The usually quiet and peaceful Redwoods Forest was far from it today as hundreds of children of all ages wandered beneath the foliage for the annual Redwoods Children's Day.
Children played music, made art and took part in different activities throughout the afternoon.
Organiser Jill Walker said the day was all about celebrating children and the forest.
"It's the combination of families and children in this beautiful space.
"There's so much we can do in here. We're trying to encourage people to create their own games as well."
"The art in the trees is always amazing. I like just sitting and looking at what's happening."
Chasa Weston was enjoying the day with her son Kaysen, 4, and said it had grown each year.
"It's been really great. There's a lot more to do with lots of arts and crafts."
Kaysen agreed and said he liked the face painting.
"There are so many things to do I don't know what to do first."
Teacher Jo Collyer was sitting among the trees with a selection of books in te reo to read and said she was enjoying the day among the trees.
"It's really relaxing which I love and there's plenty to see. You can decide whether you want to get involved or just watch."
Collyer had brought along a selection of te reo books including some written by Aunty Bea.
The annual Redwoods Children's Day concluded a weekend of free events to celebrate National Children's Day.
On Saturday there were a range of activities held around central Rotorua with an "Around the World" theme. As part of it children could collect stamps for their "passports".