Pakuratahi Forest
The Pakuratahi Forest covers the western side of the Rimutaka ranges north of Upper Hutt and includes lands in the Kaitoke basin as well as the main Pakuratahi catchment. At just over 8,000ha this future water collection area is a key link in the chain of large forests covering the Akatarawa, Tararua, Rimutaka and Orongorongo ranges. Mainly native bush, the forest also contains some 775ha of exotic plantation stands in the northern part, just south of SH2.
The area is best known for its walking, swimming, mountain biking and the historic structures of the 1870s Rimutaka Railway.
- How to get there
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Pakuratahi Forest is accessible by private vehicle and public transport.
- Forest interest groups
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There are several different clubs and organisations with an interest in the Pakuratahi Forest
- Forest news
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Recent happenings in the Pakuratahi Forest, including current logging activities.
- Hunting
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Greater Wellington issues hunting permits for up to six months for deer, goat and pig hunting in the Pakuratahi Forest
- Forest management plan
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Greater Wellington manages the Pakuratahi Forest as a future water collection area to provide fresh, clean healthy water for the region's future generations
- Mt Climie track
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The Mt Climie track gives you the opportunity to see the changes in vegetation in the northern Rimutaka Range with increase in altitude and exposure to wind
- Rimutaka Rail Trail
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Running 18km from Kaitoke to Cross Creek, the Rimutaka Rail Trail is a popular recreation route used by more than 30,000 walkers, runners and cyclists each year
- Rimutaka Incline
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South of Summit, the Rimutaka Rail Trail includes the famous "Incline" to Cross Creek, 10km from Featherston
- Rimutaka Trig Track
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Vegetation recovery in a hostile climate
- Tunnel Gully
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Nestled at the foot of Mount Climie north of Upper Hutt, Tunnel Gully Recreation Area is popular for picnics, mountain biking and walking through the remnant native bush
- Contact the ranger
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Dean Hearfield