Rimutaka Forest Park
Rimutaka Forest Park encompasses much of the Rimutaka Range, north of Wellington in the Wairarapa region of New Zealand.
The park is characterised by steep, bush-clad hills and narrow fern-filled valleys cut by freshwater streams and the beautiful Orongorongo River. A network of tracks throughout the forest provides good access to many areas suitable for walking and hunting.
There is a wide variety of wildlife in Rimutaka Forest Park, including bellbirds, tui, kaka, kereru, ruru, red deer, goats, pigs and possums. The Rimutaka Forest Park Trust began releasing North Island brown kiwi into the park in May 2006.
Rimutaka Forest Park Activities
Rimutaka Forest Park offers a range of recreational activities, including:
- Walking, hiking
- Hunting (with permit)
- Horse riding
- Bird watching
- Camping
Rimutaka Forest Park Accommodation
There is a large network of huts available for accommodation in the Rimutaka Forest Park. Booked huts in the Orongorongo Valley are available for exclusive hire.
Corner Creek Campsite and Graces Stream Campsite are available for camping.
Rimutaka Forest Park Conservation
Rimutaka Forest Park is managed by the Department of Conservation. Some things to remember include:
- Dogs are only permitted in certain parts of the forest, check first
- Camp only in designated areas
- Take your rubbish away with you
- Do not light fires
- Observe all instructions and signs from the logging crew
- Do not remove or disturb any artifacts or other historic remains