The Department of Conservation is encouraging locals to go off the beaten track in the Bay of Plenty by offering free monthly walks, starting this Wednesday (April 15).

The programme is designed to get people of various fitness levels involved, with offerings ranging from a native bush walk along the Karangahake Gorge Tunnel to a river crossing on the Bluff Stream Kauri.

Wairere Falls is a part of the DOC walking programme for people to explore and learn about the history of the area.

The event, which runs from 9.30am-4pm, invites people to walk the Tuahu Track via a huge kauri tree to the North-South Summit, bringing views from the Kaimai hills to north Waikato.

Those interested should meet at the DOC's Tauranga offices on Chadwick Road West, but bookings are essential by calling partnerships ranger Kirsten Wood on: 07 571 2720.

Kirsten says these walks will get everyone involved. 'It's an opportunity for children and their families to get out and explore,” she says.

With the first event scheduled during the school holidays, she's hoping it also encourages families to get outdoors.

The tracks range from flat walks to high incline walks of up to eight hours.

Kirsten says she cannot pick a 'must-see” walking track. 'All the tracks have their special little gems,” she adds.

So far, monthly walks are set for April to August, but the DOC hasn't set dates for the walks during the warmer months of September to December.

'We're waiting to get a feel for what people want, as some have told us they'd like to do the track over the weekend,” says Kirsten.

The DOC is also providing transport from their office to the walking tracks.

The first walk is the ‘Tuahu Track' on April 15 from 9:30am-4pm. Moderate fitness level is required and prior booking is essential. To see the full 2015 programme go to:www.doc.govt.nz/get-involved/events-and-awards