Nyaralas Continuation Redwood

A bit late, but continuing the holiday report.

Redwood was next on the programme. I’d been wanting to visit for a very long time, to see the giant trees.

Some interesting facts about the Redwoods (also visible on the signs in the photos):

• California Redwood is the tallest-growing tree species in the world — up to 9m diameter, 115m tall, and over 2,000 years old
• The ones here in NZ are younger, transplanted varieties — about 2m diameter and 72m tall
• Their preferred habitat is similar to California — they thrive in the NZ climate

Walking among these trees is humbling. You crane your neck and still can’t see the top. The air smells different — earthy, ancient, damp. The kids were unusually quiet, which tells you something about the atmosphere.

The treewalk was a highlight — elevated walkways strung between the Redwoods, about 10 metres off the ground. The kids loved it. Anna needed some convincing to step onto the swaying bridges, but once she did, she didn’t want to leave.