Rimu-mataī-miro-tōtara/kāmahi forest occurs on the volcanic plateau surrounding Lake Taupō and the volcanic plains around Tongariro and Taranaki.

Conifers such as rimu, miro and tōtara are dominant. Mataī is widespread on sandy soils, and kahikatea is common on poorly drained soils. Kāmahi is widespread in the understorey along with hīnau, black and white maires, fuchsia and māhoe. Tawa is common across the ecosystem, except in locations prone to intense frost.

The expected natural range* of rimu-mataī-miro-tōtara/kāmahi forest is 685,373 hectares.

*area this ecosystem could occupy without the presence of people.