Werakata National Park

Watch birds and wildlife in their natural habitat, study rare native Australian plants, climb a high hill for a bird's eye view, picnic in a scenic spot, ride a horse or a bike... there's so much to do in Werakata National Park! Located in the Lower Hunter Valley of eastern New South Wales, it is very popular with locals and tourists visiting the local vineyards. It is also popular with locals from nearby Sydney and Newcastle, who love to visit it for a day or a weekend.

There was a time when the park and its surroundings were inhabited by indigenous tribes of Australia, who we still do not know much about. In the 19th century, Europeans who settled in the area began logging heavily. Most of the timber went to local mines for mine stakes. Deforestation continued until the area was transferred to the New South Wales Wildlife Service.

Werakata National Park was established in 1999. At that time, it was 1130 hectares. Gradually, the forest protection area increased. Today, the park covers 3337 hectares and is divided into 3 large independent areas located close to each other, near the townships of Abermain, Abernethy, and Kearsley.

Regardless of the time of year, guests certainly will find many interesting things in Werakata National Park. In fall, when the weather is cool but sunny, it is best to explore the biking trails that even children can ride. Spring is a great time to catch a glimpse of nature recovering from its long sleep, feed the flying squirrels, and see the fields in bloom. Summer is perfect for a picnic under the spreading canopy of trees. And in winter, take binoculars to watch diverse and beautiful birds.