Forest news

Dean Hearfield and Karin Wylie with kereru

Rescued Kereru

While driving through Akatarawa forest ranger Dean Hearfield came across a wounded kereru which appeared to have been hit by a trail bike and was unable to fly. The bird was carefully transported back to our Upper Hutt Depot and Karin Wylie from the Native Bird Rescue Trust was called.

Three weeks later Karin and Dean drove back to the area where the kereru was found and were delighted to release it back into the forest.  The rescued kereru, when last seen, was fit and well.

Orange Hut

The Orange Hut has now been completely rebuilt and is looking spectacular in bright orange!  There have been minor graffiti attacks which have been addressed quickly.  There are ongoing renovations to the barbecue area, the hut now has its own flushing toilet, but users must be aware that as the water system is prone to weather, occasional checking of the water intake is suggested should the toilet not be operational.  This is easily done by following the water pipe up the hill to its starting point.  We appreciate any feedback from users of the Orange hut.

Road maintenance continues throughout the forest and unfortunately the last bout of road maintenance has suffered from two weeks of constant wet weather.   This means some areas are very slippery and we would appreciate avoiding the worst damaged areas if possible.  Access for firewood continues on the Valley View pine plantation and the roading in this area is of a good standard so has no effect on firewood recovery.

The new Orange Hut