A quiet valley to the east of Lower Hatt, the resting area Vainuiomata is a suitable place for walks and picnics. It is located at the foot of one of the largest and untouched forests in the lower part of the North Island. There, every person can find an activity. Swimming in mountain rivers and lakes, descending from waterfalls, walking along hills, valleys and suspension bridges among old trees. That is a good way to know the surroundings, their long life. The history of New Zealand, its capital and surrounding cities is truly entwined with the trunks of centuries-old trees and spilled into mountain streams.

For the "immersion" in the wonderful world of New Zealand forests, the visitors have several routes. 

The walk along the Lower Dam. The tourists can come to the one of New Zealand’s oldest dams telling Wellington’s “water” story. For them, there are two special paths. A pedestrian one - less wide and steep, and bicycle one – made of fine gravel, leading by indirect mountain tracks. That is the easiest tourist route.

Another route attracts not just by picturesque valleys, but also its name. “The forest ring” will lead through thickets of centuries-old trees, the old houses of dam builders, a pedestrian bridge and up through the bushes covered with flowers.

The next path is suitable for more trained visitors. The route along the Nikau stream begins with a pedestrian bridge, then goes up to the thickets of bushes and turns to a side path along the stream.

And the last path of Tan Umag is a real test for your strength. But it is worth it. Made in the 1970s, this track was a route for geological exploration. Scientists examined the rock structures of the area. On the way, you see old houses, beech forests, and a flooded lower dam. Those who reach the end, get a reward: a beautiful view of the Upper Vainuiomata river valley.