The Akatarawa Forest is an important regional resource for motorised recreation. Greater Wellington runs a permit system for 4WD clubs on designated tracks. For safety and environmental reasons, no private 4WD trips are allowed into the Akatarawa Forest.

All motorised recreational users must comply with the Motorised Recreational User Code , developed by ARAC and Greater Wellington in 1997. The code explains the restrictions and behaviour standards necessary to meet Greater Wellington's statutory obligations to protect the environment, other recreational users and adjoining landowners.

ARAC and Greater Wellington have since developed 4WD access maps identifying specific tracks that are available for motorised recreation. Conditions apply to some tracks to minimise impacts and motorised use will no longer be allowed if conditions are not met.