Raetea Forest
Introduction
Raetea Forest is characterised by huge towering trees reaching over clear rocky bottom streams - home to native fish such as giant bullies and the threatened short-jawed kokopu.
Features
River at Mangamuka Gorge Picnic Area
Raetea is covered in kauri and towai forest - habitat for many native birds and animals. Large emergent kauri trees are common. Kauri form a high canopy and you can readily see and hear bird species such as kūkupa (NZ pigeon).
Mangamuka Scenic Reserve
Mangamuka Scenic Reserve consists of a large forested area (2944 ha). It is home to a wide variety of birds and animals, many of which are regionally and nationally threatened. It is an important site for the long-term maintenance of North Island brown kiwi and kūkupa (New Zealand pigeon) populations. It is also one of the few sites where the threatened freshwater fish, the short-jawed kokopu, has been recorded.
Mangamuka also contains one of the highest quality waterways left in Northland, the Mangamuka stream.
The rolling hill slopes covered in towai forest and manuka/kanuka shrubland form part of a remnant forest that links locally to Mangataipa Scenic Reserve and Raetea Forest.
As development and deforestation continue to diminish forest habitats like this, pristine areas such as Mangamuka become more and more important for the survival of our native species.
Location
Raetea is a mountainous region of native bush located south of Kaitaia.
Getting there
Raetea is situated in the Far North of the North Island, located just south of Kaitaia. From Kaitaia follow SH1 south until you reach the Mangamuka Gorge, Raetea Forest.
Activities
Bird and wildlife watching
Bird and wildlife watching
Readily see and hear bird species such as kūkupa (NZ pigeon).
Hunting
You can hunt pigs and goats in the Raetea and Mangamuka hunting blocks. A permit is required.
Mangamuka Gorge Picnic Area
Take a rest at the summit of the Mangamuka Gorge. The Mangamuka Gorge Picnic Area is an ideal place to have a bite to eat, finishing off with a dip in a refreshing rocky bottom stream. The area is sign posted along SH1 at the summit of the Mangamuka Gorge.
Places to stay
To find out other accommodation options, contact the Kaitaia i-SITE visitor information centre. Details can be found on their website: www.visitfarnorthnz.com or phone +64 9 408 0879.
Plan and prepare
Check, Clean, Dry
Stop the spread of aquatic pests. Remember to Check, Clean, Dry all items before entering a waterway, and when moving between waterways.
Keep safe
This area is known for its changeable "four seasons in one day" weather and because much of the terrain is rugged, trampers and walkers must travel prepared. Food and warm waterproof clothing should be carried, even on short walks. Overnight parties should always include experienced trampers.
The emergency telephone number in New Zealand is 111. It is a free phone call. If you have an emergency and need a quick response from Police, the Fire Service or Ambulance, then dial 111
Tramping and safety links
Mountain Safety Council website for more information including personal safety so you can safely enjoy your trip to Te Rerenga Wairua
Land Search and Rescue website
Leave No Trace New Zealand website
Guides and commercial tourism providers