Horse riding gives you a different view of the Akatarawa Forest, and is a peaceful way to explore some of the more beautiful and little known areas of the forest.

For your own safety enter only with experienced companions, take Topomap R26 and a compass. Look out for mountain bikes, trail bikes and forestry service vehicles.

The best access points are via Maungakotukutuku Valley, Paraparaumu and via Battle Hill Farm Forest Park  to the Puketiro Forest. Both have room to park horse floats. Karapoti Gorge is heavily used by trail bikers and we do not recommend riding your horse through there.

Maungakotukutuku Stream is part of the water supply for the Kapiti Coast. Please do not ride in or across the stream except to get to Perhams Road.

Whakatikei Loop

Distance: 22 km return; Grade: Medium; Time: 4 hours

Starting at the Maungakotukutuku Valley, ride up Perhams Road to Titi Ridge, turn right and then left down Whakatiki Road. Turn right again to follow Hydro Valley Rd back through the Whakatiki Forest and back to Perhams Road.

Other forest areas

Clubs can access other Greater Wellington forests for events or organised group rides. Contact the Upper Hutt office  for permits and entry keys.

Parts of the forest may be closed for logging, pest control or maintenance operations. Trails may be closed in wet weather to avoid track damage.