New Zealand, a land famous for its breathtaking landscapes, is home to many unique natural wonders from beautiful southern lights to incredible whale watching. Among these gifts of nature is the Goblin Forest, a magical, mist-shrouded forest that seems to belong to another world. Located in the shadow of Mount Taranaki on the North Island, this enchanted woodland is often referred to as “Goblin Forest” because of its twisted, moss-covered trees and eerie atmosphere that is akin to a fantasy forest. It’s impossible to think that fairies and goblins don’t walk amongst its roots.

For those of you who loves nature, is a hiker or are fascinated by all things myth and wonder, this is a place that must be on your list.

The ‘Kamahi’- New Zealand’s Native Goblin Trees

Goblin Forest, also known as the Kamahi Forest, is located within Egmont National Park and is one of the native forests in New Zealand. This park is centered around Mount Taranaki, an iconic dormant volcano that rises 2,518 meters above sea level. The mountain dominates the landscape, and the Goblin Forest that blankets its lower slopes is formed by the unique volcanic environment.

The trees in Goblin Forest have earned their mystical reputation thanks to their unusual, gnarly growth patterns. Over the centuries, strong winds and dense mist have warped the trees into crooked, twisted shapes, with branches covered in layers of moss, lichen, and epiphytes. This surreal environment gives the forest its “goblin” nickname, as the trees look like something from a fantasy novel, where one might expect to see magical creatures lurking among the roots and branches.

The forest thrives in the wet, temperate climate surrounding Mount Taranaki. Frequent rainfall and cool temperatures encourage the growth of mosses and ferns, giving the forest a green, otherworldly appearance. The trees themselves are primarily kamahi, a native New Zealand species known for its resilience in difficult environments. The combination of volcanic soil, high humidity, and harsh weather has shaped this forest into one of the most unusual ecosystems on the planet.

Sacred to The Maori

The Goblin Forest is one of the native Maori places that’s steeped in the tribe’s legend. For the indigenous Maori people, Mount Taranaki is sacred. According to legend, Taranaki was once located in the center of the North Island, alongside other mighty mountains like Tongariro and Ruapehu. However, after losing a battle over the love of the beautiful mountain Pihanga, Taranaki fled westward, carving out the Whanganui River in its wake, and settled where it now stands. The surrounding forests, including the Goblin Forest, are part of this sacred landscape.

The Goblin Forest also has cultural and historical significance. The Maori people have long revered the area as a place of spiritual energy. The forest’s eerie and magical atmosphere reinforces the sense that this is a place where the human and natural worlds intertwine in profound ways.

Hiking Paths in The Goblin Forest

To start your hike in the Goblin Forest, begin at the Dawson Falls Visitor Centre in Egmont National Park, which serves as the main access point for several trails through this enchanted woodland.

The most popular route is the Wilkies Pools Loop Track, an easy-to-moderate trail that winds through the heart of the forest. Along the way, you’ll encounter moss-covered trees, ferns, and natural rock pools. The hike typically loops back to the starting point, ending where you began at Dawson Falls. Other paths branch off for more challenging treks around Mount Taranaki, giving hikers options for extended adventures into other parts of the park.

For a more thorough experience of the Goblin Forest, take the Kamahi Loop Track which is another captivating trail in the forest starting from the Dawson Falls Visitor Centre. This 30-minute, well-marked path meanders through the forest’s magical atmosphere, showcasing its twisted trees and lush undergrowth. The Kamahi Loop Track provides a more intimate experience, allowing hikers to immerse themselves in the forest’s beauty. It typically loops back to the visitor centre, making it a great option for those looking for a scenic stroll without committing to a longer hike. Along the way, be sure to keep an eye out for the unique flora and fauna that make this forest so special.

The Unique Biodiversity of Goblin Forest

While the twisted trees and moss-covered branches of the Goblin Forest capture the imagination, the forest is also home to a remarkable variety of plant and animal life. The ecosystem here is shaped by the high rainfall and the fertile volcanic soil, which support an abundance of species, some of which are found only in New Zealand.

Flora

The dominant tree species in the Goblin Forest is the kamahi (Weinmannia racemosa), a tree known for its adaptability to tough conditions. Kamahi trees often start life growing on top of other trees, eventually sending roots down to the ground. This process gives the forest its dense, gnarled look, with kamahi trees forming strange shapes as they compete for light and space.

In addition to kamahi, the forest floor is carpeted with ferns, mosses, and lichens. The high humidity encourages the growth of epiphytes—plants that grow on other plants—creating a layered, textured environment. The forest’s vibrant green color comes from the dense covering of these mosses and lichens, which thrive in the moist, shaded conditions.

Wildlife

The Goblin Forest is home to a variety of native birds, insects, and other animals. Among the most notable birds are the tui and bellbird, both known for their melodic calls that echo through the trees. The forest is also home to the New Zealand falcon (kārearea), a rare and endangered bird of prey that hunts in the more open areas around the forest.

In the forest’s undergrowth, you’ll find a range of insect life, including wētā, a large flightless insect that is unique to New Zealand. These nocturnal creatures are a reminder of the ancient ecosystems that existed in New Zealand long before the arrival of humans. While they may look intimidating, wētā are harmless and play an important role in the forest’s ecosystem.

The Experience of Walking Through Goblin Forest

As you step into the forest, you’re immediately struck by the dense green atmosphere. The light filters through the canopy in a diffuse, almost otherworldly way, and the air is thick with the smell of damp earth and moss. The trees, with their twisted branches and thick coverings of moss and lichen, create an eerie, dreamlike environment. The silence is broken only by the occasional call of a bird or the rustling of leaves.

The trails are well-marked and vary in difficulty, making them accessible to both casual walkers and more experienced hikers. Along the way, you’ll encounter natural features like waterfalls, streams, and pools, which add to the forest’s magical atmosphere.

Tips for Visitors

If you’re planning to visit the Goblin Forest, here are some tips to help you make the most of your experience:

• Time your visit carefully: The weather around Mount Taranaki can be unpredictable, with frequent rain and mist. The best time to visit is during the warmer months (November to April), but even then, be prepared for changing conditions. Bring waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear, as the trails can be muddy.
• Respect the environment: The Goblin Forest is a fragile ecosystem, so it’s important to stay on marked trails and avoid damaging the plants and trees. Be mindful of the cultural significance of the area to the Maori people, and treat the forest with the respect it deserves.
• Take your time: The forest is best experienced slowly. Take the time to appreciate the details—the texture of the moss, the shapes of the trees, the sound of the birds. The Goblin Forest is not a place to rush through; it’s a place to immerse yourself in.
• Bring a camera: The forest’s magical atmosphere is a photographer’s dream, but capturing its essence can be challenging. The diffused light and dense greenery create a moody, ethereal environment that can be difficult to capture in photos, but with patience, you can take stunning shots of this unique landscape.

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