About this hunting block

Deer, pigs and goats are present in this Scenic Reserve.

General information

Pig and deer hunting is popular in this Scenic Reserve, deer and pig numbers are generally low to moderate. There was a long running control programme to reduce goats to zero density on the western side of State Highway 2, and there is ongoing control on the eastern side, so if you see goats in these areas please shoot and/or advise DOC Biodiversity staff in the Ōpōtiki office of the location, number and colour of the goats seen. Terrain is characterised by steep gullies up to the ridges, dense understory and numerous small streams. 

Access

There are a number of access points along State Highway 2 in the Waioeka Gorge south of Ōpōtiki. You must cross the Waioeka River to access some western parts of this area, there are three bridges that will give you access along State Highway 2, the historic Taranga bridge, a bridge at Oponae, and Wairata, approximately 25, 35 and 40 kilometres south of Ōpōtiki respectively. 

Landholders

The majority of Waioeka Gorge Scenic Reserve is surrounded by public land, namely the Waioeka and Urutawa Conservation Areas.  Some private land is located in the centre of this Scenic Reserve; you must obtain landowner permission before crossing any parcel of private land.

Maps

NZTopo50 Whakatāne BE40, Ōpōtiki BE41, Oponae BF41.

Huts

There are no public huts within this Scenic Reserve.

Know before you go

Dogs

To take dogs into this area get authorisation from the Gisborne DOC Office. To take dogs across private property you must get permission from the landowner.