Getting there and staying safe

The Pakuratahi Forest includes several popular areas:

Rimutaka Rail Trail (including the Incline)

Turn off SH2 9km north of Upper Hutt. The carpark is 1km along a metal road. Or you can enter the Wairarapa end of the Rail Trail via Cross Creek Road (off Western Lake Road). Pedestrian and cycling access only beyond the carpark.

Tunnel Gully and Mt Climie

Turn off SH2 onto Plateau Road at Te Marua, 6km north of Upper Hutt. Pedestrian and cycling access only beyond the carpark.

By public transport:

Catch the 112 Te Marua bus from Upper Hutt Station to the turnaround area near the end of Plateau Road. Walk approximately 1km to reach Tunnel Gully.

Catch the train to Maymorn and walk or cycle 2km up the track and through the historic Mangaroa tunnel to Tunnel Gully. Follow the signs to the Rimutaka Rail Trail via the Old Railway Line track and the Kaitoke Loop Road.

Rimutaka Trig Track

Off SH2 just south of the summit of the Rimutaka Hill Road. The Trig Track is currently CLOSED due to extensive road works in the area.

North Block

1. Rimutaka Hill Road Summit, Ridgetop Track.
2. Marchant Road (Kaitoke Shelter) via the Puffer Track. A permit is required from the Department of Conservation as this track passes through the Tararua Forest Park.

Staying safe

Most parts of the forest are isolated, exposed to wind and rain and without cellphone coverage. Weather conditions can change quickly so please:

• check the weather forecast before your trip (southerly weather conditions make the Rimutaka Rail Trail extremely cold)
• wear strong lace-up footwear and carry warm and waterproof clothing and enough food and drink for your trip
• carry sun protection
• plan your route and tell someone your intentions
• take a torch for the tunnels