knowledge" (Belgium)

"Very experienced and passionate" (Malta)

"This was my favourite excursion by far. Thank you for your knowledge, hospitality & delicious gluten free bread” (USA)

"I cannot express how much I enjoyed my experience! Thank you for everything!” (USA)

"Thank you for this wonderful experience. Excellent trip, excellent guide, great food, memorable tree planting" (The Netherlands)

"Amazing ridge walk among wonderful old trees. Perfect guides giving invaluable insight. We remain deeply moved by this day" (Austria)

"Thank you for the privilege of experiencing your knowledge & sensitivity towards this unique part of our beautiful country" (NZ)

About Us

Te Urewera Treks is locally owned and operated by husband and wife team Joe and Joanna Doherty.

Joe was born and brought up in Te Urewera so has an extensive knowledge of the region and its flora and fauna. He is of the local Ngai Tuhoe Maori tribe and, as our lead guide, he can share a wealth of knowledge about traditional and contemporary Maori culture, as well as some fascinating stories about the region's histories and mysteries.

Jo(anna) Doherty, Te Urewera Treks Joanna is originally from England and has been living in New Zealand for over 20 years. Joanna works behind the scenes to ensure the treks run as smoothly as possible.

Our team of local guides bring you a unique dimension through our treks. As well as having an extensive knowledge of the forest and the wonderful variety of life within it, they will also share with you their knowledge about local Maori history and their own personal stories of life in and around the bush. In addition, all our guides are trained Guides Rory and Joe in first aid and general safety in the bush.

Sustainability

Te Urewera Treks is committed to operating sustainably - environmentally, culturally, socially, and financially. Joe and Joanna commit a large amount of time, most of it on a voluntary basis, to a range of community organisations. In addition we belong to the Rotorua Sustainable Tourism Charter and are committed to continuously improving the way we operate.

We operate our treks according to the Maori concept of kaitiakitanga which is handed down from the ancestors. It is about guardianship of the forest and the life within it so it is there for future generations to enjoy.

Manaakitanga - warm and welcoming hospitality - is something that the Tuhoe people are renowned for. At Te Urewera Treks we welcome you as our guests and hope you will leave as our friends.

Jacques Folger During the 08/09 season Te Urewera Treks had a trainee, Jacques Folger, from New Caledonia working with us as part of an international training and development programme. During 2010 we had a second trainee, Jean Wadela, also from New Caledonia.