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A Journey Into the Ngahere: A Private Māori Eco-Experience

We invite you to a private, bespoke journey where the modern world falls away, replaced by the natural rhythms of the forest. This is much more than a tour; it is an invitation to reconnect, to slow down, and to experience the land through Māori eyes.

The Experience

Your journey begins with a traditional welcome into the ngahere (forest). As we walk through the lush New Zealand bush, you will learn to see the forest as both a larder and a pharmacy. Guided by the wisdom of generations, you will forage for seasonal native ingredients—gathering young shoots, fragrant leaves, and the hidden treasures of the canopy.

Your host will share the stories of these plants, explaining their roles in kai (food) and rongoā (traditional healing), and how our deep respect for the land guides our role as kaitiaki (guardians).

Co-Creation & Connection

The heart of the experience takes place in our open-air, wood-fired kitchen. Here, we work together to co-create a meal that reflects the season and the soil. Everyone plays a part—chopping, stirring, and tasting—as we transform our foraged finds into a nourishing feast.

As the smoke rises and the meal is shared, the lines between guest and host fade. Around the table, we share stories, laughter, and insights into the history of Aotearoa. You will taste the freshness of the forest in every bite and feel the warmth of true connection.

Our Commitment

At Velskov, we believe in walking lightly. Our mission is to not only share the beauty of this land but to actively restore the forest to her natural state. By joining us, you become part of this cycle of restoration and respect.

Come for the nourishment, stay for the stories, and leave with a deeper connection to the land.

Request to reserve your private time in the forest!

This experience is perfect for food enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a deeper connection with the environment. Kindly share your preferred date and time, and we’ll confirm availability and pricing shortly.

Lunch

  • Airport or Hotel pick up 10:15 am (if transfer requested)

  • Velskov arrival: 11 am

  • Velskov departure: 2:30pm

  • Est. Airport or City hotel arrival: 3:15 pm

Dinner

  • Airport or Hotel pick up: 2:45 pm (if transfer requested)

  • Velskov arrival: 3:30pm

  • Velskov departure: 7:00 pm

  • Est. Airport or City hotel arrival: 7:45 pm

Useful information

  • 5 hours including travel from Auckland CBD and return.

  • Travel to the airport: 30-60 minutes

  • Travel to CBD: 30-45 minutes

Capacity

  • Capacity: 6 guests. On special request, up to 12 guests.

Pricing

Minimum Spend: $2375

Please email us at hebe@velskov.com

Frequently Asked Questions

  • For your comfort, please wear clothes that you can layer and shoes suitable for walking. Velskov provides a limited number of gumboots and rain jackets.

  • We recommend bringing a hat and sunscreen (for the summer months), a rain jacket (for the winter months), as well as a water bottle, camera and insect spray.

    Don't forget any medication you may need during the tour, such as allergy prevention or treatment.

  • Participants must be at least 18 years old to attend on their own. Those under 18 must be accompanied by a responsible adult. If you have special requests for a private kid-friendly tour, please contact us at hebe@velskov.com

  • The tastings of fresh ingredients from the farm and local area will vary daily. While specific dietary requests cannot be guaranteed, please inform us of any allergies when booking on hebe@velskov.com

  • Exclusive access to a 10-access private forest. Option to book a private driver or a helicopter tour.

    • A guided walk through the native forest farm.

    • Expert-guided herb and plant foraging.

    • A tasting experience featuring forest foods

    • Reforesting native bush helps New Zealand’s rich biodiversity flourish.

    • The opportunity to plant a native tree sapling, to help restore the forest or seasonal variation, such as mushroom log inoculation.

  • Contact us if you have special requests in mind at hebe@velskov.com

  • Yes, you are welcome to make your own way to Velskov Native Forest Farm.

  • The forest farm is in Waitakere Ranges, a 30-45-minute drive from Auckland downtown.

  • Yes, there is a compostable toilet available for use at the off-grid native forest farm.

  • We understand that plans can change. You can cancel your booking up to 10 days before the tour start time for a full refund minus an admin fee of 20%. Cancellations made within 10 days are not eligible for a refund.

  • Yes, for tours tailored to alternate dates, times and attendee numbers please enquire with hebe@velskov.com or call +64 0272209107.