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You have many great options to explore the forests - from easy access walks to tracks for experienced trampers.
View a map of the tracks and walks in Puketi Forest
In the Omahuta Kauri Sanctuary you'll be able to take the Kauri Stump Walk to see the remains of one of the largest kauri trees ever felled.
The short Manginangina Kauri Walk follows a boardwalk that winds through a mature stand of kauri and swamp forest. It's a track that is suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
The giant kauri in the Omahuta Kauri Sanctuary were protected from logging in 1951. This short loop track leads you through a stand of mature kauri.
Tramping track for experienced trampers with good route-finding abilities. The route descends to the Waipapa River.
The Pirau Ridge Track in Puketi Forest is an easy 11-km walking track. The old logging road provides walking and mountain biking opportunities.
Trampers interested in taking the Pukatea Ridge Track in the Puketi Forest should have a high degree of skill and experience, as well as route-finding abilities. The route connects with the Waipapa River Track.
The Pukekohe Stream Track offers visitors the opportunity to view a regenerating kauri forest. A side track leads to an unusual stand of kauri and hard beech.
You can access the Puketi Nature Trail from the Puketi Recreation area. The loop track winds through a beautiful kauri forest.
Take the Waihoanga Gorge Kauri Walk and discover the Pirau Waterfall. The track makes its way through a range of forest species including puriri, taraire, nikau and virgin kauri trees.
The Waipapa River Track is a scenic two-day tramp that follows the Waipapa River through the heart of Puketi Forest. The tramp is only recommended for experienced and well-equipped trampers.
Walnut Track in the Puketi Forest is a steep ridge track through beautiful kauri forest. The track is recommended for experienced and well-equipped trampers.
Puketi and Omahuta forests offer opportunities for hunting, including goats and pigs. Hunting permits are required.
Find out more about hunting in Puketi and Omahuta forests
The old logging roads within the forests are suitable for adventurous mountain biking. Biking is permitted on the Pirau Ridge Road and Mokau Ridge Road but none of the other DOC administered tracks in the Puketi and Omahuta Forest.
Find businesses that are DOC-approved to provide guided activities and tours in Puketi & Omahuta forests.
Puketi and Omahuta forests brochure
Weather for Bay of Islands area - Northland rural forecast
NZ weather
New Zealand topographic maps are available from DOC Visitor Centres
Puketi Forest Trust - a community conservation project
Follow the Outdoor Safety Code: 1. Plan your trip 2. Tell someone 3. Be aware of the weather 4. Know your limits 5. Take sufficient supplies
Tips for driving on unsealed roads
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Safety